Employee problems can happen at any level of an organisation – even senior management. Unfortunately for employers, some of the most charismatic and charming team members will also be narcissists and, they may even be managing other employees. So what do you do if you have a narcissist working in your organisation?
How Do You Identify A Narcissist?
In terms of diagnosing a narcissist, psychiatrists, psychologists and the like, are best placed to identify this type of personality. However, in terms of workplace behaviour, a narcissist is likely to:
– Belittle colleagues to demonstrate their superior capabilities
– Have an inflated perception of their own abilities
– Use drama to hide any underperformance issues
– Develop close relationships with up-line management to secure their position in the organisation
– Use distraction techniques to avoid receiving management feedback they don’t want to hear
How Do You Manage A Narcissist?
Narcissists are extremely challenging to manage because they often have an innate ability to identify your weaknesses in order to manipulate you in any way they can.
But, according to Elizabeth Williamson, a South Australian Counsellor and Coach, there are 4 conflict resolution tactics that can help you manage a narcissistic employee.
1. Remain Objective And Observe Behaviour Patterns
The behaviour of a narcissist will often follow the same pattern. By stepping back to observe the behaviour, you are less likely to be engulfed by their drama so you can remain objective.
2. Stay Calm – Even When Things Become Volatile
When a narcissist is under pressure or feels like their authority is being threatened, they will often become highly emotional. You can expect to see irrational behaviour, tantrums and callous comments. While it’s extremely difficult to ignore such behaviour, don’t give it oxygen. It’s important to stay cool, calm and unemotional.
3. Understand Your Own Triggers
We all have our breaking points. However, when dealing with volatile people, it’s important to remain detached, dispassionate and calm. Understand your own stress triggers and use techniques you know will help you stay grounded.
4. Stay On Point
Narcissists will derail feedback and conversations they don’t want to listen to by introducing side issues or changing topics. To counter this, ensure your feedback is clear and concise. It’s important to stay on point and ignore anything that is irrelevant to the topic. It’s also a good idea to back up the conversation with a written summary.
Phone A Friend
Due to their volatility and distraction tactics, Elizabeth Williamson recommends you invite another person along to assist you during a difficult management conversation with a narcissist.
The team at End2End Business Solutions are skilled negotiators and have extensive experience dealing with all sorts of personality and performance problems. If you have an employee at any level of your organisation who is proving difficult to manage, call End2End on 02 8977 4002.