Jul 11 in Psychology
How a narcissist can gain leverage in business
A narcissist in business often employs a range of manipulative tactics to gain leverage and assert control over their environment. They may start by using their charm and charisma to build a network of loyal supporters, often flattering and praising key individuals to secure their allegiance. For example, a narcissistic manager might excessively compliment a subordinate's work, creating a sense of indebtedness and loyalty, only to later exploit this relationship for personal gain.
Deceit and misinformation are other common tools in their arsenal. A narcissist might spread false rumours about a competitor’s capabilities or intentions to create doubt and mistrust, thereby weakening their position while simultaneously positioning themselves as the more reliable and trustworthy option. This can be particularly effective in high-stakes negotiations or competitive promotion scenarios.
Narcissists also excel at playing on the insecurities and ambitions of others. For instance, they might exploit a colleague’s fear of job insecurity by promising support or advancement, only to retract these promises once their own goals are achieved. They can manipulate group dynamics by subtly pitting team members against each other, fostering a competitive or hostile work environment that distracts from their own manipulations.
In meetings and decision-making processes, a narcissist might dominate conversations, dismissing or belittling others' ideas to assert their own dominance and intelligence. They may take undue credit for successful projects while deflecting blame for failures onto others, thereby maintaining an unblemished image of competence and success.
By creating an atmosphere of uncertainty and tension, narcissists can often position themselves as the stable, decisive leaders needed to navigate the chaos they themselves have sown. This self-created narrative of indispensability allows them to amass power and influence, often at the expense of organisational health and colleague well-being. Their actions, driven by an insatiable need for admiration and control, can ultimately lead to a toxic workplace culture characterised by distrust, fear, and resentment.
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How a narcissist can gain leverage in business
