The testing procedure „risk profile for managers“ ( KI.Risk ) measures the three personality traits narcissism, Machiavellianism and psychopathy (the so called „dark triad“) in the work context. Researchers have postulated that these “dark“ personality traits are encountered more frequently in leadership positions. They benefit the promotion to powerful positions but not the effectiveness as a manager. The purpose of KI.Risk is the precocious identification of such personality tendencies in order to prevent a management failure.
Kai Externbrink evaluated the criterion validity of KI.Risk in cooperation with the Cologne Institute and Prof. Dr. Christian Dries. Therefore they took a look at the relation of the questionnaire with so called “micro political tactics”. Micro-political tactics are defined as all methods which are used to influence others in their own interests. The results of the study confirm that all personality structures of the dark triad which were classified as risky correlate with micro-political tactics (manipulating, putting pressure on someone, calling in superior authorities). Based on this research, destructive behavior of potential managers can be identified early by the usage of KI.Risk.
