A boss that micromanages their team may mean well, but it most frequently comes across as controlling and a lack of trust in workers’ ability to do their jobs. As a result, productivity and engagement can suffer. If you have a micromanaging boss, there are a few steps you can take to make the situation more tolerable:
- Work to build trust. Let them see what you’re doing and the results you’re achieving. Seek their input on how things could be done differently or better. Explain your reasons for doing things the way you do. Share and listen.
- Calm them down. Try to understand what may calm an anxious, worried person who has a lot of their shoulders and is concerned about the possibility of errors or problems. Remind them of how your team is following specific protocols and procedures. Tell them how you’re preparing for a survey or implementing quality improvement efforts.
- Be proactive. Let the boss know how you’re planning to tackle projects ahead of time. Give them a detailed outline of reports, studies, etc. Remind them that you’re on top of the projects, tasks, and solutions they’re most concerned about.
