It’s a lot easier to identify a narcissist in your personal life than one you work with.
When we don’t witness people’s behaviour off the clock, it’s a bit harder to figure out if they’re just a bit odd or if they’re truly self-absorbed, manipulative, and potentially dangerous. Nevertheless, it’s important to spot the warning signs of a narcissistic colleague — and if you notice them, steer well clear!
1. They constantly seek attention and praise.
Narcissistic colleagues have an endless craving for admiration and will go to great lengths to get it. They’ll often hijack conversations to talk about their own achievements, no matter how small, and expect constant validation from everyone around them. Needless to say, their constant need for attention can be draining for everyone around them, especially because they turn even simple work discussions into a performance for praise.
2. They take credit for other people’s work.
A narcissistic coworker is quick to claim the spotlight, even when they don’t deserve it. They’ll often swoop in to take credit for team efforts or ideas that aren’t theirs, making it look like they’ve done all the heavy lifting. This kind of behaviour erodes trust within the team and sows resentment, as it undermines other people’s hard work. It’s really not on!
3. They don’t take criticism very well.
Criticism, no matter how constructive, is like a personal attack to a narcissist. Instead of taking feedback on board, they’ll become defensive, lash out, or try to shift the blame elsewhere. Their inability to handle any sort of feedback that’s not 100% positive makes it hard for them to grow, both professionally and personally, which can cause friction within the team.
4. They lack empathy for their colleagues.
Narcissists struggle to put themselves in other people’s shoes, often showing little regard for their coworkers’ feelings or challenges. Whether it’s dismissing concerns or acting indifferent to other people’s problems, their lack of empathy creates a cold, unsupportive work environment. Over time, this can lead to a toxic atmosphere where people feel undervalued and ignored.
5. They have no qualms about their manipulative behaviour.
Manipulation is a hallmark of narcissists. In the workplace, they might use tactics like guilt-tripping, gaslighting, or even flattery to get their way. They’re also known for pitting colleagues against one another, creating unnecessary drama to maintain control. It not only disrupts team cohesion but can also make the workplace a breeding ground for distrust.
6. They think they’re a whole lot more important than they are.
They have an exaggerated sense of their own value to the organisation. For instance, they probably believe they deserve special treatment or that rules don’t apply to them. Their overblown self-image can lead to unrealistic demands and constant drama, especially when other people don’t cater to their inflated sense of entitlement.
7. They struggle with teamwork.
Collaboration is not a narcissist’s strong suit. They tend to prioritise their own goals over the team’s and resist compromise, and they may try to dominate group projects or dismiss ideas that aren’t theirs. Their total unwillingness to work together can severely disrupt team productivity and morale, leaving other people feeling sidelined.
8. They gossip and spread rumours with abandon.
Office gossip is one of a narcissist’s favourite tools for undermining other people. They’ll spread rumours and negative information to elevate their own status or diminish someone else’s. This kind of behaviour not only divides coworkers but also creates a toxic, backstabbing work environment that can be hard to navigate.
9. They have a major sense of entitlement.
Narcissistic coworkers often believe they deserve more—more promotions, more recognition, more perks—even if they haven’t earned it. They expect to be treated differently from everyone else, regardless of their contributions. Unfortunately, their sense of entitlement can lead to frustration and resentment among their peers, especially when they demand rewards they haven’t worked for.
10. They just don’t respect anyone’s boundaries.
Narcissists tend to overstep professional and personal boundaries without a second thought. They may intrude on your work time, invade your personal space, or pry into your private life without any regard for your comfort. Their utter lack of respect for boundaries can make colleagues feel disrespected and uncomfortable in their own workspace.
11. Their behaviour is totally inconsistent.
One minute a narcissist is charming and engaging, and the next they’re hostile or dismissive. Such erratic behaviour can leave coworkers walking on eggshells, unsure of how the narcissist will act from one moment to the next. The unpredictability creates a confusing and stressful work environment where people are always on edge.
12. They belittle or demean people without a second thought.
To maintain their own sense of superiority, narcissists will often put other people down. They may use sarcasm, criticism, or even “jokes” to undermine and belittle their coworkers. Their demeaning behaviour isn’t just hurtful—it’s also a way to keep other people feeling small and insecure, which allows the narcissist to stay in control.
13. They have a strong need for control.
Narcissistic people are often obsessed with controlling their surroundings and the people in them. Whether it’s micromanaging a project or insisting that things be done their way, they struggle to let go of control. Their rigid need for dominance stifles creativity and can create a stifling, oppressive work environment where other people feel powerless.
14. They lack accountability.
When something goes wrong, a narcissist is quick to point fingers at everyone else. They’ll shift blame, make excuses, and never take responsibility for their own mistakes. What’s so annoying is that their lack of accountability not only undermines team morale but also leads to a toxic culture where mistakes are hidden instead of addressed and resolved.
15. They exaggerate their achievements.
Narcissists love to embellish their accomplishments, making themselves seem more successful or skilled than they really are. Whether they’re bragging about past projects or future potential, they often paint an inflated picture of their abilities. Over time, this habit of exaggeration destroys trust, as colleagues start to see through the façade.
16. They’re not interested in anyone else’s success.
Narcissistic coworkers rarely celebrate other people’s achievements. Instead of being happy for a colleague’s promotion or success, they’ll try to downplay it or shift the attention back to themselves. Their lack of support creates a competitive and unsupportive environment, where coworkers feel pitted against each other instead of working together.
17. Their sense of superiority is through the roof.
Source: Unsplash Narcissists often act like they’re better than everyone else in the office. They may talk down to people (even superiors!), dismiss ideas they didn’t come up with, or refuse to work with people they deem “beneath” them. Their disgusting attitude of superiority makes it nearly impossible to build a healthy, respectful work environment, as it undermines mutual trust and cooperation.
