General Indicators
In some instances, such as when you’re a recipient, it may be obvious that counterproductive leadership is occurring. In other situations, it may not be, particularly with subordinate leaders who may hide behaviors from their superiors. Look for these potential “warning signs” of counterproductive leadership.
Do individuals display nonverbal cues that indicate they are uncomfortable around the leader?
Facial expressions (e.g., averting eye contact, frowning), tone of voice, and body language (e.g., crossed arms, closed posture) may provide clues about how someone is being perceived.
Impacts: Avoidance and a lack of open discussion or trust; decreases readiness and impedes mission success
Does the leader surround him/herself with “Yes” men or women?
“Yes” men or women support a leader’s ideas not because they always agree, but because they may be too intimidated to disagree or offer constructive criticism.
Impacts: Divisiveness, resentment, and lack of openness to diverse perspectives
When something goes wrong, does the leader blame others?
Leaders who blame others may be more focused on maintaining their image than on how to resolve a problem.
Impacts: Demotivates and causes resentment among subordinates
Do the behaviors stop occurring when the superior is around?
Leaders may “kiss up” to senior ranks while bullying lower ranks.
Impacts: If superiors don’t realize how the leader is treating subordinates, the counterproductive leadership will likely persist, and subordinates will see the superior getting rewarded, which could be viewed as condoning the behavior.