Help… I work for a Micro-Manager

Agenda What is Micro-Management Why does it happen? What you can do about it 3 Things www.wilymanager.com

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. www.wilymanager.com

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 www.wilymanager.com

What can I do about it? Upward Manage Put a Performance Agreement in place Learn to say “No” www.wilymanager.com

Upward Managing 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 www.wilymanager.com

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 www.wilymanager.com

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. www.wilymanager.com

3 Things If you end up battling your boss, you will likely lose Proactively manage your relationship with your boss Define and constantly refine expectations www.wilymanager.com