In today’s world where the culture of narcissism appears to be predominant, strategies for effectively interacting with narcissistic people have become vital.
This calls for some nuanced approaches to dealing with such personalities whether in corporate or educational settings.
After a decade of navigating these waters, here are several tried-and-tested strategies to effectively handle narcissists in professional settings.
Utilizing Reputation as a Motivating Tool
It is important to remember that the narcissist craves for a good character so as to use it in influencing others. In this way, they can effectively steer the narcissists’ actions into the right direction.
Posing questions or making suggestions about their image will often elicit positive reactions and encourage constructive dialogue.
When employed, it fosters cooperation by tying the behavior of such leaders to how they would like other professionals to perceive them.
Subtle Positive Reinforcement
When the narcissist’s ego is not over boosted, this can be achieved by using subtle positive reinforcement methods inspired by B.F. Skinner’s experiments.
To reduce narcissistic and attention seeking behaviors, strategies like this one ensures that they are given credit where it is due as well as an integration of other dynamics in a group.
It also nurtures a more receptive attitude to feedback while at the same time promoting an open disposition.
Using the ‘Gray Rock’ Method
At times, it is best to become emotionally inert; this is what is referred to as employing the ‘Gray Rock’ method.
Individuals become boring or non-responsive thus minimizing any chances of manipulation by the narcissist.
Neutral and disengaged responses during gossiping or drama filled conversations effectively take one out of their toxic emotional lair.
Master Reflective Listening
The possession of reflective listening skills enables one to acknowledge and confirm the feelings expressed by a narcissist without condoning them or becoming part of them.
Instead of a frontal clash, this method entails sympathetically recognizing the emotions of a narcissist while keeping oneself in balance.
By doing so, it will create room for constructive dialogue, thus diffusing any possibly fiery situation.
Facts over Opinions
Whenever one comes across instances where narcissists try to manipulate narratives in order to claim dominance, sticking to verifiable and concrete facts becomes very important.
With calmness as well as methodical presentation of factual details in response to their claims, one can effectively counter their assertions.
This usually forces the narcissist to reconsider or even withdraw his statements in order not to damage his reputation.
Protecting Personal Information
By limiting the sharing of personal information, individuals are able to shield themselves from possible manipulations by narcissists.
Selective disclosure helps maintain professional boundaries, safeguarding personal sanctity and preventing abuse of private confidences.
Knowing When to Walk Away
There are instances where it is wise to recognize that interactions have become less productive and then decide to disengage.
In order to protect one’s sanity and the attainment of professional goals, taking note that narcissists enjoy being focused on and given responses may necessitate strategic disengagement from fruitless dialogues or associations.
Strategies for Effectively Interacting with Narcissists
In a nutshell, handling narcissists in professional environments requires empathy blended with communication strategies, coupled up with boundary setting.
Leveraging their desire for a positive reputation, employing subtle reinforcement, mastering reflective listening, focusing on facts while safeguarding personal information help navigate interactions with narcissistic individuals.
What’s more, knowing when to disengage is a powerful strategy of preserving one’s wellbeing while keeping a productive work environment.
These methods are not exhaustive, but they summarize a few ways in which people can cope up with the behaviors of individuals who suffer from this disorder yet still be able to maintain their professionalism.