Nearly 20% of Recent College Grads Prefer Micromanagement, Citing Early-Career and Economic Anxieties

A portion of today’s emerging young workforce is showing a preference for micromanagement — and some experts attribute this to deeper anxieties and economic uncertainties faced by recent college graduates in today’s labor market. 

Nearly 1 in 5 (19%) of recent graduates said they prefer a hands-on management style, according to a study published by Intelligent. This inclination towards micromanagement primarily stems from a desire to find support and guidance as young professionals face unfamiliar work environments.  

Among those who say they favor the hands-on management approach, 83% cite feeling more supported, 73% believe it helps them stay on task, and 63% say it reduces their anxiety. 

The study also shows how workplace anxiety is pervasive among new entrants to the job market. The data reveals only 17% report no work-related anxiety at all, while 16% of recent graduates experience high levels of anxiety five or more days a week.  

This widespread unease in the workplace among recent college graduates contributes to their reliance on their managers — which is further reflected in what they expect from their supervisors. It’s reported that 40% check in with their manager more than four times a day and 43% contact their managers outside work hours.  

Nearly 30% of them “expect their managers to resolve all personal issues affecting their work, and 24% expect their managers to take responsibility for respondents’ shortcomings,” according to Intelligent’s findings.  

Despite the fast rise and acceptance of flexible working environments in the U.S., 88% of recent college graduates in the study expressed the preference for in-office work at least once a week.  

Among the reasons cited by individuals for their work environment preference are increased productivity (74%), better concentration (64%), and the opportunity for social interaction with coworkers (45%). A notable 43% also mentioned that being in the office provides more face-to-face time with their managers. 

The survey results suggest that employers should keep these preferences and concerns in mind when planning how to effectively manage young workers. Providing balanced support, regular feedback, and a positive work environment will be key to helping these new graduates adjust and succeed in their jobs.