Employee Arrogance

Many who analyze and comment upon management leadership (myself included) praise the humility of a leader as a desirable trait. But in viewing and discussing employee behavior, the trait is less covered. We see frequently the arrogant business owner who looks in a mirror to plan and ignores the opinions of others. If arrogance is harmful to business prospects in management, can it also be harmful if prevalent in employees?

The indicators of the presence of arrogance in employees are subtle. They are often difficult for managers to perceive. One common indicator is the setting of areas of control. An employee may view an activity or an area as solely within the power of that employee and protect that territory or area of control. The employee may criticize management decisions, pointing out errors obvious to those working with the employee. The employee may characterize the employee’s role as doing his skill as long as is convenient and then perhaps going to work elsewhere where that role is valued.

What the arrogant employee does not do is act as if the employee is part of a team with a vested interest in the success of the business. How can the arrogance of an employee be changed?