Management Tips

Generally, micro-managers tend to be those promoted rank and file. As a junior staff, they were able to function only when every instruction is provided by their manager. Likewise, this is the only management style they are most comfortable with. What hapens when they meet more competent staff or peers? Typically, micro-managers promoted through the ranks will have an inferiority complex. They are always wary of more capable staff and peers. They often assume such folks have bad intentions. Therefore, the micro-manager will put up her/his defences very spontaneously. Unfortunately, their actions often do not benefit the organization. It usually ends up as bureaucracy which adversely affects performance. Micro-managers tend to put self ahead of the organization. They will usually be narrow focus, since they are not thinking strategically.

How should senior management contribute to their organizations? Senior management should focus on strategic matters and high level tactical issues. Senior managers who micro-manage and who do not empower their managers are not contributing as much as they should based on their senior apointments. Such managers should not have been promoted to a senior role in the first place.

What kind of staff would make good potential to be managers? Individuals who are creative and intelligent; could work independently; yet understand the strategic importance of their work, with reference to others in the team or inter-dependent departments. What happens when you do not empower this type of individuals? They will feel that senior management do not trust and empower them to make decisions. Generally, these individuals will feel constraint and frustration. They will typically seek other opportunities where they have more flexibility at work.

When should you empower your staff? Senior managers should trust their middle management staff. They should be empowered to make decisions. When should you micro-manage? Micro-manage for junior staff who will benefit from close supervision.

Managers will maximize staff capabilities and productivity through empowerment. Staff, in general, will be more likely to contribute positively if management give positive reinforcement and develop self-confidence and team bonding. Therefore, leadership and motivation are useful traits managers should cultivate.