Delegation vs. Abdication

Written By David Schwall

Why It Matters
Every manager hears they need to delegate. But many confuse it with abdication—completely letting go without providing clarity, context, or support. Delegation is a skill. Abdication is avoidance.

The Difference

  • Delegation means handing off responsibility with authority, guidance, and trust—but maintaining accountability.

  • Abdication means disappearing and expecting results, often without direction, support, or feedback.

Real-World Example
A marketing director once handed off a campaign to a junior team member without aligning on goals or timelines. When results didn’t meet expectations, the blame game started. That wasn’t delegation—it was abdication.

How to Get It Right

  • Be clear about the what and the why.

  • Define success upfront.

  • Check in—but don’t hover.

  • Stay accessible.

  • Share the credit; own the risk.

What Most Managers Overlook
Delegation is not just about offloading tasks—it’s about developing people. Do it right, and you create ownership. Do it wrong, and you create confusion, resentment, and missed goals.

David Schwall https://www.boundlessnewleaders.com
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