If you have identified yourself as a micromanager, you should take a moment to give yourself credit for recognizing your micromanaging tendencies. Many managers lack the self-awareness to realize they could be doing things differently and more effectively. Second, it is important to understand that with a little bit of work, you can successfully change your approach and break the cycle.
Here are four ways to stop micromanaging and give your team the freedom they need to succeed:
Take An Introspective Look at Yourself
Micromanaging tendencies, like many personality quirks, often come from insecurity. Are you worried about your employees’ abilities to get the job done? Do you fear that nobody can do your job as well as you? In order to drill down the source of your possible insecurities, it can help to seek out the assistance of a mentor or professional coach who can help you identify the root cause of your micromanaging tendencies and can help you craft an action plan that will allow you to overcome your insecurities.
Abandon the Idea that Perfection is Possible
Nobody in the history of the world has achieved perfection in everything they do. Perfection is an unrealistic expectation of yourself as a leader, and it is even more unrealistic for your team members. Mistakes happen, and people must be given the opportunity to make mistakes so that they can learn from them and grow in their careers.
This is far easier said than done. In order to let go of perfection, it will be necessary to ask what’s more important, a “perfect” project, completed precisely the way you would have done it yourself, or a successful project that may not be “perfect?” When you give team members the freedom to approach problems and projects from their own unique perspective, they often come up with new and better ways to do things. Remember, it’s the results that matter, not necessarily the path someone takes to get there.
Create a Team Dynamic
A cohesive team is always more effective that a group of individuals who don’t work well together. Strong teams like working together, recognize one another’s strengths, and pool their skills in order to accomplish more. However, employees who are micromanaged don’t have the opportunity to develop a true team dynamic. Strengthen your team by taking a genuine interest in them as people, and treat their ideas as valuable contributions to the organization. Take a step back and let them work together to solve problems. You may be pleasantly surprised at the results.
Hire the Right People
If you are truly not confident in your employees, it might be time to try building a better team. This starts with the hiring process. If you aren’t identifying people with the right skills, qualifications, and personality, then you’ll always lack confidence in their abilities.
If you are looking for ways to improve your hiring process and identify top talent who will add value to your team, CERS can help. We are a top-tier management recruiting and consulting firm in Miami with a wide network of talent. Our management talent is diverse, driven, and dedicated to success, and they can help you spark better collaboration and teamwork among employees. Contact us today to learn more about how CERS can connect you with the top management talent in the country.
