Supervisory
Delegation
Definition
Delegation is a supervisor assigning a task, with the authority needed to complete it, to a team member while the supervisor stays accountable for the result.
How do you delegate well?
- Choose the right task and the right person for it.
- Explain the outcome, deadline and limits of authority.
- Give the resources, such as a standard operating procedure.
- Agree check-in points, then let the person do the work.
- Review the result and give feedback.
See the delegation guide for new supervisors.
Why does delegation matter for supervisors?
It frees the supervisor for planning and develops the team's skills. The Supervisory Work Planning, Delegation and Team Coordination course is part of the Certified Supervisor.
Where can you go next?
Courses, checks and reading on the same work.- CourseSupervisory Work Planning, Delegation & Team Coordination
- CourseTeam Coaching & Development for Supervisors
- CertificationCertified Supervisor (CSV)
- Free online assessmentHow ready are you to lead a team? Free supervisor readiness check
- GuideHow should a new supervisor delegate?
- Glossary termStandard operating procedure (SOP)
- Glossary termRoot cause analysis (RCA)
Which sources does this page use?
This page states no statutory figures, so it cites no official source.
Updated 20 October 2026. General information from the Certifyd team, not legal, tax or safety advice for your workplace.