If you suspect that your coworker might be a narcissist, you’re not alone. The term “narcissism” has gained popularity on social media, but it’s often misunderstood. According to psychologists, narcissism is when someone thinks too highly of themselves and constantly seeks attention and praise. However, they lack awareness of how they come across and often ignore others’ feelings. This can create a toxic work environment.
Here are 8 signs that your coworker might be a narcissist, explained in simple terms, with credit to Parade for these insights:
- They Lack Empathy: Narcissists don’t care much about other people’s feelings. If a coworker is struggling, a narcissist won’t genuinely care or try to help. They only focus on their own needs.
- They Dominate Conversations: Ever notice that one person always tries to take over discussions and make everything about themselves? That’s a classic narcissist move. They love to talk about their achievements and get upset when interrupted.
- They Belittle Others: Narcissists often put others down to make themselves feel more important. This can create tension and conflict in the workplace, making it hard for teams to work together.
- They Crave Constant Praise: Narcissists need to be admired all the time. They might seek out prestigious titles or constantly brag about who they know, just to keep the compliments coming.
- They Manipulate and Blame: Narcissists often lie or manipulate situations to get ahead. They don’t care about who gets hurt in the process, as long as they come out on top.
- They Take Credit for Others’ Work: If a coworker is always taking credit for things they didn’t do, they might be a narcissist. They’ll do whatever it takes to make sure they get the praise and recognition, even if it’s not deserved.
- They Make Unethical Decisions: Narcissists might make decisions that benefit them but harm the company. They don’t care about ethics or integrity if it means they can get ahead.
- They Have Angry Outbursts: Narcissists can’t handle criticism or rejection. When their ego is hurt, they might explode in anger, lashing out at others.
If you notice these red flags, setting boundaries is key. Narcissists often try to charm and manipulate, so it’s important to consistently reinforce your limits. Remember, it’s about protecting your peace in the workplace.
These insights, shared by Parade, can help you recognize narcissistic behavior and manage it effectively.