Washington, Aug 8 (Inditop.com) People who work for a narcissistic boss find their stress levels shooting up and output going down, a new study has confirmed. They also have less job satisfaction and are more distressed overall.
In recent years, the motivations of business leaders have come under increased scrutiny as a result of behaviour that caused both their employees and the public considerable distress.
Unquestionably, many of the documented lapses in judgement can be traced to selfishness and a failure to check one’s ego.
Wayne Hochwarter, management professor at the Florida State University College of Business (FSUCB), asked more than 1,200 employees to provide opinions regarding the narcissistic tendencies of their immediate supervisor.
Thirty one percent reported that their boss is prone to exaggerate his or her accomplishments to look good in front of others; 27 percent reported that their boss brags to others to get praise.
Twenty five percent reported that their boss had an inflated view of himself or herself; 24 percent reported that their boss was self-centred; and 20 percent reported that their boss will do a favour only if guaranteed one in return.
“Having a narcissistic boss creates a toxic environment for virtually everyone who must come in contact with this individual,” Hochwarter said. “The team perspective ceases to exist, and the work environment becomes increasingly stressful. Productivity typically plummets as well.”
“Most organisations simply do not consider the adverse effects of narcissistic bosses on worker productivity and stress,” Hochwarter rued.
“In fact, many companies encourage it since narcissists are often seen as outgoing and confident — traits considered necessary for success in any managerial role,” said Hochwarter, according to a FSUCB statement.
“However, there is a fine line between self-confidence on the one hand and selfishness that negatively affects others on the other. Unfortunately, the needed adjustments simply do not take place in most organisations, for any number of reasons.”
