Micromanagement can be subtle at first—but over time, it can drain morale, stifle creativity, and slow down progress. If you’ve ever felt like you’re constantly being watched or second-guessed at work, you might be dealing with a micromanager. Here are five signs that point clearly in that direction:
1. You’re Not Trusted to Make Small Decisions
Even routine tasks require approval. Whether it’s sending an email, adjusting a timeline, or tweaking a document, everything needs a green light—no matter how minor. This constant oversight suggests a lack of confidence in your judgment, which can be incredibly disempowering.
2. They’re Always in the Weeds
Rather than focusing on big-picture goals or strategy, the manager is knee-deep in the nitty-gritty. They’re more interested in how you got from point A to B than the fact that you got there effectively. It’s not about guidance anymore—it’s about control.
3. Your Work Is Frequently Rewritten or Redone
There’s a difference between constructive feedback and completely redoing someone’s work. If your output is regularly overhauled—especially without explanation—it can feel like your input doesn’t matter. Over time, this kills motivation and creativity.
4. Meetings Are More About Checking In Than Moving Forward
When most of your meetings revolve around detailed status updates or justifying your process, it’s a red flag. Healthy leadership encourages independence and trust, not constant reporting and surveillance.
5. There’s Little Room for Autonomy or Growth
One of the most damaging effects of micromanagement is how it stunts professional growth. If you’re never given the freedom to experiment, take ownership, or even fail occasionally, it becomes nearly impossible to develop your skills or confidence.