When awaiting research results that you’ve delegated to someone, what should you do next?

The most effective action to take while awaiting research results that you’ve delegated is to schedule a task reminder for yourself about the research. This approach ensures that you remain proactive and engaged in the project's progress. By setting a reminder, you create a structured follow-up mechanism, which helps you to check in with the person you delegated the task to at an appropriate time, ensuring the project remains on track and does not fall through the cracks.

This strategy showcases your commitment to effective management and helps maintain open lines of communication with your team, as it prompts you to reconnect and inquire about the status of the project. It also allows you to manage your time efficiently by keeping visibility on tasks that require attention, rather than relying on memory alone.

Other options may lead to disorganization or lack of follow-through. For instance, putting the project file at the bottom of your inbox may result in overlooking it and missing important updates. Handing over the entire project file to the other person could create confusion regarding your role and responsibilities in overseeing the project. Filing the project away might suggest that you'll address it later, but it risks losing track of timelines and updates while waiting on the delegated task.