Micro-Managed by a Toxic Boss
- Tutu Morgan
- Oct 1, 2022
- 3 min read
Tutu takes this week's dilemma, on how to handle being nightmare micromanagers and take ownership of your professional development.
I've been working in my current job for the last 18 months, and recently got a new manager, about 6 months ago. Initially everything was fine, she had high expectations, which I felt was good for my professional development. However, the last few weeks have been hell. She picks apart everything I do, down to the tiniest details, triple-checks most of my emails, and doesn't allow me to hold my own meetings, attending every single meeting I have with other colleagues. She mentioned that she thinks I'm underperforming, but hasn't been able to articulate major issues - rather stylistic things and personal preferences, which I don't think is fair. How do I get to the root of her issue, without it escalating or having to report this formally? I'm keen to do better and improve where needed, but I'm at a loss for what I'm actually doing wrong.
"Being micromanaged is not a reflection of your capability, nor is it a call for you to try harder or do more." - Tutu Morgan, Special Adviser to the UNGA Secretary General
Firstly, I'm really sorry to hear that you are going through this. Micromanaging is something that is rarely spoken about, but is absolutely a form of workplace bullying that should not be tolerated in an organisation or company. Micromanaging blocks your independence, limits your ability to make decisions, and negatively impacts your learning and development. It can feel incredibly tough when you're not given a fair shot, and from the sounds of it, you want to do well and succeed in your job.