An Empirical Research on the Relationship between Dark Personality Traits (Dark Triad) and Impression Management of Employees at Small and Medium Companies in Riyadh - King Saudi Arabia

Raed Kamhia | Dr. Murat Unanoglu

Abstract: The studied the literature review of personality traits (Dark triad) that includes Machiavellianism, narcissism, and psychopathy and comprehensive analysis evaluates their relationship with impression management that includes ingratiation, supplication, exemplification, and self-promotion. Relationship between dark triad and impression management was extracted by online survey in small and medium-sized companies in Riyadh ? Saudi Arabia. We found that personality traits have strong relationship with impression management of employees. A quantitative research approach was implemented for collection of data. The target population was set to total of 271 individuals working in these small and medium sized companies. The respondents were provided the questionnaire containing a set of statements and 100% response rate was obtained. Data analysis was performed by using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) 25.0. The key variables of dark triad effecting impression management were investigated, and meaningful findings were obtained. This research clearly finds that why these personality traits impact operational performance of employees and that of company as well. This research concludes with future directions and recommendation to further study the subject for better advancement in the field.

Keywords: Machiavellianism, Narcissism, Psychopathy, Ingratiation, Supplication, Exemplification, Self-promotion

Edition: Volume 10 Issue 6, June 2021,

Pages: 422 - 431