IOSH Managing Safely Practice Test

What can leaders do to ensure accountability remains intact during delegation?

1. Clearly define expectations and outcomes

2. Allow complete independence of the team

3. Refrain from providing any guidance

4. Transfer their accountability to subordinates

The correct answer is: Clearly define expectations and outcomes

To ensure accountability remains intact during delegation, clearly defining expectations and outcomes is essential. This approach establishes a mutual understanding between leaders and their team members regarding what is expected in terms of performance, quality of work, and specific results to be achieved. By articulating these expectations, leaders create a framework that guides the team and provides them with clear goals to work towards. This not only facilitates better communication but also holds team members responsible for their contributions. When expectations are explicitly stated, team members are more likely to feel accountable, as they know what they need to deliver. It also allows for a structured approach to feedback and evaluation, enabling leaders to assess progress effectively. This ensures that while team members may have autonomy in how they achieve their tasks, they are still aligned with the overall objectives and standards set by the organization. On the other hand, options that suggest allowing complete independence, refraining from guidance, or transferring accountability to subordinates can lead to confusion and a lack of direction. Without clear expectations, team members may struggle to understand their responsibilities, which can result in accountability being diluted.