Toxic Leader - Basic Traits

Basic Traits

The basic traits of a toxic leader are generally considered to be either/or insular, intemperate, glib, operationally rigid, callous, inept, discriminatory, corrupt or aggressive by scholars such as Barbara Kellerman. They boast that they are supposedly clever, always criticize other staff members and avoid or dislike to be asked awkward questions about their leadership style. These may occur as either:

  • Oppositional behaviour.
  • Plays corporate power politics.
  • An overcompetitive attitude to other employees.
  • Perfectionistic attitudes.
  • Abuse of the disciplinary system (such as to remove a workplace rival).
  • A condescending/glib attitude.
  • They are shallow and lack self-confidence. Toxic leaders are not confident with themselves and become aggressive to cope.
  • Poor self-control and/or restraint.
  • Physical and/or psychological bullying.
  • Procedural inflexibility.
  • Discriminatory attitudes (sexism, etc.).
  • Causes workplace division instead of harmony.
  • Use "divide and rule" tactics on their employees.
  • Arrogant
  • Irritable

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