Managing People with Dark Personality Traits

The video argues that these traits are common and may not change easily, so it can be more practical to learn how to manage interactions than to assume you can avoid such people entirely.

Set clear boundaries

• Make rules explicit. Clear expectations can reduce selfish behavior compared with having no rules.
• Avoid giving people undue power over others. Managers with strong psychopathic traits, for example, may increase stress and divide teams.

Negotiate around incentives

• Look for win-win arrangements, taking into account what motivates the other person.
• Favor rewards over punishment, especially with people high in psychopathic traits, who may be more sensitive to rewards than to penalties.
• Reinforce helpful, honest behavior with meaningful rewards. Status-related recognition, such as a title or bonus, may be especially motivating.

Build a sense of shared identity

• Emphasize common ground and loyalty. People high in narcissism may respond better to negative feedback when they feel connected to the person giving it.

Watch for deception cues

• Be alert to inconsistencies and missing or unverifiable details.
• Look for unusually sparse details or signs of cognitive strain, and follow up when something raises concern.
• Don’t rely on gaze aversion or fidgeting alone as signs of lying.

Choose the right communication format

• When negotiating, consider using text or chat instead of meeting face-to-face. Written communication can reduce the influence of charisma.

Don’t assume firing is the only solution

A substantial minority of people may show elevated levels of these traits, and some may also have useful skills. The video suggests focusing on clear management strategies rather than automatically dismissing everyone with such traits.