Micromanagement is a management style characterized by behaviors such as an excessive focus on observing and controlling subordinates and an obsession with details.
Micromanagement generally has a negative connotation, suggesting a lack of freedom and trust in the workplace,[1][2] and an excessive focus on details[3] at the expense of the "big picture" and larger goals.
[1] Merriam-Webster's online dictionary defines micromanagement as "manage[ment] especially with excessive control or attention on details.
[1] Rather than giving general instructions on smaller tasks and then devoting time to supervising larger concerns, the micromanager monitors and assesses every step of a process and avoids delegation of decisions.
This micro focus on trivial matters often delays decisions, clouds overall goals and objectives, restricts the flow of information between employees, and guides the various aspects of a project in different and often opposed directions.
The most extreme cases of micromanagement constitute a management pathology closely related to workplace bullying and narcissistic behavior.
Preventatives include clear delegation, a well defined goal, and a firm grasp of constraints and dependencies[clarify].
[citation needed] Reduced Team Cohesion Micromanagement can create a divide between managers and employees, leading to a lack of trust and collaboration.
Employees may feel demotivated and disengaged, leading to higher turnover rates and difficulty attracting top talent.