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Delegate to Improve Relationships

Want to increase employee satisfaction? Then get busy delegating!

Delegation is a clear act of trust if handled effectively. That show of trust is also a show of support. And sometimes showing an employee you support him can turn a poor relationship into a better one, and a good relationship into a great one.

Often it is mistrust that separates us from one another. But entire communities can be transformed when we let down our defenses and show a little faith in one another. The same can be true in leading employees—and delegation can provide an excellent opportunity.

But how do you get started, particularly with someone in which you have limited confidence? As author and self-help guru Stephen Covey says, start from a point of agreement. With an employee, it can be one strength you both agree the employee demonstrates.

Select a limited task or decision that calls for that strength and delegate it to the employee. Then build from there, recognizing and rewarding the employee each time a new task is completed to your expectations.