How to manage productivity without micromanaging

The position of manager, in a project or business, is extremely complicated, keeping things in order, be aware of updates, understanding, and managing the workgroup and tasks most efficiently, basically warranting that everything happens according to plan.

For the manager of a project, it is essential to be prepared and try, by all means, that your management style is effective.

Otherwise, you can fall into practices such as micromanaging or “good luck” management, which can dangerously affect the health of the work environment.

What is Micromanagement?

Micromanagement is a dangerous practice derived from management. It’s when the manager “oppresses” his delegates, through actions such as carefully observing each step they make, or controlling their actions. Micromanagers often are seen as the “excruciating boss who doesn’t let his employees breathe, control freaks who believe that nothing gets done right if they don’t do it themselves.” This management trend usually has negative connotations both on the employee and the manager himself. Employees feel that they don’t have freedom, and their work or abilities are not trusted, in addition to the fact that they are very likely to generate feelings of resentment towards the manager, due to the oppression they feel. Now on the manager side, their health and peace of mind are often affected by overwork and overthinking.

How to manage productivity without doing micromanagement?

Some ways to achieve this and not become the jerk boss that everyone hates are:

1. Be clear and precise: you are the boss, and your delegates know it. Everybody knows the boss delegates tasks, sets deadlines, asks for progress, and has to be present to answer questions. However, if at the time to delegate work, you get around the bush or leave deadlines open, it will generate counterproductive freedom. Be clear to the delegate, be precise on tasks and deadlines, and trust your team.
2. Be on the same channel: From the beginning, make your work plan clear and make sure, even if it takes you a few times to explain, that the whole team understands the work scheme and its goals. If you “assume” that the team thinks the same way you do, it can lead to a lot of confusion, inconveniences, and wasted time.
3. Understand the crew: It is important not to act like “Mr. Smarty” instead of telling the team how to do things, ask them how they would do it, the team will feel appreciated. Take time to understand what they think of the project and embrace new ideas that can be brilliant, remember that they are also professionals, and they work there for a reason.
4. Know your team: It is impossible to trust someone you don’t know. Give yourself time to be a colleague instead of being “Mr boss” all the time, give yourself the task of being trusted, and to trust them too. It will be easier for you to delegate tasks without having to watch every step they take.

Being a manager is hard work, so it is always important to surround yourself with a support team that works alongside you and not under you. Be a leader instead of a boss, walk in the front to lead your team, lead by example, and you will see how the productivity of your department will increase rapidly.