My new manager is destroying my confidence with micro-management & bad communication
APPRENTICE star and West Ham United vice-chair Karren Brady answers your careers questions.
Here, Karren gives advice to a reader who wants to negotiate a fair redundancy after 20 years at her job.
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1
Karren Brady gives you career advice
Q:
For the past three years, I've worked in change communications.
It was my perfect job and enabled me to thrive.
Unfortunately, my employer got rid of my position and sent me back to a previous role in a different department, which I now find difficult.
I'm currently on the waiting list for a neurodiversity assessment.
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I've told my new manager this, but they don't understand and work in a way that makes things a struggle and affects my focus.
They also aren't very clear in their communication and they micro-manage me – even asking me about personal appointments in my calendar.
I want to move forward – whether in this company or a different one – but my confidence is being knocked every day.
Do you have any advice?
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Amber, via email
A:
It doesn't sound like your employer is supporting you or playing to your strengths.
The Apprentice's Karren Brady gives career advice in game of Have You Ever?
Request a meeting with your manager to calmly explain how the current set-up is affecting your ability to do your best work.
Be specific about what's difficult, such as micro-management, unclear instructions and being questioned on personal matters, and how this is affecting your focus and confidence.
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Then explain what you need instead – more clarity, trust and autonomy.
It's also worth sharing how much you thrived in your previous role and why.
At the same time, speak to occupational health or HR about your neurodiversity assessment, as you may be eligible for reasonable adjustments. while at work.
Keep a written record of concerning interactions, and don't stop advocating for yourself.
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Whether it's within this company or somewhere new, you deserve to be in a role and environment that supports your needs and allows you to grow.
Got a careers question for Karren? Email
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