Readers post some amazing reflections and stories on blog post comments and in Readers Respond documents. So, occasionally, I publish readers' comments on the blog.
Today, Steve tells us about micromanaging managers - and why this hurts employees. Here is the original poll about bad bosses that sparked Steve's comment. Steve says:
"I have had my selection of both good and bad direct report bosses. The number one bad boss characteristic I've experienced has to be micromanagement.
"Micromanagement says to an employee: I don't trust that you are doing a good job, you will never do a good job, and only I know what needs to be done.
"In reality, micromanagers:
- Rarely know what the requirements are,
- Do not accept solutions from others,
- Refuse to consider their direct reports as anything other than inferior, and
- Never change their behavior.
"Because micromanagers trust no one but themselves, they only trust those who 'ape' their solutions back to them. Micromanagers need political allies because somewhere buried deep in their subconscious, their inferiority complex lurks. Micromanagers love and support suck-ups because suck-ups appear to be 'supportive' to micromanagers because they are simply agreeing with everything a micromanager says.
"Micromanagers thrive in organizations which self-perpetuate and support such conduct. Micromanagers are rarely alone, their bosses undoubtedly praise their 'attention to detail.' Micromanagers love the sound of their own voice and love to pontificate upon every little detail no matter how minute. Sing their praises and they will sing yours.
"If you try to innovate, suggest, resist or challenge any of the direction they provide to you, micromanagers will do everything they can to oppress your conduct, pull you down and keep you in your place. Micromanagers know you are under them and there is nothing they like to do more than remind you of how inadequate you are."
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More About Bad Bosses
Wow, are you talking about my current boss? lol He is exactly like that, and that is the exact reason why I am leaving and moving on to another position. I learned a lot from him about what not to do, so when I become a supervisor in the future, I won’t be like him, the insecure loser!
It is very stressful to work for a micromanager, especially when they suck-up to their own superior. I know I had to endure this for 4 years until he finally got his way in getting rid of me after working for the company for twelve years.
The author of this article is so dead on! My present boss reminded me that (“he was the boss”)! in the middle of telling me how I should do my job. I also responded with, I know that you are the boss. However, I disagree with your opinion. I could of heard a pin drop. Then he wanted me to report to his office. Have we heard the word “RESPECT”. He needs to get some.!!!
If you are having difficulties with your boss, talk to him/her first. But, always protect yourself. Never let it be his word against your yours. It will leave you vulnerable. Also never take your problem to HR. This is the first step to being let go. Human resources works for management first and foremost.
“Micromanagers are either born or situationally inferior”
We can not generalize that HR works only to benefit management. There are all kinds of people in every level of management. There needs to be understanding of the situation and courage to confront unacceptable behavior. Not all people are willing to go there for fear of retaliation. Having a wife and children to support makes some hesitate on doing what is right for fear of being terminated. HR is about having character to challenge unacceptable behavior in the workplace and protect the dignity and respect for all employees. You do not learn these traits in college. These are core values that you bring with you into the workplace.