Effective delegation is a hard skill for many pastors to learn.  After years of doing all of the planning and organizing themselves, some do not feel that anyone could possibly perform the task as well as they could.  To be an effective leader the pastor must be able to delegate to the laity in a way that motivates them by giving them both an opportunity to serve and control over their task.  Under ideal circumstances, effective delegation begins with involving them in the setting of goals and development of the plan.  Clear communication of goals and increased motivation are the signs of effective delegation.

Volunteers have different levels of available energy and are willing to give more or less of that energy.  Often, volunteering represents a change of pace for people who volunteer.  Some want tasks to do that are clearly spelled out with very little responsibilities.  Others want tasks that require more energy and initiative.  Measuring the energy level required by various jobs and knowing more about the energy and responsibility level of volunteers keeps them happy and satisfied.