What does the term "delegation" refer to in leadership?

The term "delegation" in leadership specifically refers to assigning tasks and authority to subordinates. This process is crucial as it enables leaders to distribute the workload more effectively, empower team members, and develop their skills. By delegating tasks, a leader not only enhances the efficiency of the team but also fosters an environment of trust and responsibility.

Delegation allows leaders to focus on higher-priority tasks while empowering subordinates to take ownership of specific responsibilities. It encourages engagement and can lead to improved morale and productivity within the team. By entrusting tasks to others, leaders can facilitate professional growth in their subordinates, guiding them to become more competent and confident in their roles.

In contrast, seeking approval from superiors typically does not embody the essence of delegation, as it involves a more hierarchical approach rather than empowering subordinates. Taking on all responsibilities alone contradicts the principle of delegation, as effective leadership rests on leveraging the strengths and capabilities of the entire team. While encouraging subordinates to work independently involves elements of delegation, it doesn’t capture the full scope of assigning both tasks and the associated authority that delegation encompasses.