How to Spot Narcissistic Personality Traits in Interviews.

Interviewing candidates is a critical step in the hiring process, but identifying a possible narcissist can be challenging. Narcissistic individuals can be charming and persuasive, making it essential to look beyond surface-level interactions. Here are some insights and strategies, including expert advice from Dr. Ramani Durvasula, to help you spot potential narcissists during interviews.

Understanding Narcissistic Traits

Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is characterized by a pattern of grandiosity, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. Dr. Ramani, a leading expert on narcissism, notes that "narcissists have a grandiose sense of self-importance, are preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love, and believe they are 'special' and unique" (Durvasula, 2019).

Behavioral Indicators in Interviews

 During an interview, look for these common narcissistic traits:

Excessive Self-Promotion: Narcissists often exaggerate their achievements and talents. They might dominate the conversation with stories of their success and downplay the contributions of others.

Lack of Empathy: They may struggle to show genuine interest in the interviewer or the company's mission. Their responses might lack emotional depth or concern for others.

Entitlement and Arrogance: Narcissistic individuals may display a sense of entitlement, expecting special treatment. They might come across as arrogant or dismissive of others' opinions.

Blaming Others: When discussing past experiences, narcissists often blame others for failures and take full credit for successes.

Manipulative Behavior: They may attempt to manipulate the conversation to suit their needs, often using charm or flattery.

Behavioral Interview Questions to Identify Narcissistic Traits

Incorporate these questions into your interviews to help identify narcissistic tendencies:

1. "Can you describe a time when you had to work as part of a team?"

Listen for indications of cooperation and credit-sharing. Narcissists might downplay the role of others and highlight their own contributions disproportionately.

2. "Tell me about a time you faced a significant challenge at work. How did you handle it?"

Pay attention to whether they blame others for the challenge or if they take responsibility. Narcissists often deflect blame and may lack genuine reflection on their actions.

3. "How do you handle criticism or feedback from others?"

Look for signs of defensiveness or inability to accept constructive criticism. Narcissists typically struggle with accepting feedback and may react negatively.

4. "Describe a situation where you had to put someone else's needs ahead of your own."

This question can reveal their capacity for empathy and selflessness. A narcissist might struggle to provide a convincing example.

5. "What motivates you in your career?"

Narcissists often focus on external validation, such as recognition, power, or prestige, rather than intrinsic motivators like personal growth or teamwork.

Identifying a possible narcissist during an interview requires keen observation and strategic questioning. “If a person leads with charm and charisma and plenty of confidence, sit up straight and pay cautious attention. Make sure that there is empathy, that entitlement is not at play, that the person is genuine, that there is respect and, frankly, that he or she has the goods to back it up. Don’t let the charisma and charm blind you and stop you from looking deeper for the rest of it.” (Ramani, 2019)

By understanding the key traits of narcissistic personalities and employing targeted behavioral questions, you can better assess candidates and make more informed hiring decisions.

Remember, as Dr. Ramani advises, "trust your instincts—if something feels off, it probably is" (Durvasula, 2019).

References:

Durvasula, R. (2019). Don't You Know Who I Am? How to Stay Sane in an Era of Narcissism, Entitlement, and Incivility. Post Hill Press.