Giving Back The ‘Monkey’
“People don’t need to be managed; they need to be unleashed.” This insightful truth from Richard Florida, Professor of Urban Theory, holds remarkable relevance in today’s dynamic corporate environment. Decades ago, William Oncken’s seminal article “Management Time: Who’s Got the Monkey?” introduced an interesting metaphor for understanding delegation—comparing employee dilemmas to monkeys that inadvertently end up on managers’ shoulders when they take on problem-solving themselves.
Originally published in the Harvard Business Review in 1974, Oncken’s piece was pivotal in shaping the conversation around time management through delegation, or “giving back the monkey.” However, it didn’t delve into empowering employees to cultivate their own insights—a critical aspect of modern leadership.
In a 1999 commentary on Oncken’s work, leadership expert Steven R. Covey reflected on the era’s shift from the waning “command and control” management style to the thriving concept of “empowerment” as organizations navigated fiercely competitive global markets. Yet, vestiges of command and control persist, underscoring the challenge leaders face in truly empowering their teams.
Empowerment involves relinquishing control, allowing team members to navigate their own thought processes—a task requiring courage and imagination from leaders. This developmental strategy’s success hinges on open dialogue and a foundation of trust. The most effective way to develop people and cultivate empowerment is through coaching conversations, where individuals are encouraged to engage in their own problem-solving, under the guidance of a leader who acts more as a facilitator than an authoritarian figure.
In my experience as a leadership coach, I’ve observed a consistent truth: while individuals value guidance and advice, they are most enriched by the opportunity to generate their own ideas. A truly efficient manager prioritizes helping their staff think critically and independently, thereby fostering insight and facilitating wiser decision-making.
As leaders, we must transition from being the sole problem-solvers to becoming architects of an environment where innovation thrives. Equipping your team with the skills and confidence to handle their own challenges not only develops their capabilities but also optimizes the use of a leader’s time and talents—focusing on strategy and growth rather than micromanagement.
Have you experienced the transformative power of empowering your team through effective delegation? How has this approach impacted your leadership style and your team’s performance? I invite you to share your insights and experiences as we explore the art of unlocking potential through leadership excellence.
Creator of the KASHBOX: Knowledge, Attitude, Skills, Habits
Helping You Realize Your Potential
I help people discover their potential, expand and develop the skills and attitudes necessary to achieve a higher degree of personal and professional success and create a plan that enables them to balance the profit motives of their business with the personal motives of their lives.
