Leadership Principles - Avoid Micromanging Employees

I enjoyed this article and agree in principle with most of the recommendations. While leaders must manage by walking around and inspecting work, they should also allow the team members some space as professionals to do their job well.

Folks who are constantly watched and critiqued on every move they make will become nervous and less effective in their work. They may withdraw ideas and participation from the manager and team, that can help make essential differences on the project.

Article: If you micromanage, no one wins
http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/career/?p=297

QUOTE: So do you want to break the micromanaging habit? The Dallas Morning News offers this list of tips to avoid micromanaging:

Part 1 - Methods to change leadership styles

* Focus on communication and trust.
* Assign tasks that include clear, specific, and time-bound expectations.
* Allow employees to figure out how they’ll accomplish the task.
* Set up status reports that fit the scope of the assignment but aren’t too burdensome.
* Let employees know that you’re trying to change and give them a safe way to point it out if you slip.

Part 2 - Be a leader

Leadership skills bring more value and will increase satisfaction for everyone, including you. Options include:

* Investing in each employee through coaching, challenging work, and development.
* Removing barriers to success that your team members face.
* Expressing a meaningful vision to your employees.

Below is also an additional related article:

Article: Can a Micromanager be cured
http://blogs.techrepublic.com.com/career/?p=196