How to Deal with a Micromanager

Who’s had a micromanaging boss? 🙈 it’s the worst! ✨

👎🏼 Micromanaging is a result of a bad boss, not a bad employee. Learning how to delegate, instruct, and trust an employee with a new task is difficult.

👍🏼 But a good manager will make you feel trusted and supported, not like a toddler who needs their hand held.

But if you are in the unfortunate situation of having a micromanaging boss, here are some practical tips for dealing with them.

Stay Calm and Composed:

Dealing with a micromanager can be stressful, but it's crucial to remain calm and composed. Reacting emotionally 🤬😤 to their behavior may escalate the situation and create unnecessary tension. Likewise, being passive aggressive will result in more harm than good. Take a deep breath, remind yourself of your abilities, and approach each situation with a level-headed attitude.

Sample Skit: 

Boss (B): (Approaching employee's desk) What are you working on right now? Have you finished Task A yet? Are you sure you're doing it correctly? 👀

Employee (E): (Smiling, remaining calm) Yes, I'm currently working on Task A. I'm following the process we discussed earlier, and I'll make sure to keep you updated on its progress ✅

Set Clear Expectations:

In some cases, micromanaging may arise from unclear expectations or a lack of trust in the employee's abilities. Proactively communicate with your boss to establish clear expectations for your tasks and responsibilities ✍🏼 Seek their input and feedback, ensuring that you are on the same page from the beginning 📖

B: (Checking in again) How far along are you with Task A? Did you encounter any issues? 🧐

E: (Confidently) I've made significant progress and encountered no issues so far. I plan to have it completed by the end of the week. If there are any specific aspects you'd like me to focus on, please let me know.

Come up with an alternate solution:

Be delicate with your feedback 🥛 Cater to their desire to see updates, and try to create a time and place where you can get consolidated feedback.

B: (Checking in again) Hey! Just checking in again. How is Task A coming along?

E: (Politely) It’s going really well. I definitely have my work cut out for me! I don’t want you to have to keep checking in with me constantly. That doesn’t seem like a good use of your time. How about I set up a meeting at the beginning of the day so that you can see my progress and give me feedback all at once? 🗓️

Build Trust and Showcase Your Expertise:

Take the initiative to build trust with your boss by consistently delivering high-quality work 🏆 Showcase your expertise and skills in your field, which may help alleviate any doubts about your capabilities. Prove yourself as a reliable and competent team member 🫱🏻‍🫲🏼

B: (Inquiring about Task A) Are you sure you're the right person for this task?

E: (Confidently) I appreciate your concern, but I have experience in handling similar projects successfully in the past. I'm confident that I can deliver the desired results for Task A as well 👍🏻

Have a One-on-One Conversation:

If the micromanaging behavior continues, consider scheduling a private one-on-one conversation with your boss 🪑 Express your concerns calmly and professionally, and work together to find a solution for the best interest of the project.

E: I would like to discuss our working dynamics and how I can improve my performance. I've noticed that there is a lot of oversight on Task A, and I believe it's affecting my ability to complete it efficiently.

B: (Listening attentively) I appreciate your openness. Let's talk about this in more detail and find ways to improve our collaboration.

I know, dealing with a micromanaging boss can be discouraging, but stay calm and composed. Stress that it’s in the best interest of the project! 👉🏼 This way they’ll still feel in control and will be more willing to concede. You got this!

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