Being Micromanaged? What’s Really Going On?

When your boss is overly focused on the small details of your work, it can feel overwhelming. But understanding whether they are micromanaging or simply lacking confidence in you is key to resolving the issue. Here’s what to consider:

If your boss is paying too much attention to the details of your work it means either:

1. They’re a micromanager.
2. They don’t have confidence in you.

It’s wise to distinguish between the two. 

Naturally, we all tend to get defensive and assume we’re being micromanaged. But before jumping to that conclusion, take a step back and consider:

• Is it new behavior?
• Do they do this to everyone else they manage?

If it's not new behavior and they do it to everyone they manage, they may be a micromanager, and you may need to consider if this is a long-term situation you want to stay in.

However, if it's new and focused only on you, it may be a sign that your boss lacks confidence in your work, which means you’ll need to take action. Here’s how:

1. Have a direct conversation to uncover the real issue.
   For example:
   “I’ve noticed you’ve been more involved in the details of my work lately. Is there something specific I could improve or adjust to meet your expectations?”
2. Ask for clear direction on how to earn their confidence.
   “What can I do to give you the confidence to leave these details to me?”
3. Set a checkpoint to review progress.
   “Great, let’s establish some checkpoints over the next month to ensure I’m on track and meeting your expectations.”

Taking these steps will help you address the situation head-on and improve your working relationship with your boss, whether it’s a case of micromanagement or a confidence issue.

If the cause of the micromanagement was a lack of confidence, you’ll have effectively taken control of your own performance improvement plan.

In summary: Don’t misread your boss’s intent. If they are truly a micromanager, you may want to consider whether this is the right environment for you. But if it’s about confidence, tackle it head-on. Address the issue directly, and you’ll not only avoid being fired or driven crazy, but you’ll also elevate your standing in the process!

Conversely: If you're the boss, recognize what you're doing. If you're micromanaging, why?

1. Address it directly with your direct report.
2. Give them clear direction on how they can earn your confidence.
3. Set a series of checkpoints and allow them the freedom to gain your confidence back.
4. If they can't or won't, find a way to move them out of the role. Perhaps there's another role that would better fit their skills.