Mastering delegation: how letting go grows your business
It’s easy to fall into the trap of doing everything yourself. From quoting and client meetings to chasing invoices, wearing all the hats might feel necessary, but it’s not sustainable. Delegation isn’t just about handing over tasks; it’s a strategic move that frees up your time, empowers your team and positions your business for long-term growth.
Why delegation matters
If you’re getting bogged down in day-to-day admin, it’s hard to focus on big-picture strategy and long-term planning. Delegating lets you step out of the trenches and into the driver’s seat of your business. It helps eliminate bottlenecks and creates time efficiencies by matching the right tasks with the right people—those with the skills and personality type to do the job well.
It also protects your wellbeing. Sharing responsibility helps prevent burnout and supports a healthier work-life balance—something every business owner deserves. The added bonus? With more people able to take on responsibility, your business becomes better positioned for growth, scalability and long-term success.
The benefits for your team
Delegation builds trust. When you give your team ownership of tasks, it encourages them to step up, collaborate and contribute more meaningfully. It also creates valuable opportunities to grow their skills and experience and take on new challenges.
Often, someone with the right skillset may spot ways to improve a task or system that you hadn't considered. Delegating can lead to smarter, more efficient processes across the business. And when your team feels trusted, supported and challenged, they’re more likely to stay motivated, loyal and engaged.
Tips for effective delegation
Define the task clearly: Be specific about what needs to be done and by when. Provide systems or processes to follow and set clear expectations.
Match the person to the task: Make sure they have the skills and knowledge needed—or the willingness and ability to learn. Tools like DISC profiling can help match people with tasks that suit their strengths and working style.
Provide training and support: Check in regularly, especially early on, to answer questions and make sure everything’s on track.
Build feedback loops: Create space for open communication. Encourage questions, ideas and suggestions for improvement. Delegation works best when it’s a two-way conversation.
Consider outsourcing
Not every task needs to be handled in-house. Outsourcing specialist roles—like bookkeeping, marketing or HR and recruitment—can save time and ensure critical business functions are handled by experts. It’s a smart way to stay focused on what you do best.
When done well, delegation is a game-changer. It strengthens your business, builds a capable and confident team, and allows you to lead with clarity and purpose. And best of all, you won’t have to wear all the hats—just the ones that matter most.
Amanda is a regular contributor to NZCB's InHouse magazine
This article featured in the June 2025 issue.
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