On the cnbc website there is a good article titled "A psychology expert shares the 7 toxic signs of ‘highly insecure’ people—and how to deal with them" (search falk 7 signs). Here are their most common toxic behaviors, according to Harvard career expert Amy Gallo:
- They are overly concerned about what others think of them.
- They never express a firm opinion.
- They suffer from a chronic inability to make decisions, even when the choices have little consequence.
- They frequently try to change the direction of projects and meetings.
- They put other people down to make themselves look more important.
- They constantly talk about how busy they are (when they’re actually not) to show that they are in demand.
- They are paranoid meddlers who make you question your every move.
Each one brings back some memories of a manager or co-worker. The article goes on to tell you how to handle these insecure types.