When have you made a mistake delegating tasks to your team members?

How to Answer
1st Answer Example
2nd Answer Example

Being able to delegate to your team correctly is a critical part of successful management. Talk to the interviewer about a time that you have appointed in error. Be sure to discuss how you repaired the mistake.

"Earlier in my career I would delegate tasks at random, thinking that everyone had the skills to complete any company-related task. I found that these employees would procrastinate on these tasks if they seemed overwhelming or if they did not understand them. After a bit of time, and some learning, I began to delegate based on personality type and skill-set. This method proved to be much more effective, and I follow this delegation style to this day."

"I am usually cautious when delegating tasks because putting the wrong person in the wrong function can be a dangerous, and expensive, mistake. A few years ago I put an employee on the incorrect piece of machinery, thinking that he was certified in operating that bit of equipment. I am now sure to double check credentials before delegating."

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How to Answer: When have you made a mistake delegating tasks to your team members?

Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Metals and Mining job interview.

25. When have you made a mistake delegating tasks to your team members?

How to Answer

Being able to delegate to your team correctly is a critical part of successful management. Talk to the interviewer about a time that you have appointed in error. Be sure to discuss how you repaired the mistake.

1st Answer Example

"Earlier in my career I would delegate tasks at random, thinking that everyone had the skills to complete any company-related task. I found that these employees would procrastinate on these tasks if they seemed overwhelming or if they did not understand them. After a bit of time, and some learning, I began to delegate based on personality type and skill-set. This method proved to be much more effective, and I follow this delegation style to this day."

2nd Answer Example

"I am usually cautious when delegating tasks because putting the wrong person in the wrong function can be a dangerous, and expensive, mistake. A few years ago I put an employee on the incorrect piece of machinery, thinking that he was certified in operating that bit of equipment. I am now sure to double check credentials before delegating."

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