Developing Your Charisma for Success

The study of charisma and its role in leadership began Max Weber. This pioneering sociologist, who lived from 1864 until 1920, defined charismatic leadership as gifted, inspired motivation from a leader who pursues a vision which attracts followers to identify with and emulate him. Charismatic leaders have strong core values that drive their behavior. They are also articulate, with the ability to speak dynamically, forcefully, and so persuasively that other people to buy into the vision, and to want to achieve it. They are generally unconventional trailblazers; self-confident, and with a sufficient amount of competence that people feel comfortable following their lead. This makes charisma especially important in a crisis situation because people are more likely to look toward a person who appears capable of bringing them through.

The Minute You Walked in the Room...Professor of psychology Howard Friedman (University of California-Riverside) is a specialist in non-verbal communication. He defines charisma as "a certain presence."  When charismatic people enter a room, their mere presence draws attention and their energy may radiate to enliven the entire gathering. At the core of this charisma, says Friedman, is "a basic self-confidence" and the ability to project this to others.