The dark side of the moon: Negative leadership behaviors to avoid

Just as there are many positive leadership qualities that make leaders great, there are many negative behaviors that drag a leader down. Leaders need to know these patterns and avoid them for the good of their followers and themselves

- YOGI SRIRAM

We have all seen behavior that has illustrated to us the ugly side of leadership. Such negative workplace behaviors make followers feel small, disempowered, insecure, and weak. The more such negative behaviors are practiced, the more does the work environment becomes toxic for the followers.

From observing these bad leadership behaviors, we can reflect on patterns of our own leadership behaviors and try to avoid such behaviors that may have become embedded in our persona. Here are some such behaviors and traits to be wary of.

Blowing one’s own trumpet

Showing off is a trait that does not go down well. Some leaders seek public platforms and other stimuli to massage their ego. They need to be seen on center stage all the time. But the only time a trumpet sounds good is when it is played in a military band, or in the famous “beating of the retreat” ceremony, a day after the Indian Republic Day celebrations.

Abuse of power

Flouting rules with impunity and the misuse of power and authority is unforgivable behavior by those who are in a position to wield such power. It sets a bad precedent for followers, peers, and other colleagues. It dilutes discipline and spreads like a contagion. Leadership comes with responsibility: the responsibility to preserve the prestige of the position, the responsibility to ensure that privileges are not misused, and drawing the line between what one can do and what one cannot do. The adage, practice before you preach, is apt here.

Hubris