When Narcissism Hides Behind the Mission Statement
We often think of narcissism as personal. Intimate. Domestic. But what happens when it walks into the office in a tailored suit, quoting company values using “inclusion” as a marketing phrase?
Let’s go deeper.
Narcissistic leaders are often the ones who speak of morals they’ve never lived, just like the image says.
They quote equity while side-lining you in meetings.
They host wellness events while gaslighting employees behind closed doors.
They claim to value diversity, unless that diversity challenges their control, their comfort or their authority.
In the workplace, narcissistic hypocrisy sounds like
“We value everyone’s voice” (But only some are heard.)“ Unconscious bias training is mandatory.” (But microaggressions from senior leaders go unaddressed.)“
We promote from within” (But high-performing Black, Brown and neurodiverse women stay stuck, always 'next in line.')
The damage this causes isn’t just emotional, it’s career sabotage.
Talented professionals lose confidence.
Promotions are delayed or denied.Innovation dies in the shadow of fear-based leadership.
So what should HR and leadership do if they’re serious about building inclusive cultures?
Go beyond buzzwords, audit behaviour not just policy.
Address microaggressions as leadership failures, not personality quirks.
Reward leaders who elevate others, not those who protect their own image.
Create safe escalation pathways so people don’t have to choose between their dignity and their job.
A truly inclusive culture doesn't just celebrate difference, it holds power accountable.
You can’t claim equity while protecting those who abuse it.
So to every woman who’s ever wondered, “Am I overreacting?” No, you’re reacting to something very real and very systemic.
Let’s keep exposing it. Let’s lead differently.
If this post gave language to something you’ve lived, don’t let it stop here. Add your voice, your comment could validate someone else’s unspoken experience.
Like if you’re ready for workplaces that honour truth over image. And share this with a colleague or a leader who needs to see beyond the buzzwords because the only way we change culture is by calling it out and calling others in.
