Dear Dr. Mimi:
My boss micromanages all of my tasks constantly even though I have been in my current position for two years and have over 10 years’ experience performing this type of work. This makes me feel incompetent, as if I am a kid in an adult environment. How do I approach this subject with my boss so that his behavior can change? I do not want to be insubordinate; I just want my boss to trust me to do my job and stop being so controlling.
—Frustrated

Dear Frustrated:
Do everything you can to gain your boss’ trust and try to understand what motivates him. Try to anticipate the tasks your boss expects, get them done ahead of time and let him know that they are completed. Steer clear of things that agitate him and tailor your responses to his preferences. Be an overachiever and show your boss that you deserve his trust to work on your own. Follow the rules and company protocol, be reliable and do not give your boss any reason to reinforce his belief that employees cannot be trusted. Ask to take on small projects on your own and provide updates proactively. Pick something that is a low priority on your boss’ list and do a stellar job. If your boss’ behavior does not change, have a talk with him. Sometimes people are not aware of their behavior toward others and need someone to bring this to their attention.
—Dr. Mimi