The Debate About Charismatic Leaders
Charismatic leaders are considered to have certain traits that allow them to lead organizations to success better than their counterparts who lack charisma. There is considerable debate among those who follow the careers of high-profile leaders and the importance of having a charismatic leader at the helm of an organization. Some believe charismatic leaders are overrated while others maintain that these leaders have the power to bring about transformational change because they can inspire those around them.
Visionary
Many consider charismatic leaders to be visionaries. This is because these charismatic individuals can serve up a vision of the future that is exciting and appealing. Charismatic leaders are often capable of creating a vision for the future that feels more like ideal concepts for the future rather than forecasts.
Compelling Communications Skills
Charismatic leaders are those who possess compelling communication skills. To inspire action and change, charismatic leaders use words that inspire and excite their audiences into action. These individuals understand the power of words and how to deliver them to their target audiences.
Inspire Trust
Charismatic leaders inspire trust in the people who work with and for them. Many people who report up to charismatic leaders believe strongly that their leader has their best interest at heart. When this synergy is created charismatic leaders can attract and retain workers who will stay loyal, long term employees who ultimately help charismatic leaders deliver on their visions for the future.
Group Members Feel Capable & Appreciated
Charismatic leaders make the members of their group feel capable and appreciated. They do this by enabling group members to achieve success by working on easy projects then praising them for their accomplishments. As the group members become more skilled and experienced, the charismatic leader assigns more complex tasks and duties and repeats the praising and encouragement.
Emotional Expression & Warmth
A key trait of a charismatic leader is their ability to express themselves emotionally and with warmth. For some, there’s nothing more appealing that reporting up to a charismatic leader who can both vulnerable and strong at the same time.
Elaine Allan, BA, MBA
Technology & Business Blogger
Vancouver, Canada