Narcissism And Its Impact On The Work Environment
- Sep 29, 2023
- 4 min read
Written by: Franchelle B. Leggett, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
There is this trendy word floating around used to describe a psychological condition in which an individual has this excessive sense of self-importance. Not to mention the intense desire for admiration without regard for others. That word is narcissism! In today's world it has been highly expressed to identify a bad ex in a relationship, or a toxic person we meet in the world that treats us so badly. However, it is worth considering whether this is a new phenomenon or if it has been present for many years. Ideally, we have been introduced to this character trait in every aspect of our little perfectly imperfect world. Some carry it more than others, and some carry it louder than others.
What we are not talking about is how these same narcissistic traits these individuals have in their personal or public relationships also hold influential positions of power. We find ourselves at the call of these individuals so we can go home and provide for our families. According to BBC people with high degree of narcissism even get promoted faster than someone with a more humbled complex. These positions range from high-ranking executives and business owners to state representatives and council members, and that’s just to name a few. Now that I have your attention, think about it…Do you know what job or career placement you were in when you experienced a narcissistic personality? I do! Mine were working in a food place, and another I was in an executive position. Obviously both positions are on opposite sides of the track, but the traits were there. The most narcissistic experience I had in the workplace was when I was in the executive position. The morale of the environment was more fixated on sticking to the ego of the narcissist rather than installing a collaborative environment that served a common purpose. I had to subject myself to not being truthful, and steering away from the facts of operation just to say “You’re right, I’m wrong”. There was no safe place for communication, let alone was there any positive reinforcements to motivate hard work and self-aspirations. Constructive criticism was pondered through demeaning gestures and belittlement. Influences of this type of narcissistic workplace can be detrimental to building a positive foundation for business success. Some effects can even create toxic work culture where individuals exhibit manipulative and exploitative behavior. Domination can lead to lack of collaboration, trust issues, and interpersonal conflicts among team members. Not to mention the reduced team focus where individuals lose focus and lacks creativity. Moreso, how about how employee morale and well-being that become so emotionally draining and demoralizing because of the belittling and demeaning behavior towards certain genders or ethnicity. All of these things lead to damaging the mental health of others and increase the stress levels where decreased productivity exists. Then that’s where high employee turnover happens and the undervalued or exploited leave to seek employment elsewhere.
Can we turn the objective around? Yes, of course! Everything starts with empathy, understanding the effects and being willing to pose a chance for positive solutions. Where negativity is influenced, replace it with positivity. As a community of CEOs and executives we have to be willing to heighten the intellect in communication and leave pride and ego at the door. We have to teach it to our staff to pose a safe place for constructive feedback. Foster an environment that values mutual respect among team members, and reward collaboration.
Team members want to feel they are a part of something. Installing leadership development programs can help individuals to focus on emotional intelligence, and self-awareness. This will harvest a healthier work atmosphere and minimize the negative impact narcissism has on people. Most of all enforce consequences for narcissistic behavior so the mental health of others is protected, and workplaces can grow and develop past self-preservation. Knowing when the stakes are high; with the right communication and humility you allow facts to come out and lay to rest the illusion.
Narcissism in the workplace poses significant challenges for both individuals and organizations. By understanding its effects, organizations can take proactive measures to mitigate its negative impact. By promoting collaboration, developing empathetic leaders, and establishing clear boundaries, organizations can foster a healthier work environment and support the well-being and productivity of their employees.
Franchelle B. Leggett, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Franchelle B. Leggett is the founder and CEO of AegisTech Cleaning, a janitorial service company that specializes in providing quality cleaning services to businesses and organizations in the Houston, and Austin area. Born in Louisiana, and raised in Texas Franchelle comes from a family-oriented background and is a single mother of 3 beautiful children. Franchelle has always been passionate about entrepreneurship and social impact. She uses her company to advocate for second chances and promote economic empowerment in her community. With over 10 years of experience in business development and the cleaning industry, and 7 years in business, she’s paving a path to success for anyone with an interest.
