From micro-management to proactive-management

Micro-management is often reported as the worst trait in a boss, (significantly) more than another singular thing.

Stemming from insecurity, lack of trust, or sheer incompetence, most of us have suffered through this at some point in our lives and we know how horrible it is to be micro-managed :( 

Therefore, management narratives have been so focussed on doing the opposite: giving freedom, having trust, offering space, or granting freedom to fly!

But many managers end up overcorrecting themselves. We can be so afraid of micro-management that we risk moving into passive territory by simply putting people in position to grow, and then going hands off to give them the “space” to do it. 

If that’s what you do, you’re not “managing” enough. At the risk of not micro-managing, you are not even “proactive-managing” to support them for growth, success and recognition! 

Stay engaged, throughout, without hovering to take over.