They say
“I don’t know how to do that.”
Your response
“Not knowing how is something we can address. Tell me which part is unfamiliar. We’ll agree on the guidance or training you need, but the task will remain with you.”
First, check this
Did you confirm that the employee had the knowledge, context, and support needed before assigning the task?
Why this works
A real skill gap calls for support, not shame or immediate withdrawal of the assignment. Asking which part is unfamiliar shows whether the employee needs instruction, an example, practice, or simply clarification. Keeping ownership with the employee prevents the manager from turning every request for help into reverse delegation. The next page addresses a different obstacle: responsibility without the authority needed to act.
Don’t say
“Just figure it out—that’s what I’m paying you for.”