Narcissists are characterized by a reluctance to collaborate and a habit of skirting the rules. However, when these people get into leadership positions, they can hurt teams and cultures. According to a new study:
- Narcissistic leaders can place entire organizations at risk because of their “diffused but pervasive ‘dark side’ impact” on the cultures they unintentionally create.
- Narcissists prefer cultures that “blur ethical boundaries” and undermine collaboration.
- When promoted to leadership roles, narcissists often encourage rules and employee engagement that border on unethical and encourage unhealthy competition and lack of cooperation.
The study authors suggest that organizations need to use the interview process to flag narcissistic behaviors or tendencies and seek hires who actively embrace and support collaboration, ethics, and teamwork.
