If you’re Gen Z (or any age group actually) and you do not mind being micromanaged, then you would relate to this story. After I published the article on micromanagement and surefire tips for survival, I shared it with Favor, a friend I’d made at a job interview last year, and her response was startling: I actually don’t mind being micromanaged.
It spurred me into a bit of inquiry. Is micromanagement healthy?
This Forbes article gives 7 reasons why micromanagers are good for teams and companies. But what about the individual?
When it comes to working, we all have what works for each person. Just like some would not like to work fully remotely. If you would look at it from a broader perspective, individual preferences might have to be downplayed in a workplace with the conflicting work culture. Some could work things out; a non-remote person working in a remote company could get a co-workspace and thrive, yes? And, some wouldn’t. Favor didn’t last in her previous job because she wasn’t productive. Now, as a part of the operations team of a food supply company, she is happy with her job and has earned a salary increase within six months of employment. What changed? Well, the culture; moved from a role that gave her absolute autonomy to one that has her team lead involved in every step. And she tells me about it over a chat.
Micromanagement Works for me Sometimes
“I won’t use the term micromanagement though. That’s the word actually, but using that makes it feel like I enjoy working in a toxic place, and I don’t”.
“Trust me, I am not alone, there are people like me who need it. And I also enjoy being given the liberty to do things too, but for the most part, I prefer constant direction and approval. As an employee, Micromanagement works for me at the workplace. I’ve had the privilege of working with many supervisors and managers who have different management styles and I can honestly say that it’s the micromanaging that I prefer the most”
“I enjoy it when my boss is present and involved in the day-to-day operations. It helps me to stay on track and reach my goals more efficiently. Knowing my supervisor is always there to answer questions and provide guidance is reassuring. It encourages me to be more proactive”
“I was speaking with a colleague some time ago and he thought I was crazy or being sarcastic. But the truth is, my ability to take initiative stems from the assurance I get from close monitoring. I think it’s one of the reasons why working from home is not exactly for me. I enjoy it, don’t get me wrong, but I prefer to work in that structured and organized environment. My supervisor’s micromanagement also helps me to stay organized. I have a set of tasks that I need to complete each day and I’m able to stay focused on these tasks. I work better when my daily goals are stated clearly and I have to give reports at every step. Call me rigid, but it works for me”
Micromanagement isn’t entirely healthy
“However I know it’s not entirely healthy. As much as I am productive and I deliver results, the process matters. My supervisor and HR officer noticed and called my attention to it. At the beginning of Q4 this year, I had a personal meeting with each of them and next year is going to be different. The plan is to make me more independent and thrive there, else I won’t be promoted to a supervisory or managerial role when the time comes. I’m glad they’re willing to help me work on it though and let’s see how things will work. To be honest, it’s a great fear which I am working on already. I am learning to be independent and take ownership of my work. Until then, I’m happy I’m bringing results and doing my job well”
Bottom Line
Micromanagement may not be the best work culture to imbibe. It’s a thing to be productive, and another to be efficient. For the latter, you need the autonomy to prove yourself.
The fact remains that some employees like to be micromanaged. And the question remains; is it healthy? What kind of work environment would such thrive?