What should be included when delegating job duties?

• A. Only responsibility
• B. Only authority
• C. Responsibility and support
• D. Responsibility and authority

Answer: (D)

When delegating job duties, it is crucial to include both responsibility and authority in order to empower the person to whom the duties are assigned. Responsibility involves the obligation to perform a task or duty, while authority grants the individual the power to make decisions and take actions necessary to accomplish the assigned tasks effectively.

By providing responsibility, you ensure that the individual understands what is expected of them and what goals they need to achieve. Providing authority allows them to act on those responsibilities, make choices, and exercise control over the required tasks. This combination fosters accountability and promotes efficient task completion, as the person delegated has the knowledge of what is expected and the means to fulfill those expectations.

In contrast, focusing solely on responsibility without proper authority can lead to frustration and inefficiency, as the individual may know what needs to be done but lack the power to act. Similarly, granting authority without responsibility can create a lack of accountability, as the individual may feel empowered yet unclear about what tasks they need to accomplish. Therefore, integrating both elements ensures a clear understanding of roles and facilitates effective task management.