by Mindtools
At first glance, delegation seems straightforward: a manager assigns a task, frees up time, and creates a development opportunity for their team. But new insights from Mindtools’ research show it’s rarely that simple.
In a recent article for Training Industry, our Head of Research and Insights, Dr. Anna Barnett, explores the hidden psychology that shapes the way managers delegate. Sometimes decisions can be influenced by subtle fears and motivations, such as the desire to protect reputation, avoid risk, or hold on to control.
This matters, because when delegation becomes skewed by unconscious drivers, the impact on performance, trust and team morale can be significant. For example:
- Over-delegation vs. under-delegation. Managers may pass on the toughest jobs but cling to easier ones, creating a mismatch between capability and responsibility.
- Bias and shortcuts. Familiarity or assumptions about competence can mean some team members are overloaded while others miss out on growth opportunities.
- Trust erosion. When tasks aren’t distributed fairly, resentment builds, confidence dips, and team dynamics quietly weaken.
The good news is that these patterns aren’t fixed. With the right support, managers can learn to recognize the unconscious factors influencing their choices. This will help them reframe delegation as a tool for development and inclusion, and build fairer, more resilient teams.
Delegation is more than a productivity tactic. Done thoughtfully, it’s a powerful lever for learning, culture and long-term success. As Anna highlights, this isn’t about reinventing delegation – it’s about re-examining it.
You can read the full article on Training Industry here: Using the Psychology of Delegation to Improve Team Outcomes.
At Mindtools, we’re proud to see our experts contributing to respected industry platforms, helping to shape conversations that matter to L&D and HR professionals.
If you’d like to explore how we can help your managers develop the skills to delegate with confidence and fairness, our experts are here for a no-obligation conversation.
