Relentless scrutiny, constant hovering, incessant meddling — anyone who’s ever worked for a micromanager knows the drill. It’s a daily struggle of being second-guessed and sidelined, under a microscope, and on a tight leash. In a word, it’s oppressive.
When Your New Boss Is a Micromanager
Why they might be hovering — and what you can do about it.
June 18, 2024
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Summary.
Building a relationship with a new boss can feel daunting, and it can be especially difficult if you feel like you’re being micromanaged. In this article, the writer talks with two experts about what to do in this demotivating situation. The first step is to figure out what’s behind your boss’s micromanaging tendencies. Maybe they’re genuinely trying to help, but their methods and cadence don’t match your work style or expectations. Once you’ve got a better grip on your boss’s motivations and gotten feedback on your own performance, focus on establishing credibility. If despite your best efforts nothing seems to be changing — especially if you believe your boss is intentionally sabotaging your work — experts say that unfortunately, there’s not much else you can do. It might be best to start searching for a new job, either within your organization or elsewhere.