"How do I manage Narcissistic colleagues?"

The question i'm asked on a daily basis....

Narcissism in the workplace can be characterised by a colleague who consistently exhibits an inflated sense of self-importance, requires excessive admiration, lacks empathy towards others, and often pursues selfish or ego-driven goals at the expense of others. Here are five ways to navigate narcissistic behaviour at work:

1. Avoid Flattery Traps and Set Boundaries:Avoid Excessive Flattery: While it's tempting to flatter or appease a narcissistic coworker to keep the peace, doing so might encourage their behaviour. Recognise when you're being pulled into their need for admiration and try not to feed into it excessively.Set Clear Boundaries: Narcissists might attempt to overstep boundaries or demand more of your time and energy than is appropriate. Politely but firmly set limits on your interactions.
2. Maintain Objectivity and Document Interactions:When working on projects or discussing matters with a narcissistic colleague, stick to facts and avoid getting pulled into emotional discussions. Being objective can prevent situations from escalating.Keep records of your interactions, especially if you believe a colleague may misrepresent them later. This includes saving emails, noting decisions made in meetings, and any instances where they may have tried to take undue credit.
3. Seek Support and Collaborate:Speak with Trusted Colleagues: Sharing experiences and strategies with coworkers can provide a broader perspective and emotional support. They might also offer insight into navigating tricky situations.Involve Team Efforts: By promoting teamwork and collaboration, it can be harder for a narcissistic individual to dominate or take undue credit.
4. Avoid Direct Confrontations:Narcissistic individuals can be very sensitive to criticism. When you need to address issues, approach them with constructive feedback rather than direct confrontation, which could escalate into conflict.Focus on the task or issue at hand rather than making it personal.
5. Prioritise Your Well-being:If interactions with a narcissistic colleague are taking a toll on your mental and emotional health, consider seeking guidance from HR or supervisors.Look into stress-reducing techniques, such as mindfulness or meditation, to help you stay grounded.

Navigating narcissistic behaviour requires a balance of assertiveness, patience, and self-preservation. Remember that while it's crucial to maintain professional relationships, you should never feel obligated to tolerate abusive or harmful behaviours.