Management 101 - Micro Management

All of us have a tendency to make sure our staff perform their tasks in line with expectations, which in itself is not a bad thing. But then some of us would like to make sure that this exactly matches our own way of how we would deliver. Well, don't!

This is called micro-management, and is extremely discouraging for your staff. Having somebody looking over your shoulder all the time, or giving you plenty of re-work because the product delivered as slightly different from your standards is demoralising. If some deviation is important and therefore unacceptable, then explain this so the person understands why a change is required. If it's cosmetic but otherwise acceptable, don't intervene but show appreciation. And speak encouraging about the aspects of the delivered effort that you really like. That will set the person up to be motivated for constructive delivery in future.

Micro management turns employees into zombies. They stop thinking for themselves, will not show initiative and just do as they're told. They will not grow, you will not get the best out of them and over time you may end up with a less valuable employee or they might leave altogether. Better to set clear expectations, but leave room for the employee to use their initiative to deliver. Use coaching and KPIs to ensure a good end-result. And above all, be encouraging with positive and constructive feedback on a regular basis. This is the best motivator!