![Blog [06 June] The Hovering Boss How To Hanle Micro Management](/rails/active_storage/representations/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsibWVzc2FnZSI6IkJBaHBBNHZaRnc9PSIsImV4cCI6bnVsbCwicHVyIjoiYmxvYl9pZCJ9fQ==--f9a3237380d979451aacf4041b9ae68e40c14754/eyJfcmFpbHMiOnsibWVzc2FnZSI6IkJBaDdCam9VWTI5dFltbHVaVjl2Y0hScGIyNXpld2c2QzNKbGMybDZaVWtpRGpFd01EQjROVEF3WGdZNkJrVlVPZ3huY21GMmFYUjVTU0lMUTJWdWRHVnlCanNIVkRvSlkzSnZjRWtpRVRFd01EQjROVEF3S3pBck1BWTdCMVE9IiwiZXhwIjpudWxsLCJwdXIiOiJ2YXJpYXRpb24ifX0=--46c71b34483be69bdb6c526f3ee4da2b74b4cce2/Blog%20%5B06%20June%5D%20The_Hovering_Boss_How_To_Hanle_Micro_Management.png)
Perhaps you’re constantly being pulled up on pointless things? Maybe you just want to be left alone to get on with tasks you know how to do? Or are you sick of being needlessly nagged at by your superior?
If so, chances are you have a micromanaging boss. A boss that helicopters over you can be eternally frustrating and can impact not only how you feel about your job, but how well you perform at it.
And it’s endemic. As many as 32% of Australians feel that they are micromanaged by their boss.
While you (likely!) cannot get rid of your boss, understanding both why and how to deal with their excessively interfering ways will help you navigate the exasperating situation with ease.
From understanding their triggers to always delivering to build trust, here’s four steps to handle your micromanaging boss so you can both foster a better relationship on site or in the workplace.
1 Understand what drives their need to micromanage
The likelihood is your boss may not even be aware they are micromanaging in the first place. They probably just think they’re doing their job as a responsible manager. The key is to understand why they’re doing it.
It could be they are insecure, or maybe they had a bad experience which has bred mistrust with their team. Maybe they, themselves are perfectionists and need to feel in control. Maybe their boss or the organisation puts excessive demands on them and that is then passed down to you. Maybe they are brilliant at what they do which sets high expectations on them and their teams.
When you have established what causes their micromanagement tendencies – and assessed things from their perspective - then you’re in a stronger, more informed position to handle the situation constructively.
2 Evaluate your own performance
If you are late, unprepared, present sloppy work, don’t follow processes or communicate poorly, then there is very chance your boss will need to correct your work and your behaviours. Keep in mind that your boss will be evaluated on your performance as well as their own.
Doing an amazing job, checking in with your boss often and understanding their expectations will reduce their need to micromanage, build confidence and trust that will see you on the way. So, meet and anticipate their needs and own mistakes if you make any. It goes without saying to always be punctual and never take unapproved extended breaks. Hit your targets, meet project deadlines, and always listen to their instructions closely so you don’t fall out of step.
3 Identify in what ways their behaviour is hindering your performance
If you are legitimately being picked upon, surveilled, or hassled, then prepare your case by identifying exactly how your boss’ micromanaging is affecting your performance.
Their dominance may be a burden on your creativity, they could make you feel depressed and demoralised, or the constant breathing down your neck might get in the way of your productivity. When you’ve got a clear list of things, then it’s time to approach them.
4 Talk to your boss about it
Now you’ve identified how your boss is hindering your performance, find a way to discuss your feelings calmy and professionally. This is your opportunity to diplomatically express that you know what your job responsibilities are (and how to execute them) and that their behaviour is negatively impacting your wellbeing or performance.
Make sure they feel in control and give them the opportunity to share their thoughts. As if there is anything you can do better to help. With luck, being transparent, honest, and fair with your boss will help you foster a stronger and more understanding working relationship with them.
If you are open to new opportunities, contact a recruitment agency like Trojan Recruitment Group and receive advice from the experts in labour-hire, permanent and contract staff.
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