You're working remotely and your boss is micromanaging you. How can you set boundaries?

1 Communicate clearly

One of the main reasons why bosses micromanage is because they lack trust and visibility. They may worry that you are not working hard enough, meeting deadlines, or following instructions. To ease their anxiety, you need to communicate clearly and frequently. Update them on your progress, achievements, and challenges. Use the tools and platforms that they prefer, such as email, chat, or video calls. Ask for feedback and clarification when needed. Show them that you are reliable, accountable, and transparent.

2 Negotiate expectations

Another reason why bosses micromanage is because they have unrealistic or unclear expectations. They may want you to work in a certain way, follow a specific schedule, or report every detail. To avoid confusion and conflict, you need to negotiate expectations with your boss. Discuss your goals, priorities, and deliverables. Agree on the scope, timeline, and quality of your work. Set boundaries on your availability, communication, and autonomy. Make sure that you and your boss are on the same page and respect each other's preferences.

3 Focus on results

A third reason why bosses micromanage is because they focus on the process rather than the outcome. They may want to control every aspect of your work, from how you plan, organize, and execute your tasks. To demonstrate your value and competence, you need to focus on results. Show your boss that you can deliver high-quality work on time and within budget. Highlight your achievements, contributions, and impact. Use data and evidence to support your claims. Show your boss that you can be trusted to work independently and efficiently.

4 Provide feedback

A fourth reason why bosses micromanage is because they are unaware or resistant to change. They may not realize how their behavior affects you and your work. They may also be reluctant to adapt to the new realities of remote work. To help your boss change and improve, you need to provide feedback. Share your feelings, concerns, and suggestions. Be respectful, constructive, and specific. Give examples of how your boss's micromanagement has hindered or helped your work. Explain how you would like your boss to support you and your team.

5 Seek support

A fifth reason why bosses micromanage is because they are insecure or stressed. They may have personal or professional issues that make them feel threatened or overwhelmed. They may also lack the skills or resources to manage a virtual team effectively. To cope with your boss's micromanagement, you need to seek support. Reach out to your colleagues, friends, or family for advice, empathy, and encouragement. Join online communities or networks of remote workers who face similar challenges. Seek professional help if you feel depressed, anxious, or burned out.

6 Be proactive

A final reason why bosses micromanage is because they are used to it or don't know any better. They may have a habit or a style of management that works for them or their organization. They may also lack the knowledge or the motivation to learn new ways of leading a virtual team. To influence your boss's behavior, you need to be proactive. Initiate conversations, propose solutions, and suggest alternatives. Show your boss the benefits of giving you more freedom, flexibility, and responsibility. Inspire your boss to trust you and your team more.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?