The importance of clarity

In an earlier article, I explained that as a Chief of Everything (COE), it is important to delegate tasks effectively in order to manage your workload and ensure that everything gets done.

However, delegation is not just about handing off tasks to others – it is also about providing clear instructions and expectations so that the tasks are completed successfully. In this article, I detailed further the importance of providing clear instructions, and provide a few helpful hints.

Here are some reasons why providing clear instructions and expectations is essential when delegating tasks as a COE:

It helps the person you are delegating to understand exactly what is expected of them: By providing clear instructions and expectations, you can help the person you are delegating to understand exactly what is expected of them in terms of the task at hand. This includes the scope of the task, any deadlines or milestones, and any resources or support they may need.

It minimizes misunderstandings and errors: By providing detailed instructions and expectations, you can help to minimize misunderstandings and reduce the risk of errors or delays. This can help ensure that the task is completed effectively and efficiently, and can save time and effort in the long run.

It enables the person you are delegating to be proactive: When you provide clear instructions and expectations, it enables the person you are delegating to to be proactive in completing the task. They can anticipate any potential issues or challenges and take steps to address them, rather than waiting for you to provide guidance or clarification.

It helps to build trust and credibility: Providing clear instructions and expectations can help to build trust and credibility with the person you are delegating to. It demonstrates that you have confidence in their abilities and are willing to rely on them to complete tasks effectively.

So, how can you provide clear instructions and expectations when delegating tasks as a COE? Here are a few tips:

Be specific: Be as specific as possible when providing instructions and expectations for a task. Include details on the scope of the task, any deadlines or milestones, and any resources or support that may be needed.

Use clear language: Use clear and concise language when communicating instructions and expectations. Avoid using jargon or technical terms that may be confusing, and try to break down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps.

Provide resources and support: In addition to providing instructions, consider providing any necessary resources or support to help the person you are delegating to complete the task effectively. This could include access to relevant documents or tools, or guidance on how to use them.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that the tasks you delegate are completed successfully and to your satisfaction. Providing clear instructions and expectations can help you manage your workload more effectively and build trust and credibility with the people you delegate to.