How To Delegate Effectively

1. Delegate to someone who is naturally responsible and accountable.

Anything less and you've got a problem.

2. Link performance to salary.

Make the task/accountability that you're delegating a requirement for the person to get paid.

3. Identify what the signs/measures of failure are.

This way, you can inform the person, in advance, what isn't acceptable, and what you'll be "looking out for...." This works.

4. Identify the measurable of the job/task/item.

Then, you'll both know if the job is getting done.

5. Develop an iron-clad reporting system.

A daily checklist, a weekly report, a monthly financial statement, a weekly meeting. Whatever it takes.

6. Install an oversight process.

Have someone else that you trust to check in/check up on the employees performance, results, accuracy, honesty.

7. Identify consequences for inadequate performance, in advance.

This way, no surprises and whatever actions you take are not punitive or arbitrary.

8. Double-check the work yourself from time to time.

This means to review the work, chat with customers, get outside verification.

9. Build in a system of continuous improvement of the delegated task/accountability.

This keeps the employee focused on creating new and better ways of doing what you need.

10. Customize a reward/incentive package, if appropriate.

Everyone has their own unique way to be motivated. Make sure that you understand theirs and create something around that, not around your own way. But don't be too generous -- that usually backfires. Remember, you're their employer, not their friend or business partner. Utilize the Cornerstone OnDemand Performance management system and get the maximum capability out of all your employees.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ten Keys To Successful Negotiation

Hardly a day passes that we are not involved in some type of negotiation.
This negotiation may be as simple as attempting to convince a friend to see the movie we choose or as complicated as negotiating a percentage of a business offering or mediating a labor dispute. At any rate, effective negotiation is an art...one that requires preparation and practice in order to be successful. Consider these ten tips for preparing for negotiation and improve your odds for a win-win resolution.

1. Know what you REALLY want.
Many people enter negotiation only to find they did not have a clear
desired outcome defined in their own mind. Write down your desired
outcome as concisely as possible and use this outcome as the center
point of your preparation.

2. Know your opposition.
Learn as much as possible about who you are negotiating with, what they want, their strengths and weaknesses, and their likes and dislikes.

3. Consider the impact of timing and method of negotiation.
Whenever possible, negotiate face to face. It is easier to say NO over the telephone and in writing. Initiate the negotiation process so that you have the advantage of preparation and timing.

4. Prepare your presentation...point by point.
Outline your presentation carefully. Place emphasis on benefits to the
other party.

5. Anticipate reactions, objections and responses.
If possible, brainstorm with others who have had similar negotiations
to get a jump on what to expect. For each objection or reaction, list
positive responses, alternatives and examples that conteract the negatives. 

6. Structure your presentation to ensure agreement on one or two points at the beginning of the negotiation.
For example, "I think we can agree right away that we have a problem and that we both/all want to resolve it." Initial agreement on minor issues or points early on in the negotiation process sets a positive atmosphere for agreement in later, more significant stages.

7. Determine paybacks and consequences for each party in the negotiation.
A clear understanding of paybacks and consequences makes it easier to determine when and how to make concessions and when and how to stick to your demands/requests. 

8. Prepare options rather than ultimatums.
An ultimatum should be used only as a last resort when you are sure you can back it up and the other party knows you can back it up. Even then, in virtually every negotiation there are options and alternatives that reduce defensiveness and lead to positive resolution for all parties. 

9. Get comfortable with silence.
Many negotiators feel compelled to jump in with arguments and comments each time there is a pause in the interaction. Practice withholding comments and responses. Silence can be a very powerful negotiation tool. 

10. Close all negotiations by clearly outlining agreement.
When agreement or conclusions have been reached and you are ready to end your negotiation, review the agreement that has been reached. Then, end your negotiation on a positive note...commending those involved and emphasizing the progress made.