Working for a boss who micromanages you can make your entire workday feel overwhelming. You might think your employer doesn’t trust you. Or, you might even start to second guess your own abilities based on what they do or say.
It’s difficult to do your best work and grow in your position when you’re constantly being micromanaged. Some bosses, especially those in new managerial positions, might not realize what they’re doing.
Others, however, seem to be naturals when it comes to scrutinizing work and “hovering” over every task throughout your day.
If you work for a micromanaging boss, what can you do? How can you cope every day at work, and how can you let go of that stress when you clock out?
Prove Your Credibility – One Step at a Time
Most bosses who micromanage don’t want to be directly told that you’re perfectly capable of doing your job (even if you are). Instead, find ways to show them. Doing so will prove your worth, credibility, and trustworthiness.
But, it’s a good idea to take baby steps when you use this approach. Some micromanagers feel like they can’t let go because they assume no one will do the job to their standards. Help to ease their insecurities. Simply ask for a small task that they would otherwise do themselves. Or, if you’re working on a project they’ve been lurking on, offer up what you’re doing at each stage. Show them what is being done to earn their trust and ease their worries.
Over time, with consistency, they will learn that you can do your job well. As a result, they’re less likely to try to control every aspect of every project.
Communicate and Ask Questions
Don’t be afraid to ask your boss what you can do to earn their trust. They might be a bit caught off guard by the question, at first.
But, communication is often a big problem area with micromanagers. Some people tend to hold their aggressions and frustrations inside, rather than work toward a solution. So, talk to your boss about how you can deepen the level of trust between you. Ask them how you can gain more independence within the organization.
You might be surprised by their answer. Hopefully, it is very straightforward, giving you a clear goal to work toward. However, if they suggest that things will remain the way they are, it might be time to move on.
Speak Up in Good Faith
In some cases, your boss may not know they’re micromanaging you. Many bosses who do so are insecure about their own work or, possibly, their own position. So, they take might those insecurities out on others – sometimes without even realizing it.
So, what can you do? Try to create more awareness in your work environment.
Explain to your boss how they make you feel when they micromanage you. Validate their desire to have a good work product. Point out instances of their actions, so they get a clear picture of what they’re doing and how it affects you. Do this with respect and professionalism, of course, but don’t be afraid to speak up.
Perhaps something like, "I recognize how important this project is, and that you need to have confidence that it will be done on time. I am happy to give you frequent updates at each stage of the process, but when you check in with me so often, it interrupts my concentration and work flow. Would you be open to me emailing you a progress update (daily, weekly, etc?) so that you stay informed and can ask questions as needed?"
The ideal outcome is that they would become more aware of what they’re doing and give you the space you need to work. Of course, it may not always work out that way, but you can have peace of mind knowing you stood up for yourself and your career.
Bosses who micromanage you can make it nearly impossible to do your job efficiently and effectively. Thus, it’s important to let go of your own frustrations at the end of the day and practice self-care as much as possible. Even if you do the "right" things, your boss may not change their style. So make sure that your non-work life has enough positive energy and support to offset the frustrations at work. At some point, you may need to consider whether it may be time to choose a different place of employment. But if you start with these tips, you will know that you tried everything reasonable and can leave with no regrets. If you need some support, encouragement, or help setting your own career goals, it may also be the right time to reach out to a counselor.
Contact Me
If you are struggling with confidence or effectiveness due to a boss or other occupational challenges you aren’t alone. If you want to learn how to move forward, please feel free to contact me with any questions or to set up an appointment.
I know how stressful and demanding it can be to make changes in your life, but you don’t have to figure it out on your own. Some of the benefits of individual therapy include:
- Having a safe, confidential space to work through life’s struggles
- Speaking openly with a highly-trained professional
- Learning to be curious about oneself and become more mindful about your choices
- Identifying relationship patterns that are helpful, or existing patterns that are interfering with your growth and wellbeing.
- I offer online therapy (video conference style of therapy), which provides an increased level of comfort as you could meet with me from the privacy and comfort of your own home or other location.
You can request a specific appointment time that fits your schedule. Once confirmed, you can complete all New Patient Intake paperwork online as well.
*** The tips offered in this article are for general information and should not be considered medical or psychological advice. For more personalized recommendations appropriate to your individual situation, please contact us or obtain professional guidance.
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