Want to get ahead?

Try delegating. Most new managers either hate to delegate or really hate to delegate. They think this way because of one of two things:
1.     If I don't do it, it won't get done or done right.
2.     If someone else does it, then I won't get credit for having done it.

Both are totally wrong.

First, you've got to delegate. You simply cannot get everything done if you don't delegate. It is a matter of being productive. Your general manager has to delegate, your regional manager delegates even more. The higher you go in the food chain (pun intended), the more you must delegate - and that includes you.

Second, all the worry about not getting credit is unfounded. Believe it or not, your manager is just interested in the results. As long as the job, project, or task gets done, then you will get all the credit for it, no matter who really does it. The good thing about this is that you get a chance to also give your employees that actually did the job credit, which will make them feel worthy, recognized, and trusted.

Third, delegation is how you will develop your employees. You will develop your employees exactly like your general manager is developing you and the other assistant managers. Give your employees the opportunity to prove themselves. You will be surprised at how many are willing and who are motivated to accept more responsibility. It is up to you to give them the chance. You'll find it is one of the most satisfying parts of your job as manager.

Fourth, when you get bogged down in detail stuff, you're not helping the restaurant out as a whole. Oh, you might feel pretty good about taking the trash out yourself, or changing the toilet paper, but what's happening to the rest of the restaurant while you are doing "stuff" that you could and should have delegated? Going to hell, probably, and for no good reason.

What would you say if there was an incident that happened at that exact time? Could people find you in time to help the situation? How would you justify changing the toilet paper? That's right, you couldn't. Good managers do not allow themselves to be roped into activities that tie them down so they will be incapable of managing the restaurant.

Once you understand delegation and start to incorporate it into your daily management routine, you'll find your own efficiency and productivity takes a quantum leap. Fasten your seatbelts ladies and gentlemen, we have lift off.