A good trick for exposing a narcissistic boss is to master this question: "Is there a reason you're asking me that question?" A narcissistic boss is very good at asking rhetorical, condescending questions.
How does a narcissist boss react when they can t control you?
A narcissist is likely to be enraged when they begin to lose control. They may lash out at you, go on a smear campaign, or purposefully ignore you. They may also lovebomb you to reel you back in. Their main goal is to get your attention, provoke a response, and regain power.
What is the silent treatment of a narcissistic boss?
The silent treatment is a manipulation tactic where a toxic narcissist will stop talking to you for hours, weeks or even months in order to punish you. It can cause serious emotional and psychological damage if you don't realise what is happening.
Tease, ridicule, and shame them mercilessly for not trying to figure out right from wrong, instead, pretending to have it all figured out. Stay calm, even friendly, to the person cowering inside their absolute narcissistic fake infallibility cloak. Stay light, even humorous. It's nothing personal.
Narcissistic rage is common for those with NPD as they grow increasingly angry with any display of vulnerability. This anger can be triggered when they are “called out,” their image has been damaged, or their shortcomings or wrongdoings are highlighted.
Some bosses can lose their temper on occasion. But narcissistic bosses use anger and aggression as a “manipulation tool” to control employees at work, Morin says. Those bosses might pound their fist on a desk, raise their voice or humiliate employees who speak out against them.
Although narcissists act superior to others and posture as beyond reproach, underneath their grandiose exteriors lurk their deepest fears: That they are flawed, illegitimate, and ordinary.
They are often driven from agitation into an aggressive rage with a simple trigger. Any small play against their ego, perfectionism, or a slight action against their image of self-worth, may be enough to trigger narcissistic rage.
Well, silence can be a powerful tool when dealing with a narcissist. If they are used to dominating the conversation, silence can make them uncomfortable. You can force them to confront their behavior and make them fear you by remaining silent.
What happens when you stay silent with a narcissist?
To Maintain Control
Because of this, a narcissist will revert to any manipulation tactics they think will give them the most control over people and their situation. If you react most to the silent treatment, they will continue to use this tactic to get the reaction they want from you.
If you ignore a narcissist and deny them their source, they may become enraged and try even harder for your attention – especially in ways that can be toxic or abusive. Ignoring a narcissist will enrage them because of their fragile egos. They'll feel humiliated and lash out against you to protect themselves.
A powerful way to take control from a narcissist is to stop trying to please them. Focus on your own needs, thoughts, and feelings. Use clear, assertive language that emphasizes your own perspective. By prioritizing your stand, you show your independence and make it harder for them to manipulate you.
