# How New Managers Can Coach Underperformers Without Micromanaging

Page: https://stenobird.com/podcast/new-manager-conversations-with-fexingo-first-90-days-managing-former-peers-and-leadership-basics-7871636/how-new-managers-can-coach-underperformers-without-micromanaging
Text version: https://stenobird.com/podcast/new-manager-conversations-with-fexingo-first-90-days-managing-former-peers-and-leadership-basics-7871636/how-new-managers-can-coach-underperformers-without-micromanaging.md
Podcast: [New Manager Conversations with Fexingo: First 90 Days, Managing Former Peers, and Leadership Basics](https://stenobird.com/podcast/new-manager-conversations-with-fexingo-first-90-days-managing-former-peers-and-leadership-basics-7871636)
Published: 2026-06-18T04:55:23+00:00
Episode link: https://audio.fexingo.com/business/new-manager-conversations/episode-0059.mp3
Audio file: https://audio.fexingo.com/business/new-manager-conversations/episode-0059.mp3
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JSON: https://stenobird.com/v1/public/podcasts/new-manager-conversations-with-fexingo-first-90-days-managing-former-peers-and-leadership-basics-7871636/episodes/how-new-managers-can-coach-underperformers-without-micromanaging
Duration seconds: 533

## Resource

In this episode of New Manager Conversations, Lucas and Luna tackle one of the trickiest situations a new manager faces: coaching a direct report who is underperforming without falling into the micromanagement trap. Using the case of a marketing manager at a mid-sized SaaS company named Priya, they break down a four-step framework: diagnose the root cause (skill vs. will), set a transparent 'get better' timeline, use structured check-ins that empower rather than control, and document progress without turning into a paper-pusher. They also discuss the emotional challenge of giving honest feedback to someone who is trying hard but falling short, and how to know when coaching has run its course. This episode is packed with phrases to use, phrases to avoid, and a specific template for a 30-day improvement plan. Perfect for any new manager facing their first performance coaching conversation. #NewManager #Coaching #Underperformance #Micromanagement #Feedback #Leadership #First90Days #PerformanceImprovement #SaaS #Marketing #PriyasCase #SkillVsWill #30DayPlan #CareerGrowth #ManagementBasics #TeamDevelopment #FexingoBusiness #BusinessPodcast Keep every episode free: buymeacoffee.com/fexingo

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