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In recent years there has been growing interest in the role that narcissism plays in the workplace. Most studies focus on the negative interpersonal effects while few studies have explored the effect that narcissism has on self, especially in regards to career success. This literature review aims to contribute to the current academic conversation about whether an individual can benefit their career by exhibiting higher levels of narcissism. Fourteen original studies were analyzed and their findings were both summarized and categorized based on subjective and objective career success and the nature of their relationship to narcissism. Subjective career success was observed through overall career satisfaction, job satisfaction, leadership emergence, and work engagement. Objective career success was observed through salary, professional position, and promotion. Findings imply that there are potential benefits to be gained from higher levels of narcissism. This paper brings to light the need for future studies on the topic of narcissism and career success and the four propositions coined illuminates new roads for investigation.

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