Leadership and Change Management

Chapter 10 : Narcissistic Leaders

Understanding Narcissism

Characteristics of Narcissistic Leaders

Compelling vision
Charisma
Closeness leads to isolation Emotionally isolated
Lack of empathy
Bad mentors Relentless and Ruthless, Workaholics, Loyalty towards the organization Power hungry

Operating style on a narcissistic leaders

Manipulative
Controls communication Controls decision making Builds empire
Craves visibility
Blames other for failures

Balancing a narcissistic leader

Chapter Summary

Narcissism is often associated with egotism, self-centeredness, and exaggerated self-love. But these are only instances of extreme narcissism. Some amount of narcissism is essential for functioning in human society. On the positive side, narcissistic leaders are known for their compelling vision for their companies. They are often charismatic and hold sway over their followers. Charisma certainly promotes closeness.

Subordinates come close to their charismatic boss easily. But it can also result in a leader’s isolation. A narcissistic leader gets increasingly self-assured as the number of his followers increases. Then he starts taking spontaneous decisions without much thought and consideration. A narcissistic leader is concerned about creating a salable image of himself all the time.

To some extent he acts in a way that gives rise to the image he wants to project. But most of the time he creates the image by controlling communication and information related to him and his department. Narcissistic leaders are notorious for wanting to make the minutest decisions. They are inclined to make decisions not only for themselves but for others as well. They do not give their subordinates enough freedom to make decisions.

A narcissistic leader tries to build a personal empire. Building empire requires the handling of more responsibility, which brings money, power and people under his control. A narcissistic leader believes that visibility is crucial to maintain the grand image he has created. He uses all the available means to make himself more visible. A narcissistic leader does not accept and learn from his failures.

When there is no way to escape the consequences, he blames the circumstances, or even his own subordinates for the failures. Narcissistic leaders can recognize their drawbacks, and transform themselves, with the help of psychoanalysis and through some amount of dependence on trusted associates.

Next Chapter>>