Dealing with Micromanagement

The Awareness Advantage Podcast

Each week Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji facilitate authentic conversations with leaders just like you to help you discover what it takes from being a manager who is good at getting stuff done to being a great leader who inspires others to do their best.

Micromanagement is a common problem in many workplaces. It can be frustrating and demotivating for employees, as well as detrimental to productivity and overall company culture. In this article, we will explore some strategies for dealing with micromanagement and creating a more positive work environment.

1. Communicate with your manager
   One of the first steps to dealing with micromanagement is to communicate with your manager. It is important to be respectful and professional, but also assertive in expressing your concerns. Let your manager know how their micromanagement is impacting your work and how it makes you feel. Use specific examples and be prepared to offer suggestions for how things could be done differently.
2. Build trust
   Micromanagement often stems from a lack of trust between the manager and the employee. Building trust can be a long process, but it is essential for creating a more positive work environment. Be reliable and consistent in your work, communicate openly and honestly with your manager, and follow through on your commitments.
3. Clarify expectations
   Often, micromanagers feel the need to control every aspect of a project because they are uncertain about what is expected of them or their team. To combat this, it is important to clarify expectations upfront. Make sure you understand your manager's goals and priorities, as well as your role and responsibilities. Agree on specific milestones and deadlines, and communicate regularly on progress.
4. Take initiative
   Micromanagers often feel the need to be in control because they are not confident in their team's abilities. To counteract this, take the initiative and demonstrate your competence. Look for opportunities to take on additional responsibilities, suggest new ideas, and take ownership of your work. By demonstrating your competence and taking the initiative, you can build trust and reduce the need for micromanagement.
5. Focus on results
   Ultimately, the most important thing is achieving results. Focus on delivering high-quality work and meeting your goals, rather than worrying about the details of how you get there. If you can consistently deliver results, your manager will be more likely to trust you and give you more autonomy.

We explore this and more in our Awareness Advantage podcast. Check out our episodes, and go from being a good manager--to a great leader!

Learn the strategies used by experts and build your own self-awareness with best selling authors, speakers and business coaches--Kevin McCarthy and Likky Lavji.