Once you’ve seen the world through the lens of narcissism, you may be horrified to discover that many top jobs go to narcissists. Perhaps you see narcissistic signs in your boss at work. Or your Doctor, or Priest. And don’t get me started on politicians!
It seems that narcissists are disproportionately represented in top jobs. The jobs that carry authority and power. Why is this?
There’s several reasons why narcissists land top jobs. Here’s some of them…
Please Check Out This Short Video To Aid Your Understanding…
Narcissists Crave Power And Status
Most narcissists crave power. They love telling people what to do, and being an authority figure. And some jobs give them this power.
Narcissists are naturally attracted to jobs with power. So they’re likely to be over represented when they throw their hats in the ring. And the more narcissists that apply, the more likely one is to succeed.
And some narcissists won’t rest until they’ve landed a job with power. Making it almost inevitable.
Prepared To Big Themselves Up
Narcissists think they’re awesome. And are dumbfounded that the world fails to see their brilliance. So they make it their life’s work to brag, and show the world what they’re missing.
This translates well in the employment arena. Neuro-typicals are usually more modest about their achievements. And uncomfortable singing their own praises too much. This gives narcissists a clear advantage. Because they’re happy to shout from the roof tops how great they are!
Not only does this help narcissists in interviews, but it helps them move up the corporate ladder. It’s surprising how many people are taken in by someone who unashamedly sells themselves.
Narcissists Are Prepared To Lie
Most narcissists lie to astonishing degrees to land a top job. Yes, most people embellish their CV’s, but narcissists are incredibly creative with the truth.
Narcissists have a sense of entitlement. And believe they deserve the top jobs. Even if they have to bend the truth to breaking point.
Narcissists don’t consider their mistruths as lies. They delude themselves into believing them, because they so badly want to be great. And believing their own lies makes them more convincing. As far as a narcissist is concerned, their greatness is a fact!
Points Systems
These days most interviews use point scoring systems. And points are scored for past achievements and qualifications. There’s little consideration for if someone’s genuine, or likely to get along with their peers.
This is perfect for narcissists. They can big up their past achievements and embellish them for all their worth. And if they come across as arrogant or insincere, the points system doesn’t usually cater for this.
Personally I’m not a fan of the points system for job applications. Whilst it reduces the chances of discrimination, it takes away the human element of deciding who’s best for the job. An employer may know in their heart that someone isn’t right for the job. But if they outscore the others, then their hands are tied.
Schmooze With The Boss
If a narcissist wants promotion, they may suck up to the boss to get it. Narcissists have little shame with these things. And may embark in a deep friendship with their boss if it gets them what they want.
Neuro-typicals don’t have it in them. Not to the extent narcissists do. They feel fake and wrong pretending to be friends. And whilst they may be extra nice to their boss, they usually stop short of going down the friendship route.
The narcissist may spend years befriending their boss. And be an absolute diamond of a comrade. Naturally when a top job comes up, the boss favours their “friend”.
Confidence
Narcissists vastly over estimate themselves. Thinking they’re infinitely more intelligent than they are. But this has its advantages in the work place.
Narcissists have an air of confidence. Like they can handle anything thrown their way.
And whilst this may be false confidence, it reassures the decision makers. Because they need to know this person is capable.
Whilst neuro-typicals may be more honest, narcissists are more likely to say what employers want to hear.
Here’s the difference – A neuro-typical may be “sure” they can handle things. But a narcissist “knows” they can.
They’re Hierarchical
Narcissists thrive in competitive environments. EVERYTHING is a competition anyway. And because they spend most of their lives competing, it becomes second nature.
Narcissists instinctively know who to suck up to, and who to crush. And they’re prepared to manipulate to get what they want.
When a narcissist enters a room, they size everyone up. And decide who’s above who. Then look to climb the pecking order.
Narcissists have more practice navigating hierarchies than neuro-typicals. Because this is how they live life. And this gives them a BIG advantage when progressing in the work place.
Narcissistic Workplaces
Some workplaces get infected with narcissists. Over time, narcissists rise through the ranks. Because they’re so hungry for it. Until they hold more influence, and may even become involved with hiring and firing.
This leads to more narcissists coming into the mix. Because it’s natural to hire people that are more like yourself. And some of these narcissistic hires may climb the ladder over time.
Not only this, but narcissists are more likely to promote other narcissists. Because they don’t want neuro-typicals in high positions, in case they outshine them, and gain more popularity.
So the sad reality is that some workplaces become infected with narcissists. And because they hold so much power and influence between them, there’s little you can do, except leave.
Final Thoughts
Narcissists are over represented in the top jobs. They’re more attracted to them, and more ruthless in their pursuit. Plus their high levels of false confidence makes them appear to be made of the right stuff.
If you work under a narcissist, you may want to consider moving jobs. Whilst narcissists can be great motivators and risk takers, their man-management skills often leave a lot to be desired. They usually have a “my way or the highway” approach. And are difficult to work with.
Whilst narcissists are over represented in the top power positions, all’s not lost. Narcissists make up a small percentage of the population. Some studies estimate around 6%. So they’re still in the minority when it comes to the top jobs.
If you find yourself working under a narcissist, it’s worth moving. The chances are your next boss won’t be a narcissist. And you can reverse any damage done.
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