Do narcissists have a role in bettering organisations? | Randall Peterson | TEDxLondonBusinessSchool

Summary

In this insightful talk, the speaker explores the complex nature of narcissism, examining its prevalence in leadership roles and society. They discuss the dual aspects of narcissism, highlighting both its negative traits—such as lack of empathy and arrogance—and its potential benefits, including confidence and vision. By distinguishing between agentic and communal narcissists, the speaker offers strategies for managing these personalities within teams. Ultimately, they suggest that while narcissists can drive change, understanding and addressing the dynamics they create is essential for fostering healthy organizational environments.

Takeaways

• 😀 The rise of narcissism in society is evident, with major media outlets highlighting its prevalence.
• 🧐 Narcissism can lead to overconfidence, where individuals see themselves as above average in various skills.
• 💼 Narcissists often possess charm and confidence, making them appealing candidates for leadership roles.
• ⚖️ The American Psychiatric Association defines narcissists as having a grandiose view of themselves, often disconnected from reality.
• 🤔 There are two main types of narcissism: agentic (dominant and authoritative) and communal (helper-oriented).
• 🚫 Agentic narcissists resist negative feedback and are unlikely to seek help due to their inflated self-view.
• 🤝 Communal narcissists believe they are indispensable to their teams and may struggle with sharing credit.
• 🔄 To manage agentic narcissists, it's essential to place them in roles that allow them to drive change, especially in crisis situations.
• 🌱 Communal narcissists benefit from fostering connections within their teams, enhancing overall group dynamics.
• 📈 While narcissism has its drawbacks, it can contribute to organizational success if managed correctly.

Q & A

What prompted the discussion about narcissism in the transcript?

The discussion was prompted by a column in the Guardian in March 2016 that highlighted a perceived epidemic of narcissism in society.

How do most people perceive their abilities compared to others?

The majority of people, over 90%, tend to believe they are above average in skills such as driving, solving problems, and working in teams, indicating a widespread overconfidence.

What are the two types of narcissism discussed in the transcript?

The two types of narcissism discussed are agentic narcissism, characterized by a desire for control and dominance, and communal narcissism, which focuses on being the best helper and supporting others.

What are the negative traits commonly associated with narcissists?

Narcissists typically display traits such as a lack of empathy, poor response to criticism, self-centeredness, and a strong focus on their own status and appearance.

What positive aspects of narcissism were mentioned in the transcript?

Narcissism can bring vision, ambition, and charisma, making narcissists appealing leaders, especially in challenging times when clear direction is needed.

How can agentic narcissists be effectively managed in a team?

To manage agentic narcissists, it's important to find the right role for them that allows for disruptive change, as they are unlikely to change their behavior despite negative feedback.

What role do communal narcissists play in a team?

Communal narcissists are best utilized in supportive roles where they can help build relationships and contribute positively to the group, while their need for recognition should be managed carefully.

What did the speaker say about the historical perception of certain business leaders?

The speaker noted that despite being seen as controversial, leaders like Jack Welch are often remembered for their positive contributions, such as driving performance, even if they employed harsh methods.

What is a key takeaway regarding narcissism in organizations?

Narcissists can play a beneficial role in organizations, but it is crucial to understand their behavior and motivations while fostering an environment that supports the entire team.

Why might feedback not effectively change a narcissist's behavior?

Feedback is often ineffective for narcissists because they are overly confident in their abilities and may perceive criticism as unwarranted, leading them to deflect blame onto others.