When Delegation Misfires

Take a look at the picture below. Now that you’ve stopped laughing, let’s think about why this happened.

This photo was circulating on social networks and online photo sites a few weeks ago. Naturally, it did—it’s a national brand. I assume that someone, probably earning minimum wage, was given the job of “putting a sign up.” This person likely had enough skills to create something on the computer.

How often do we see tasks like this given to the most junior team member without any oversight, and then we’re surprised by the outcome? I see it all the time in social media, where interns seem to manage Twitter and Facebook accounts. It’s just social media, right? And young people know all about that stuff.

When I first started working, I was told the most important person in the building was the receptionist. This puzzled me because I assumed the Managing Director held that title. But I was assured this was not the case.

The point was that the receptionist was the first point of contact for anyone visiting or calling our office. She had the power to either impress or disappoint every caller, making her the most important person in the building.

When we hand out seemingly minor tasks because we don’t want to bother or think they are beneath us, are we really doing ourselves any favors?

I’m not saying don’t delegate. But think carefully about tasks that can significantly impact your business, especially in a negative way. Whether it’s copywriting for a local ad, a sign for the shop window, or your Twitter account, these tasks can turn into a PR disaster or, at the very least, an embarrassment.

So, next time you consider passing off a simple task, think about how it might turn out. And then consider how much oversight you should provide to ensure it’s done right.

How do you handle the little jobs in your business?