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Symptoms of Micro-Managers:
- Highly Controlling – wants to oversee every aspect of the work
- Power-Hungry – enjoys “flexing muscles” to ensure everyone knows s/he is the boss
- Makes all the decisions – no matter how minor
Why are They Like This?
- Insecurity – may be unsure of their own ability in the job
- Power-crazed – may use their position to feel self-important
- Perfectionist – may need every aspect of the job to be as close to perfect as possible
- Not a Leader – may have been a great individual contributor, but has moved to a leadership role without requisite training
What Can I Do About It?
1. Upward Manage
- Schedule and structure one on one meeting times with your boss
- Determine what is most important to him/her, and contribute to those priorities
- Talk about what you plan to do in the coming week, and get feedback in advance
- Don’t ever surprise your boss
2. Get a Performance Agreement
- Define boundaries of authority.
- Agree on a work plan that defines outcomes and methods
- Agree on the top 3 – 7 priorities
- Link your performance goals clearly to your bosses goals
3. Learn to Say “No”
- Always say “Yes” before saying “No”
- Acknowledge their position as the boss
- Refer to your Performance Agreement
- If you think a request is unreasonable, try to negotiate. Educate him/her as to the nature of the request
- Describe the impact a request may have on you without complaining
- Carefully manage your tone
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