Egoist boss making your life miserable? Harvard Professor on how to handle office drama

Sometimes, the bully is not limited to classrooms and the playground. They can be found, suited, booted, and the one you report to. It’s not exactly uncommon for narcissistic personalities to end up at the top of the corporate totem pole. Often people, who possess the so-called ‘Dark Triad’ traits - psychopathy, narcissism, and Machiavellism, can not just survive but thrive in competitive environments and climb the ranks with ease.

Overstating your achievements, feeling entitled to authority, and being overly confident are typically rewarded in the workplace and linked to narcissism.

Ironically, the traits that help someone with narcissistic tendencies ascend to a management position are the same ones that render them ineffective leaders, explains Amy Edmondson, a professor at Harvard Business School who studies psychological safety in the workplace.


However, if you are not a narcissist, or worse, if you are an empath, you may find yourself at the mercy of such an individual. Here’ how you can identify the narcissistic boss.

They Hog All The Credit

A narcissistic can’t bear to share the limelight or give credit where it’s due. Narcissistic managers often claim credit for successes while deflecting blame for failures, either by overtly blaming others or external factors, says Amy Edmondson.

Their reluctance to give credit may be hidden behind generic praise.

"You'll notice they might vaguely thank the team, and it quickly becomes clear that they are self-centered," Edmondson notes.

They also feel threatened by successful employees, making them even less likely to praise their subordinates, explains Dr. Ramani Durvasula, a clinical psychologist in Los Angeles who specializes in narcissistic and antagonistic personality types, to CNBC Make It.

They Never Listen

An effective manager understands the importance of considering input from everyone, regardless of their position. In contrast, narcissists, convinced that only their ideas matter, find it difficult to listen to others.

“They don’t seem to be paying attention or learning from others,” Edmondson explains. “Their thinking remains unchanged by what others contribute.”

They Demand Your Attention

A narcissist feels threatened by praise directed at a colleague and often envies others' successes or recognition.

“If a team member excels, it feels natural to me to express appreciation,” Edmondson says. “Praising you reflects well on me, and as your boss, it enhances my reputation. However, narcissists view it differently. They see it as a missed opportunity.”

Admiration or respect for someone else disturbs them, even if that person’s achievements could enhance their own image as a manager.

How To Deal With A Narcissist At Work?

Once you identify the indicators, you can take action to reduce the damage.

• Finding a mentor, ideally outside your organization, can provide you with a fresh viewpoint.

• If you’re aiming for a raise or promotion, don't rely on your boss’s support. Instead, maintain records of your contributions to the success of particular projects.

• When presenting an idea to your boss, make sure to include others in the email communication.