Micro-managers are work vampires who lurk and choke the growth of their own people. Whether it is an executive assistant or a team of virtual assistants that you need to delegate work to, make sure you aren't the boss that you may begin to fear yourself or have them fear you. Micromanagement is no joke and employees are often uninspired and less productive when their work is constantly being dictated for them. Here are a few tips to help you make sure you aren't becoming a micro-manager:
1. You hired them for their expertise, so make good use of it. Micromanaged virtual assistants have complained that they accepted the job because they knew they were capable of producing quality output and yet they feel choked by the boss' constant inspection. Social psychology might tell you that people perform better when they are being watched, but contrary to that belief, individuals also feel stifled and cannot act freely.
2. Create a simple training program. You are the boss and they are your assistants. If there is anybody who knows the job best, it should be you. So create a simple training program to encourage their interest and enthusiasm for the project. This should suffice for trusting that they will do their work well.
3. Allow them to make decisions. While you might be handling the big decisions, I'm sure there are everyday tasks that they can decide for themselves. Giving them this assurance can help boost their self esteem. This is also a great reflection on your self-esteem as well, knowing that you are not a paranoid employer.
4. Welcome error and take it as a learning experience. Virtual assistants will definitely make mistakes. It is unavoidable. But just because a mistake occurs, it does not mean you need to punish them. Welcome it calmly and turn the situation around by encouraging them to move forward and trust in their instincts.
Managing your work may be no easy feat. Especially for those who expect things to turn up perfect all the time. Let me tell you right now that nothing will appear perfect for you if you mind remains too narrow. Find out what you can learn from your assistant we you work together and perhaps you will have a happier working relationship with one another.