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10 Tips Working with Managers and Coworkers with Superiority Complex

Coach Danyell

Updated: Apr 30, 2022




We have all been there before…working with managers or senior coworkers with an authority complex. How do you deal with people that require you to bow to their every whim and slobber every time they grace you with their presence? Let’s have a conversation….



1. Be confident- Most of the time when a person chooses to unfurl their feathers it is due to feeling intimidated or inadequate compared to others. Yes, this person is intimidated by you and to counteract that feeling the result is to make you feel less than. Don’t let them win! Own your confidence and hold your chin up. You are worthy and more powerful than you can fathom.


2. Be respectful- Above all, always take the high road and meet them with respect. Never allow someone to drag you to the depths with their wretchedness. Keep your vibration high and maintain your joy! Misery loves company, but that doesn’t mean you have to join the party.


3. Be a hard worker- Hard work, dedication, and consistency, will always pay off in the long run. You can never win by cheating, being disgraceful, or putting others down. That behavior will only lead to additional bad behavior and will be a never-ending cycle of negativity. Rise above it!




4. Be open- If at any time their superiority antics cross the line, always feel comfortable enough to reach out to your human resources department and officially file a verbal report. If the deviant is your direct supervisor, then go to their supervisor and air your grievances. Too common in the workplace, we are conditioned to take any abuse to avoid losing job security, however, always remember that, unless you are self-employed, you work for a business. This business is composed of different workers at different stages in their career and the goal is to make a profit. The moment you leave this business, a counterpart or new worker will take your place. Truth!


5. Be wise-When in these situations, make smart decisions and think ahead. Depending on the type of person, they may love to draw crowds to peacock or speak to you alone to further demoralize you. Make the right decision on when to physically be around this person. If verbal abuse is taking place, then be bold and record the interaction for further evidence. You are a human being that must protect your well-being.





6. Be a good listener-Be aware of your surroundings and practice active listening to determine what the person is really saying. Should the conversations be more braggadocios, then you know this person is seeking attention. However, if the exchange takes a turn towards humiliation, then there is a reason for concern. You should consider involving human resources or a higher up manager to engage further. At any level you may have counterparts or superiors that taken on a “God Complex.” We are all equals, regardless of job titles!


7. Be courageous- At any point, never feel fear or hesitant to defend yourself verbally. Under no circumstances should you feel an obligation to accept any put downs. We’re all here to lift each other up, but not at the sake of losing our own joy.


8. Be mindful- Mentally know this is a job that you’re meant to experience, so be sure to experience the company to the fullest. Be aware of additional openings within the company, that may allow you to put some distance between toxic people. Never feel as though you are stuck, when the universe will offer you many opportunities, should you ask.





9. Be brave- Of course you can show bravery by engaging with the enemy, but at times know when to disengage and dismiss yourself from the situation. Managers or coworkers with a superiority complex are seeking engagement, but once you expel yourself from the interaction, then there isn’t anything left for that individual. Sometimes the biggest act of bravery is walking away.


10. Be yourself- Never feel pressured to do anything that seems disingenuous. Always remain true to yourself and keep your authenticity.




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