Is your boss a micromanager? Then maybe you’ll find comfort in knowing that you are not alone. Or even better: in that there are practical ways how you can learn to manage the boss that has an obsessive need to constantly control you. Eight practical tips were brought by Forbes.com.
1. Look for behavior patterns
It is usually relatively easy to anticipate micromanagers‘ behavior. For example, you will discover that they are especially nervous in certain situations, or on certain days or times of day. If you know these situations, you will save yourself a lot of stress.
2. Anticipate problems
Once you know what irritates your boss, you can avoid it more easily. You will learn to recognize problems and deal with them before your boss starts noticing them. Always have various solutions in store so that you can withstand his constant supervision.
3. Have sympathy
Show your boss that you understand the kind of pressure he/she is under. Make it clear that you want to help.
4. Show that you are reliable
Micromanagers need to have everything under control. Do not therefore give them unnecessary opportunities to be suspicious of you. If there are unreliable people on your team, try to motivate them to be more reliable.
5. Be a good example
Behave towards your boss as you would like him/her to behave towards you. Do not allow yourself to be provoked. Show him/her that your style of work is different but brings results that are just as good.
6. Talk to your boss about his/her approach
Without using a confrontational tone, try to explain to him/her how his/her micromanager’s approach influences you.
7. Involve others
You are probably not the only victim of your boss-micromanager. Therefore explain to your colleagues how you are trying to improve cooperation with your boss and encourage them to do the same.
8. Defend yourself
If you are not successful in getting your boss to breathe less down your neck, consider talking to his/her boss.
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