Navigating a Micromanaging Manager: Practical Tips To Help You Work Better Together
We’ve all been there. When your manager starts hovering over your shoulder, constantly questioning your decisions, and micromanaging every aspect of your work, it can quickly become a source of frustration and demotivation. Micromanagement not only undermines your autonomy but can also negatively impact your productivity and job satisfaction. It can make us feel like we can never do anything right, and when taken personally, can create feelings of despair and hopelessness.
Why does your manager micromanage?
A micromanaging manager is often driven by a deep-seated need for control, a lack of trust in their team's abilities, or an overwhelming fear of failure. They may constantly request updates, scrutinize every detail of your work, and second-guess your decisions, ultimately creating an environment of tension and mistrust. This behaviour can leave you feeling demoralized, stifled, and unable to take ownership of your work.
One important thing to remember is that it's easy to take our manager’s constant oversight and need for control as a personal criticism of our competence or performance. However, this behavior rarely has anything to do with us as employees. More often than not, it stems from deep-seated insecurities or past experiences that have shaped their management style.
Their lack of trust is not a judgment on our abilities or worth.
It's a reflection of their own limiting beliefs and struggles to let go of control. Read on for actionable tips that you can use to improve how you can work together in a way that feels good for both of you.
Actionable Tips to Address a Micromanaging Manager
1. Open and Transparent Communication:
The first step in addressing a micromanaging manager is to initiate an open and honest conversation. Schedule a one-on-one meeting and approach the discussion with empathy and understanding. Explain how their micromanagement style is impacting your work and productivity, and ask for their perspective on the situation. Listen actively and seek to understand their motivations and concerns.
2. Establish Clear Expectations and Boundaries:
Once you've had an open discussion, work together to establish clear expectations and boundaries. Agree on specific milestones or checkpoints where you'll provide updates, and set boundaries around the level of detail and frequency of communication. This will help your boss feel more comfortable giving you the autonomy you need, while still ensuring they're kept informed.
3. Demonstrate Competence and Ownership:
As a busy professional, you undoubtedly have a wealth of knowledge and expertise in your field. Take the initiative to showcase your competence and ownership of your work. Provide regular updates on your progress, highlighting your successes and the steps you've taken to overcome challenges. This will help build trust and confidence in your abilities, reducing their need to micromanage.
Addressing a micromanaging boss requires patience, diplomacy, and a willingness to collaborate. By fostering open communication, setting clear boundaries, and demonstrating your competence, you can navigate this challenging situation while maintaining a positive and productive working relationship. You can do this!
