As you become more senior, it can get harder to see how your behavior affects collaboration. You may think you’re being helpful while others experience you as dominating conversations or micromanaging. Here’s how to recognize those patterns and replace them with more collaborative behaviors.
Get honest feedback. Ask peers and direct reports whether you give people enough space or get too involved in work they own. Invite real-time feedback so you can spot specific moments when you overstep.
Resist defensiveness. When criticism feels unfair, look for objective evidence. Review how much airtime you take in meetings or how often you check in on others’ work. Focus on becoming a more effective leader rather than defending your intentions.
Make specific behavioral substitutions. Pause before speaking or ask questions instead of supplying answers. To curb micromanaging, agree on the plan upfront and replace surprise check-ins with scheduled touchpoints.
Keep yourself accountable. Ask a trusted colleague to flag old habits when they appear. After important meetings, check whether you created enough space for others to contribute.
