A micromanager can be described as someone who watches and measures their employees and projects every step of the way. They avoid delegation of decisions and prefer to be very hands-on. Many people who have worked for micromanagers complain of feelings of frustration and distrust, and feeling wearisome or demoralized. This type of management behavior can lead to disengagement - the employee will show up and put their time in, but likely little else.

Micromanaging almost always does a lot more damage than good. Dr. Paul E. Adams discusses how people that insist on micromanaging display symptoms of insecurity and paranoia – the micromanager lacks faith and trust in their employees.