Why does it matter? Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, who chairs Emory University's Center for Leadership and Career Studies, says that when a CEO is perceived to have charisma, his or her business performs better. Direct reports feel inspired. Excitement cascades through the o rganization. Even so, says Sonnenfeld, "most leadership courses focus on `followership,' compliance and consensus management instead of leadership. The result is a sort of guerrilla war against charisma."
Acquiring charisma isn't easy, and a lot of leaders shouldn't even bother attempting to gain this trait. Who hasn't cringed at the sight of an awkward guy trying to be a live wire? Or remembered Richard Nixon schmoozing with Elvis? Still, there are aspects of charisma that are very useful and easily attainable. Says Jay Conger, a professor at the University of Southern California who has written books on the subject: "Understanding the traits of charismatic people can help anyone become a better leader."
Simplify and Exaggerate.
Charismatic people have a remarkable ability to distill complex ideas into simple messages. What's their secret? They communicate by using symbols, analogies, metaphors and stories.
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