Charismatic Leadership: How To Influence Others?
There are those who seem to be natural leaders who can influence people with great ease. We see it in all aspects of our daily lives, both at work and in social and political life, as well as among our friends. They are charismatic people who, with simple and simple actions, manage to influence others.
These charismatic leaders often arouse attraction in other people, just like a magnet is attracted to metal.
Characteristics of charismatic leaders
Being a good leader and being a charismatic leader are not the same. Charismatic leaders seem to have a natural ability to take control of a room, a meeting, or a situation. They show hope, optimism, and strength, and they project these qualities onto the people they lead.
Specifically, charismatic leaders are characterized by having the following qualities :
- They have a strong vision that supports the values of their followers.
- They are good at communicating with their audience: They tell relatable stories and grab people’s attention.
- They are confident : They believe in themselves and show no doubt or fear.
- They are optimistic: They visualize their mission and believe they can make it happen.
- Not only do they lead, but they also protect the people they lead.
- They build an emotional bond with their followers.
Skills to influence others
People are not born charismatic. Charism is acquired through knowledge and practice. Charismatic leaders “cause followers to become highly committed to the leader’s mission, make significant personal sacrifices, and perform beyond duty,” says Wharton School business professor Robert House.
These are some key skills that will help you develop charismatic leadership and, therefore, influence others. They will serve you for your work, personal and family life.
Speak with purpose
They say that a wise man speaks because he has something to say, while a fool speaks because he has to say something. To influence others, you definitely have to have something to say, something that really interests others and provokes in them the need to take action.
Make others feel interesting and important
When people feel valued they are more willing to listen and act. When people feel an active part of what is being said they find their place in the world, they are able to share a purpose.
Measure the situation
Pay attention to your audience, whether it’s a one-on-one conversation or a large gathering. Observe people’s body language, their expressions. Spot the most influential person and target them. This will get people more involved.
Is always present
Being present means paying attention to what is happening instead of getting caught up in your thoughts. Don’t let your mind wander from thought to thought.
Act charismatic
Charismatic people behave, smile, and look at those with whom they are speaking in a particular way. Pay attention to your posture, to your expression. Make eye contact with people, smile. Master the handshake.
Show passion and enthusiasm
It is difficult to influence others if your interactions do not have passion, humor or some other element of emotion and human connection. Charisma has a physical component, so pay attention to your body language.
Be authentic
Don’t do what works for others if it doesn’t fit your style. Forcing yourself to adopt a style that is not natural will only undermine your credibility. Being authentic also means getting rid of generic responses.
With charisma you will be more influential, persuasive and inspiring in those areas where you need it. People will be attracted to you, trust you, and want to learn from you. Employees, subordinates, voters, but also children, students or members of an organization or group… Everyone will respond positively to the presence of a charismatic leader.
