building team solutions blog

These days the term ‘helicopter mom’ is be applied to everything in a variety of ways. I’ve heard people say ‘helicopter manager’ or ‘helicopter neighbor’ and so on. But what does this mean and is it really a bad thing?

Basically, helicopter is a nicer (I guess?) way of saying micro-manager. So, we have to examine if being a micro-manager really is a bad thing, especially in the work place.  Micro-managing can actually help some employees. But, you have to use this tool, like any tool, appropriately.

Here are some tips to know when to helicopter an employee and how; 

1. Decide how you delegate work.  If you’re truly concerned about how a project or task is going to be completed- don’t assign it to someone who you will have to constantly monitor. And, if the person who should receive the task can’t because of this factor- question why that person is working for you in the first place.

2.  When you do assign a task clearly explain the expectations and deadlines. Also note that the project is very important and that you will be frequently checking in.

3.  When you do check in, do so politely. You don’t need to be a police helicopter when you can be a tourist helicopter. What is the difference? One is checking on expecting problems. The other type is checking in to observer progress.

Being a helicopter boss or owner doesn’t always have to be a bad thing. In fact, it shows you care. The reasons why you may have to helicopter, however, can bring up some questions about the staff you have selected to work for you. If you not an occasional helicopter- but a constant one then your hiring practices may have to be reviewed.

Britanie Olvera, CEO