Introduction
This paper will attempt to show what skills are necessary for effective delegation, and how the managers of the author's organization uses delegation in his or her management responsibilities. The paper will also attempt to show how delegation could be used more effectively within the four functions of management in that same organization. Through delegation managers combine task responsibilities and the authority needed to carry out tasks in the organization. The author will also discuss some advantages of delegation as well as the issue of poor delegation.
Delegation
What is delegation? According to Bateman, delegation "is the assignment of authority and responsibility to a subordinate at a lower level." (Bateman et al, 2004). By delegating to others this frees up the manager to devote more energy to higher-level activities. These activities can be controlling and leading. "Delegation is perhaps the most fundamental feature of management, because it entails getting work done through others." (Bateman et al, 2004).
Delegation In A County Jail
In a county jail setting there are several types of managers. These are the jail administrator, the assistant administrator, the county commissioners, the sheriff and his deputies as well as the officers from the local police departments. The management in a county jail setting uses delegation in several ways. One such way occurs when an officer or deputy brings in an inmate for a crime he or she have committed. The officer then delegates the responsibility of getting that inmate to court to the jailer, depending on the seriousness of the crime. Another way is for management to give ...