Hopefully, you work someplace you enjoy and you are highly qualified for your job. You may want to stay where you are for a long time, especially if the wage and benefits are good. You may not want anything to mess up this opportunity.
Unfortunately, as the saying goes, one bad apple spoils the bunch. You may find a co-worker, manager or employer so problematic that it is compromising your ability to keep enjoying your job. In many cases, when someone at work is creating problems, it’s very likely they have narcissistic qualities. The following signs may prove you’re dealing with a narcissist:
They focus on themselves
The world revolves around a narcissist. Everything they talk about is about them and, in most cases, they are either always the victor or the victim. That’s to say that, in their eyes, they are always doing something good and anything bad that happens is always someone else’s fault.
They’re insecure
A typical narcissist is insecure at heart. They constantly seek validation and praise of some kind. Someone who is insecure may even belittle others so they feel better about themselves.
They hold grudges
The most minor thing can upset a narcissist. Perhaps they didn’t get enough praise or someone simply disapproves of them. A narcissist will likely remember any perceived slight against them.
They feel entitled
Narcissists often believe that people should be coming to them and showering them with gifts and praise. Likewise, they believe that when they want something done, it must be done without question. If someone believes that they shouldn’t do what someone with narcissistic personality disorder says, then the narcissist may act aggressively or passive-aggressively.
They harass others
Narcissism can lead to workplace harassment. An individual’s belief in their own superiority may see others as beneath them and, as a result, undermine employees and co-workers. A narcissist may target someone’s gender, race, nationality or disabilities to push them out of the workplace. Likewise, a narcissist’s superiority complex may cause them to sexually harass others, believing they have the right to do so.
If you believe that you’re dealing with someone with a narcissistic personality disorder at your job, then you may need to know your legal rights concerning harassment. Depending on the details of your situation, you may be in a position to take action.
