Micromanagement: A Leadership Mentor’s Perspective

During my long career as a leader and now as a leadership mentor (leadership2success), I’ve seen firsthand the adverse effects that micromanagement can have on individuals and teams. Micromanaging people and teams will surely and steadily lead to reduced morale, deteriorated motivation and productivity, equally increased stress levels and high turnover rates, ultimately leading to a failing company.

THE TRUST DESTROYER

One of the biggest problems, as I see it, with micromanagement is that it surely destroys trust. When a leader is constantly checking on their team members’ work and criticizing their every move, it sends the message that they don’t have faith in their abilities. This is incredibly demoralizing for employees, making them less likely to take risks or try new things.

THE LACK OF CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION

Another huge problem with micromanagement is that it suppresses creativity and innovation. Micromanagers often have a very specific way of doing things, and they expect their team members to follow their instructions to the letter. This prevents employees from coming up with new and better ideas, ultimately hurting the company’s bottom line and future. Just imagine what that means, e.g. for an R&D department.

THE WILL OF GETTING THINGS DONE CORRECTLY

Of course, and understandably, most leaders want to ensure things are getting done correctly and in an effective manner. But there’s a big difference between micromanaging and providing effective leadership.

EFFECTIVE AND CORRECT LEADERSHIP

Great leaders who, instead of micromanaging, provide sets of clear expectations, ensure regular feedback and empower their team members to make decisions, create blooming individuals and teams. By trusting their team members to get the job done, even if they don’t always agree with their methods, these leaders set up their teams for success. Ultimately, their own and their company’s success.

WHAT DEFINES A GREAT LEADER?

To describe a great leader, a leader who does not micromanage, I want to quote Chris Hadfield, a Canadian astronaut who was the first Canadian to walk in space:

“Ultimately, leadership is not about glorious crowning acts. It’s about keeping your team focused on a goal and motivated to do their best to achieve it, especially when the stakes are high, and the consequences really matter. It is about laying the groundwork for others’ success, and then standing back and letting them shine.” — Chris Hadfield

In other words, great leadership is about serving others before oneself.

HOW DO YOU AVOID MICROMANAGING?

If you’re a leader (or a parent, for that matter), I would like to share a few helpful tips for avoiding micromanagement:

1. Start by setting clear expectations and goals. Make sure your team members know what you’re expecting of them and what you’re hoping to achieve. Simply said, delegate effectively.
2. Give your team members the freedom to do their jobs. Refrain from dictating how they should do their work. Instead, focus on providing them with the resources and support they need to be successful.
3. Provide regular feedback, but don’t overdo it. Let your team members know how they’re doing, but don’t check on them constantly.
4. Empower your team members to make decisions. Give them the authority to make decisions on their own, even if you don’t always agree with them.
5. Trust and celebrate. Show them you trust them to do their jobs and make good decisions. And, equally important, celebrate your team’s achievements and wins. Celebrating your team’s wins is not only a nice gesture but also a powerful way to boost morale, motivation, and performance.

KNOW YOUR LEADERSHIP STYLE

If you’re concerned that you may be micromanaging your team members, here are a few beneficial things you can do:

1. Ask your team members for feedback. Ask them how you can be a more supportive and effective leader.
2. Take a step back and assess your management style. Are you giving your team members the freedom they need to do their jobs? Are you trusting them to make decisions?
3. Work with a mentor or coach. They can help you identify areas where you may be micromanaging and develop strategies for avoiding it.

TO CONCLUDE

Excellent leadership is about building trust and empowering your team members. By avoiding, i.e. not falling into the trap of micromanagement, you will create a positive and productive work environment for everyone. In other words, you create success!

QUESTION TO YOU READER AND LEADER

Are you an effective leader who does not micromanage your team?

Share your thoughts. Thanks!