As a fresher or a junior, many times, we look for the much needed hand-holding or spoon-feeding in the initial stages. But if it prolongs for more, it becomes a problem. Just like a kid does not like his parent to hold him tightly; a fresher always wants the freedom to run and at the same time requires the guidance to move in the right direction. Any imbalance in this leads to micro-management. But, as a junior if you are being micromanaged, you have to look for ways to handle the situation for your own growth.
Now there could be various reasons for micromanagement to prevail in companies, at the managerial level but, a junior may also be a reason for a manager to behave like that.
You may be micromanaged, if you are doing this:
A) Repeating mistakes, without understanding what is being taught
B) Improper planning of his own work, affecting the entire project and others’ work
C) Differences in thought process and inability to communicate the same, especially In the initial stages
D) Creative differences with the manager and/or other team members
E) Inability to be in sync with other team members
F) Passive aggression
All these factors lead a manager to lose confidence in your work, thereby forcing him to look at the matter every now and then; otherwise, the project will go out of track. Moreover, a manager has to ensure that all the team members are in sync; in spite of all the differences occurring between them. As a result, a manager might look for mid-way in order to satisfy them and also to ensure the project is delivered well.
Even though a few managers are obsessed with micro-management, others are forced or change their behavior as they keep on facing challenges with team members. In the end, it is going to create the trouble for a junior, who does not expect that at all.
So, as a junior, follow a few tactics to adapt or handle micromanagement and create a great bond with your manager:
A) First of all, Do Not be afraid of the mistakes done. Being proactive after doing mistakes is a major factor in gaining a manager’s confidence. He might scold you instantly. But, if you embrace your mistake- it gives him assurance about your readiness and leaves you to work.
B) Make sure you Understand what is being discussed. Make sure you and your manager are in sync with respect to the key takeaways. Any deviation, sort it beforehand
C) Make sure you are committed to your words and timelines. Even though, a manager micro-manages in the initial stages, if your words and actions are in sync, he will gain confidence and start giving you freedom
D) Be assertive; don’t be afraid of the consequences, at least initially. Unless your manager takes things too personal, give the benefit of the doubt, and keep your ideas clear.
E) Make sure you are able to be in sync with your team members too. If you see any difference, raise the flag at the right time and make sure the issue is sorted out.
F) Overall, when the manager gains more confidence in your work, you will be given more freedom. If things do not work even then, it is time to put your point with your manager directly and see what the best solution is.
G) Help him/her understand what is affecting your work and at the same time ask him for his reasons to micro-manage. This will help you work on problems faced by him and boost his confidence in your abilities.