"Overstating Competence 甲" The More Narcissistic, The Faster the Promotion Speed

Promotion to CEO 29% Faster... Due to Skillful Overstatement of Competence

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[Asia Economy Senior Reporter Jinsoo Lee] A study has found that individuals with higher levels of narcissism tend to be promoted to the position of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) faster than others within a company.

Paola Robelli, Assistant Professor at the Department of Economics and Business Management at the Free University of Bozen-Bolzano in Italy, and Camilla Curnis, a doctoral candidate at Politecnico di Milano, surveyed 241 local CEOs to assess their levels of narcissism and compared these with their career progressions.

The results revealed that those with more pronounced narcissistic traits were promoted more quickly. This suggests that narcissism, a critical personality flaw, actually benefits these individuals. However, the two researchers did not determine the exact reasons behind this phenomenon.

In psychology, narcissism refers to an excessive belief in one’s own superiority based on specific attributes such as appearance or abilities, encompassing self-love, egocentric personality traits, or behaviors. Therefore, narcissists tend to be boastful, prideful, self-centered, and lack empathy for others.

According to the researchers, narcissism has long been recognized as a characteristic common among leaders like CEOs. In a press conference with the BBC on the 1st (local time), Assistant Professor Robelli stated, "The findings are somewhat concerning," explaining that "narcissists are skilled at exaggerating their capabilities driven by a strong desire to be promoted."

CEOs with relatively higher levels of narcissism showed no significant difference in qualifications compared to their diligent and quiet colleagues, yet their promotion speed was 29% faster. Overall, women exhibited lower levels of narcissism than men.

The researchers assured that companies could benefit from considering these findings during the nomination process for new CEOs. Narcissism is associated with negative behaviors such as boasting and exploitation, which ultimately harm organizations. They also warned companies to "be cautious not to appoint narcissists as CEOs."

When narcissists accelerate internal promotion speeds, companies tend to appoint younger CEOs over seasoned veterans, which can ultimately pose risks to the company.

This study was published in volume 32, issue 3 of the bimonthly social science journal Leadership Quarterly.

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