Define Clear Roles and Boundaries

People with narcissistic tendencies often try to dominate decisions or shift responsibility.

What to do:

• Assign specific responsibilities for each person
• Document who handles what
• Keep discussions focused on the task, not personalities

Example:

Your role: Data analysis and report writing

Their role: Presentation slides and client communication

Ensure clear roles to reduce arguments and power struggles.

Keep Communication Task-Focused

Avoid emotional or personal debates.

Best approach

• Use neutral, factual language
• Reference the project goals frequently
• Redirect conversations back to the task

Example response

“Let's focus on finishing the design section so we stay on schedule.”

Their role: Presentation slides and client communication

Ensure clear roles to reduce arguments and power struggles.

This prevents distractions and keeps the work environment calm.

Use Written Agreements

Written plans prevent later disputes.

Helpful tools

• Shared task boards
• Project outlines
• Checklists

Example agreement

Task: Complete Mockup
Deadline: Friday 2 PM
Owner: Tony

If disagreements arise, you can point to the agreed plan.

Avoid Ego Battles

Trying to “win” arguments will more than likely escalates conflict.

Instead

• Let them feel recognized for ideas
• Then steer the discussion toward practical implementation

Example deescalation

“That's an interesting idea. How can we apply it to finish this section today?”

This satisfies their need for validation while maintaining progress.

Break Work into Small Deliverables

Short milestones reduce opportunities for conflict.

Example workflow
Step 1 Outline
Step 2 Draft
Step 3 Review
Step 4 Final submission

Frequent checkpoints keep both people accountable.

Control the Environment

Since no outer noise is allowed, structure the workspace to support focus.

Suggestion:

• Quiet workspace or reserved room
• Headphones if necessary
• Scheduled “focus blocks” where no discussion occurs

Example schedule
9 - 10:30 Silent work block
10:30 - 10:45 Discussion 10:45 - 12 Silent work block

This limits unnecessary interaction.

Keep Documentation

If the person tries to shift blame or rewrite history, documentation protects the project.

Keep records of

• Decisions
• Deadlines
• Completed tasks

This keeps the collaboration objective rather than personal.