Team Trenkwalder
21 days ago
•3 min read
Delegate more effectively and ask for help:
When and how to effectively request support at work
If you want to be successful in your professional life, you can't do everything on your own. Effective delegation and targeted requests for support are crucial skills for working on projects efficiently, reducing stress and advancing your career in the long term. Many professionals find it difficult to delegate tasks or ask for help – out of concern that they will appear incompetent or lose control. But the opposite is true: those who know when and how to ask for support come across as professional, organised and team-oriented.
In this article, you will learn how to delegate properly, when it makes sense to ask for help and how this can increase your performance at work.
Why delegating and asking for help is important
In everyday working life, there are always phases when the volume of tasks, responsibility or deadlines are high. Anyone who wants to do everything on their own in such situations risks overload and mistakes. Effective delegation helps to make optimal use of resources, promotes teamwork and gives you the opportunity to concentrate on your core tasks. Furthermore, the ability to ask for help is a sign of self-confidence and reflective ability – important factors for long-term career success.
When to delegate or ask for help
Not every task is suitable for delegation, and not every situation requires support. A few rules of thumb can help you make the decision:
High priority & core tasks: Tasks that are strategically important or require your expertise should be done by you.
Routine tasks: You can hand over tasks that are recurring but not very strategic.
Complex tasks without sufficient resources: If you lack specialist knowledge, time or tools, it makes sense to ask for support.
Overload: If the workload exceeds your capacity, delegate or seek advice in order to maintain quality and meet deadlines.
How to delegate tasks effectively
1. Define clear goals and expectations
Before you hand over tasks, think carefully about what the goal is and what results you expect. Communicate this clearly and comprehensibly.
2. Choose the right person
Choose someone who has the necessary skills or who can use the task as a learning opportunity. A realistic assessment of competencies prevents frustration on both sides.
3. Transfer responsibility, don't lose control
Give the other person enough leeway and trust to work on the task independently. Set clear deadlines and offer support if needed.
4. Give feedback
After the task is completed, feedback is important. It promotes further development, motivation and provides clarity about expectations in future projects.
How to ask for help without showing uncertainty
Ask directly and specifically: Formulate your request precisely: What exactly do you need help with? By when? What information is already available?
Provide a reason: Briefly explain why you need help, e.g. time pressure, lack of expertise or parallel projects. This signals professionalism and the ability to reflect.
Show gratitude: A simple thank you is motivating and shows appreciation for the work of others.
Benefits for your career
Learning to delegate tasks sensibly and ask for support not only gives you more time and a better overview, but also strengthens teamwork. At the same time, this ability signals a sense of responsibility and self-management – qualities that have a positive impact on your career.
In addition, you can set your own priorities better, reduce stress and ensure your long-term performance – an important factor for sustainable career success.
Conclusion: Delegating and asking for help as a career booster
Delegation and requests for help are not weaknesses, but professional tools that make your everyday work easier and promote your career. Those who know when and how to delegate tasks or ask for support work more efficiently, strengthen team spirit and create space for strategic tasks.
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