The first red flag that you're working with a narcissist will often look like a green one. Your colleague – or boss – is charming, friendly, confident and persuasive. It seems like you've landed your dream job. Then it starts to feel more like a nightmare. Praise becomes unpredictable, as do their moods. They favour some people and alienate others, creating division and competition. Perhaps they're loud, aggressive bullies; maybe they pull people into side conversations to gossip.