Entrepreneurs such as yourself have dedicated a significant amount of time and money into their small businesses. As a result, they want to make sure that everything succeeds – from the financial plan down to daily customer interactions.
This level of dedication is both a positive and a negative. On one hand, it means that you care and are willing to do whatever it takes to improve your company. On the other hand, it will lead to micromanaging – where you take control of every part of your business – which can disrupt your team and actually do more harm than good. So then, how can you tell if you've fallen prey to micromanaging? And, if so, what can you do to get your small business back on track?
Here are a few tips and tricks to answer those important questions:
Micromanaging comes in many shapes and sizes
There isn't a one-size-fits-all answer to what micromanaging looks like. In fact, each person can exhibit different traits that could be problematic for their company, but the end result will always be the same – slipping company morale and lower productivity.
In order to avoid those issues, you should first figure out where you take control, if you do at all. According to Inc. magazine, the first tell-tale sign is a lack of proper delegation. For example, do you often tell other workers to do the boring tasks on their own, and save the good stuff for yourself or other employees who you favor? If so, you may be a micromanager. Or, you may not allow anyone to do important jobs on their own, without your close supervision. You could also prevent employees from developing their skills, learning from mistakes and growing through initiative.
If this is the case, problems could be popping up in your small business. Inc. magazine explained that micromanaging can hamper employee development. If they aren't allowed to learn things on their own and tough out harder problems, they likely won't be able to grow within your company. In addition, you may feel concerned about your managerial skills, preventing you from making key changes to avoid micromanaging. All in all, this could be a serious problem for your financial plan and your bottom line.
How to prevent micromanaging
If micromanaging sounds like a potential issue at your small business, there is no need to worry. Thankfully, there are a number of ways you can stop this behavior and ensure that your employees can handle any task that comes their way.
For starters, Entrepreneur magazine recommended that you bring in the right people. Micromanaging may have become a problem in the first place because staff members aren't qualified for the jobs, forcing you to take control. Instead, consider hiring better workers or changing your process altogether. For instance, if innovation is a trait you value, make sure you screen for it during the interview stage. That way, nobody gets through who isn't willing to take charge and figure things out on their own.
Moreover, you must also emphasize accountability, Entrepreneur magazine explained. Poor performances cannot become the standard. If your other staff members identify this behavior and fail to express concern, it could go unchecked. Instead, offer anonymous surveys from time to time to allow people to voice their problems. These checks will let you learn about your employees, and figure out where you need to make critical changes to ensure productivity and performance. Above all else, make sure your workers have the power to do their jobs.