Is Your Boss Watching You Closely at Work?

There are times when your boss checks in frequently to see what’s going on and check the progress of your work. Sometimes, it feels like your ideas are not taken into consideration, and your supervisor feels uncomfortable when he allows you to do things on your own. Most experts call it micromanagement. It’s not always a bad thing especially when you are new to a task or a job.

Micromanagers intervene too often in their subordinates’ activities. Imagine working on a project, trying your best to get everything right, only to have your boss constantly telling you what to do, even for the smallest things. It’s frustrating and can make you doubt your abilities. The boss may have clear intentions to guide you, but it can make the job more stressful. It’s like he doesn’t trust you to do your job well. Your freedom to make some work decision is taken away, and you feel you need approval for every little thing.

The impact of micromanagement goes beyond just you. It affects the whole team and even the organisation. According to a Monster Poll, 73% of workers consider micromanagement the biggest workplace ‘red flag’, and 46% identify it as a reason they would leave their job. Instead of a lively and creative workplace, there’s a feeling of fear and everyone just does what they’re told. Projects take longer, and the organisation struggles because people aren’t free to use their skills and ideas. So, what do you do when you are micromanaged?

Strategies for Dealing with a Micromanaging Boss

1. Open Communication

Clear communication solves a lot of problems. Initiate a candid conversation with your boss. Politely tell when micromanagement impedes your ability to focus or deliver your best work.

Share specific examples where increased independence led to improved outcomes. Express your dedication to your work and your desire for more autonomy. Help your boss understand why you need some space at certain points in your work.

2. Offer Solutions

Your supervisor may have a lot on his plate, so propose some solutions before you see him. Go prepared with potential solutions. It shows your commitment and dedication to solving the problem. This proactive approach shows that you have invested in finding mutually beneficial resolutions that can easily convince him to change his ways.

3. Proactive Updates

Anticipate your boss’s need for information by providing regular updates on your progress. Give him the necessary information on your work activities to build trust and reduce the urge to micromanage.

4. Develop Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence is highly needed to succeed in the workplace. Your boss’ personality is different from yours, which may cause some conflicts. Emotional intelligence helps you to be aware of your emotions and assess situations objectively. Cultivate emotional intelligence to navigate challenging interpersonal dynamics. Remain composed, empathetic, and solution-oriented when addressing concerns with your boss.

5. Seek Feedback

Proactively seek feedback on your work. By demonstrating your commitment to improvement and excellence, you may alleviate concerns that drive micromanagement.

6. Build Trust Gradually

Understand that trust takes time to develop. Consistently deliver high-quality work and demonstrate reliability to gradually build trust and reduce the need for micromanagement.

Dealing with a micromanaging boss can be challenging, but by employing these strategies, employees can empower themselves to navigate the situation effectively. Remember, the goal is not to challenge authority but to foster a collaborative and trusting work relationship.