Published By: Vallari Apte

Boss Getting On Your Nerves? Ways To Deal With A Micromanaging Boss

If you are finding it hard to breathe under the thumb of your boss, maybe these little tips would help you!

Micromanagement is often a leadership style taken up by many leaders and while they are sometimes the best way to handle certain situation, it can easily backfire. Having a boss who is constantly breathing down your neck is something that could be detrimental to an employee’s confidence and productivity. If you are struggling to keep up with a boss who micromanages you at every chance they get, you should try to stop it right away. Here are a few ways you can deal with a micromanaging boss!

Try Being Direct With Them First

Nothing works better than straight-forwardness at the workplace sometimes. Be direct with your boss and try to put a positive spin on the fact that they are micromanaging you. Ask them directly what it is that you are doing wrong and how you can improve. If they respond with positive feedback that you are already doing your best work, suggest to them that you feel your most productive when you are granted the autonomy and time to manage your own tasks. This would establish your intention of being collaborative with your boss while also putting forward the fact that you feel uncomfortable with their management style without being too cheeky about it.

If Possible, Over-Deliver On Your Work Commitments

One way to get a micromanaging boss off your back is by not giving them a chance to undercut you. Micromanagement happens when your boss finds themselves unable to put confidence and trust in you. Don’t create a situation where this could happen. Try to be thorough with your work and if possible, over-deliver. This would form a sense of trust on your boss’ end and you would find them less likely to go over your head all the time!

Guide Them With Subtlety Regarding Their Involvement

Most of the times people who micromanage are not aware of doing so. In such cases, you have to point it out to your boss in subtle gestures and words. Request for some room with your work and explain to them why you would like to work independently on a particular project. Let them know how much and the ways of involvement you expect from them in a particular task. Take the initiative to open up a conversation subtly.