The 5 levels of DELEGATION.... thought these were good (not mine, BTW).

As a leader, whenever you delegate a task, you need to make it clear what level of authority you are conferring to others:

• Level 1: Do exactly what I have asked you to do. Don’t deviate from my instructions. I have already researched the options and determined what I want you to do.
• Level 2: Research the topic and report back. We will discuss it, and then I will make the decision and tell you what I want you to do.
• Level 3: Research the topic, outline the options, and make a recommendation. Give me the pros and cons of each option, but tell me what you think we should do. If I agree with your decision, I will authorize you to move forward.
• Level 4: Make a decision and then tell me what you did. I trust you to do the research, make the best decision you can, and then keep me in the loop. I don’t want to be surprised by someone else.
• Level 5: Make whatever decision you think is best. No need to report back. I trust you completely. I know you will follow through. You have my full support.

Question: As a leader, are you making it clear what level of authority you are conferring when you delegate a task?