Narcissistic Leaders–Promise or Peril? The Patterns of Narcissistic Leaders’ Behaviors and Their Relation to Team Performance

Abstract

Leader narcissism has attracted substantial attention in leadership research and organizational practice. Yet, the exact relationship between leader narcissism and performance remains unclear. In this paper, we set out to illuminate the narcissism-leadership-performance puzzle. We build on research that points to a curvilinear relationship between leader narcissism and performance and open the black box behind this curvilinear relationship. Thereby, we take into consideration the context, in which narcissistic leaders act, and explore their leadership behaviors in a compelling context: entrepreneurial teams. In a quantitative study, we found that a moderate level of leader narcissism was associated with the best team performance as assessed by the quality of a business plan. In a qualitative follow-up interview study, we explored the patterns of leadership behaviors shown by narcissists to better understand how different behaviors combine into effective versus destructive leadership, shaping team performance eventually. Finally, in an experimental online study using the scenario technique, we investigated the relevance of these leadership patterns associated with different levels of narcissism across contexts. The results of our multi-method and multi-source studies suggest that the most promising avenue to understand the narcissism-leadership-performance puzzle is that it depends on the levels of narcissism and more specifically that it depends on the patterns of behaviors narcissistic leaders show—the context seems to play a less important role.

Unveiling the Shadow: Theorizing the Impact of Narcissistic Leadership on Sales Teams

“…This type of leadership can have profound negative impacts on both individuals and organizations (Fatfouta, 2019). Research on narcissistic leadership has been growing in recent years as scholars seek to understand its implications and consequences (Schmid et al, 2021). One key issue in studying narcissistic leadership is the potential for negative outcomes.…”

“…However, over time, the negative consequences of narcissistic leadership become apparent (Rosenthal and Pittinsky, 2006). Research has shown that narcissistic leaders are more likely to engage in unethical behavior, such as deception, manipulation, and exploitation of others for their own personal gain (Schmid et al, 2021). Yasir and Mohamad (2016) study recommends that senior management embrace and demonstrate ethical leadership, highlighting that ethical leadership is distinct in its focus on the moral and ethical dimensions of leadership behavior.…”

“…This drive can motivate them to take risks and pursue ambitious goals, leading to breakthrough innovations that can benefit the organization and its stakeholders (Campbell and Campbell, 2009). Another positive aspect of narcissistic leadership is the ability to inspire and motivate followers (Schmid et al, 2021). Narcissistic leaders often possess high levels of self-confidence and charisma, which can attract and energize followers (Lin and Guo, 2022).…”

“…Additionally, narcissistic leaders can be highly driven and persistent in pursuing their goals (Harrison and Clough, 2006). This determination and perseverance can inspire their followers to work harder and strive for excellence (Schmid et al, 2021). One example of a narcissistic leader who has been able to achieve positive outcomes is Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder and first president of modern Turkey (Fatfouta, 2019).…”

Narcissistic Leadership and Project Success in IT Industry: Moderating the role of Risk Management Technology

“…Narcissism can be defined as a psychological state or a personality disorder that strives for a sense of self-worth, self-obsession, different feelings of entitlement, need for admiration, and other personality traits (Al-Abrrow et al, 2018;Yakeley, 2018). Narcissistic leaders always try to dominate their subordinates (Schmid et al, 2021). The concept of narcissism is also considered a pattern that revolves around oneself and self-importance because this pattern is also linked with abnormality (Germain, 2018b).…”