Interrupting and monopolizing conversations: Narcissists tend to present as self-absorbed, and they prioritize their thoughts and needs before everyone else's. As a result, they often interrupt, ignore, or hog the attention.
*Exhibiting signs of narcissistic behaviors, such as a grandiose sense of self-importance, fantasized talent or expertise, or arrogance. *Focusing on self-image and ensuring that others perform in a way that elevates one's own public image or reputation.
Narcissistic bosses will start being cold or cruel towards their employee as a way of trying to maintain control over them even after the relationship has ended, because this narcissistic boss believes that if someone leaves, then he or she must be "better" than them, which feeds the person's false sense of superiority ...
The main issue arises when they begin interfering with the professional lives of their coworkers. They try to influence them negatively by undermining their morale and showing no appreciation or sympathy towards them. Narcissists always appear superior and look down on their coworkers.
They use anger and aggression as a tool
Some bosses can lose their temper on occasion. But narcissistic bosses use anger and aggression as a “manipulation tool” to control employees at work, Morin says. Those bosses might pound their fist on a desk, raise their voice or humiliate employees who speak out against them.
But there are some common traits of people with narcissistic behavior that you may be able to spot. A common sign of people with narcissism is the belief that they are superior to others and deserve special treatment. They believe that others should be obedient to their wishes and that the rules don't apply to them.
Narcissists don't react well to being ignored and often try to punish the person ignoring them. Ignoring a narcissist may result in them trying to get your attention through various means, including apologizing and begging for forgiveness or smearing you to others.
Ignore, but don't neglect
Instead of playing into their weaknesses, avoid it by staying objective and calm. When you deserve credit, speak up and take it, but resist outward hostility toward the narcissist. For instance, don't say, “I did the majority of the work here, not Jane/Joe”. That comes across aggressive.
Toxic coworkers are often unsatisfied with their own personal performance, position, pay, or experience in the workforce and they've allowed that dissatisfaction to come to such a boiling point that they become detractors within the culture, says Robert H.
It comes hand-in-hand with this that narcissists hate being criticised or called out. Which is exactly why there's one word in particular narcissistic people cannot stand: "no".
Narcissists are highly sensitive to criticism or any perceived threat to their self-image, and they will go to great lengths to protect it. If you criticize them or challenge their dominance, you will trigger a defensive response.
Grandiose sense of self-importance
Grandiosity is the defining characteristic of narcissism. More than just arrogance or vanity, grandiosity is an unrealistic sense of superiority. Narcissists believe they are unique or “special” and can only be understood by other special people.
“To what extent do you agree with this statement: 'I am a narcissist.'”
Final Thoughts on the Red Flags of a Narcissist
Narcissistic individuals often exhibit traits such as a lack of empathy, manipulative behavior, and an inflated sense of self-importance. It's essential to understand that dealing with a narcissist can be draining and challenging.
If you're arguing with a narcissist, being firm with your boundaries will help you stand your ground. You should also acknowledge their feelings because it may help soothe them. Don't hesitate to step away if you need to step away from the conversation to gather your thoughts.
They then go on to play with difficult emotions like shock, awe, and guilt to maintain control over their victim. Narcissists also gaslight or practice master manipulation, weakening and destabilizing their victims; finally, they utilize positive and negative emotions or moments to trick others.