Work Trouble. Some Advice Needed

[rgf207]

Ok here's the story. I have been working for a small company for 3 1/2 years now. For the first 3 years I traveled a lot an had a great manager. He basically knew that I knew what I was doing and let me work. Basically he was there to approve changes and some other managerial stuff. Recently that contract ended and I was moved to another contract with a new manager. This person micromanages me to death. I cant even take it. It drives me crazy. I feel like I have to ask him to use the bathroom it is that bad. I dont know why he does it and it is really starting to get me mad even to the point of looking for another job. The problem is that my job is in my town and I dont have a commute. Any other jobs out there would give me a 1+ hour commute both ways.

Any suggestions on what I can do

 

[rgf207]

bump

 

[dmslush]

Have you tried talking to him about it? Does he do other employees the same way? I would at least try to explain to him that you are used to an independent, self monitoring type work environment. Explain to him that has worked great for you for the past three years, and your good work is a result of that independence. Then, I would propose to him to let you work independently in the manner that you are used to for a trial period. See if it works for everyone. If it doesn't work for him, you can re-evaluate the arrangement. He may just need to see that you can perform your duties without constant supervision.

 

[rgf207]

No I have not tried talking to him about it. That might be an idea. He is not an unreasonable person but I'm not sure how he would take it.

It is not just me he micromanages, It's everyone on his team. It's just really frustrating because that is how I was treated back when I was 16 and worked at Taco Bell. I figure I deserve more respect than that especially since I worked by myself for 3 years and have definately proven myself.

 

[DeterminedOne]

I agree that talking to him is a start. Also look at what you can do to change your own behaviors. Is there something that you and the other staff are doing that would give him a reason to micromanage? Not saying that you are, but just something to consider. Change is always difficult, especially when it comes to getting a new boss. Sometimes, it's an employee's resistance to change that makes matters worse. Not saying this is the case with you, just saying you please consider it.

 

[rgf207]

I agree that talking to him is a start. Also look at what you can do to change your own behaviors. Is there something that you and the other staff are doing that would give him a reason to micromanage? Not saying that you are, but just something to consider. Change is always difficult, especially when it comes to getting a new boss. Sometimes, it's an employee's resistance to change that makes matters worse. Not saying this is the case with you, just saying you please consider it.

I'm pretty sure that is not the issue. I have always done my work as I am supposed to. I have received letters of recognition from the head of our government facilities. I think that micromanagement is just his way.

 

[Evil Genius]

Can you get your old manager, your new manager and you all sit down for a chat. Maybe he doesn't realize that this is bothering you or that he is even doing it!

 

[MushyMushy]

That exact same thing happened to my DH at his old job. At first it drove him nuts and he came home tearing his hair out every day. His new boss wanted to know what he was doing every second of every day, and he had to CC her on every single e-mail... and before he pretty much had managed himself.

He stuck with it and they ended up developing a great working relationship. He got used to her management style and she gave him more space eventually. He was really sad when she left.

I'm not saying it would be the same with you, but try to ride it out and see if you get used to it.