
Work It
How to know if your boss is a narcissist (and what to do)
Sep 15, 2024
Amy Ou, an associate professor at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University Business School, delves into the red flags of narcissistic leadership. She explains how to recognize when a boss is dismissive and self-centered, impacting workplace dynamics. The conversation reveals strategies to manage such challenging relationships, promoting supportive communication. Ou also addresses the complexities of career advancement in these situations, emphasizing how personal dynamics can influence promotions more than performance alone.
26:49
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Narcissistic leaders may excel in gaining recognition and driving innovation, but can also disrupt team dynamics and lead to poor decisions.
- Employees can navigate narcissistic leadership by fostering trust through humility and building supportive relationships with peers or second-in-commands.
Deep dives
Narcissism in Leadership
Narcissism is often present in leadership roles, where individuals may exhibit self-promoting behaviors that contribute to their rise in the ranks. CEOs often leverage these traits to attract attention and gain recognition for their achievements, which can be vital in a competitive business landscape. However, unchecked narcissism can lead to detrimental workplace dynamics, as these leaders might prioritize risk-taking initiatives or flashy strategies that may not align with the organization’s best interests. The decisions made by such leaders often aim to garner personal glory rather than reflect sound judgment, sometimes resulting in costly mergers or high-risk ventures that fail to deliver expected outcomes.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.