Leadership Training for Aspiring Charismatic Leaders

Leadership training has and always will be a significant part of organizational development.  Unfortunately, organizations are not becoming more effective with the onslaught of new leadership models, because many, if not most, fail to consider the model that best fits the personality of the manager.  There may be consensus among researchers about what components should go into a leadership program, but very little feedback on dissecting the manager’s personality and the leadership model best suited for that personality. Amisano (n.d.) asserted that an effective leadership program should have these components in the curriculum:

·         Effective Communication—Learning the essential parts of effective communicating, includes: active listening, paraphrasing, and motivation.

·         Influencing People—Enlisting positive reinforcement and persuasive techniques that inspire employees toward contributing to the mission of the organization.

·         Management—Outlining and implementing how each person fits into the structure of the organization.

·         Build Trust—Being reliable by leading with openness and competence.

·         Delegate—Sharing tasks and responsibilities that affect the long term benefits of the organization.

Although Amisano outlined the essentials for a general leadership development training program, charismatic personalities may require extensive self-study supported by the disciplines within the Humanities.  The psychodynamics of historical figures from Napoleon Bonaparte to Bill Clinton suggest that charismatic leaders have a preternatural curiosity about human nature and leadership training for aspiring charismatic leaders should focus on subjects within Liberal Arts (Literature, philosophy, history, social sciences, etc…).  Charismatic leaders are shaped and formed by their heroic deeds and need to connect with historical figures that embody their aspirations.  Specialized training for aspiring charismatic leaders should entail the following components.

---Charismatic leaders are case study driven.  The missionary zeal that charismatic leaders possess necessitates training that point to epic heroes and triumphs in history.  Reportedly, Alexander the Great was influenced by the hero in Homer’s “Iliad.” Julius Caesar and Napoleon Bonaparte were believed to have been influenced by Alexander the Great.  Training for aspiring charismatic leaders should tap into their vivid imaginations and great ambitions.  Charismatic leaders do not merely want to excel within an organization; they want to transform the industry.  

---Charismatic leaders have advanced oratorical skills. Amisano spoke about the need for effective communication skills that involved active listening, paraphrasing and motivation.  However, charismatic leaders use advanced oratorical skills, not only to arouse emotions within audiences, but to transform initiatives through direct action by employees. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. might have listened to his Civil Rights cohorts behind closed doors, but his tool for transformation came from his oratorical skills at the podium. Charismatic leaders are well versed at creating imagery that inspires and encourages audiences to achieve a mission.  Leadership training for aspiring charismatic leaders should focus on persuasive speaking.  The ability to speak with passion, clarity, and specificity are the powers that charismatic leaders possess that make them iconic.

-----Charismatic leaders are known for being visionaries.  Actually, charismatic leaders are excellent at dissecting and deciphering inefficiencies within an organization. The visionary traits attributed to charismatic leaders are often a result of compiling facts, critical thinking, and finding solutions to various problems.  The late Steve Jobs of Apple is an excellent example of a charismatic leader’s ability to discover inefficiencies within the marketplace.  By looking at the marketplace and the emerging needs of consumers, Apple’s invention of I-Tunes transformed the music industry into marketing and selling music online differently.  Leadership training for aspiring charismatic leaders should include problem solving exercises that enhance their critical thinking skills. 

Like any leadership development program, curriculum should be created that invigorates and motivates aspiring charismatic leaders to flourish where they exhibit the greatest strengths. By developing leadership training that addresses the visceral aspects of an individual, more leaders will emerge, generally, and more charismatic leaders, specifically.

References:

Amisano, C. (n.d.). Components of leadership training.eHow (Money). Retrieved from: http://www.ehow.com/list_6054344_components-leadership-training.html

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How to Start Your Own Business Using the Strategies of Charismatic Leaders

Some experts suggest that the best time to start a business is during recessionary times as a means of personal fulfillment and a way to jump start the economy.  Several successful companies got their starts during economic upheaval.   Strauss (2003) noted that:

• 16 of the 30 corporations that make up the Dow Jones industrial average got their starts during recessions.
• Disney began during the recession of 1923-24.
• Hewlett-Packard was begun during the Great Depression (in 1938).
• Microsoft began during the 1975 recession.

However, starting a business during a recession as well as times of prosperity is a challenging task requiring prudence and effective planning. Since most aspiring business owners will most likely begin their business with limited capital and paltry business contacts, personality, passion, and persistence will be your greatest resources. Charismatic leaders operate most effectively when they lack the necessary capital and connections that would prevent traditional leaders from attempting the task.  By following the strategies of charismatic leaders for starting your own business, you can thrive during recessionary times. Here are a few strategies of charismatic leaders.

---Charismatic leaders are known for being visionaries.  Actually, charismatic leaders are excellent at dissecting and deciphering inefficiencies within the marketplace. The visionary traits attributed to charismatic leaders are often a result of compiling facts, critical thinking, and finding solutions to various problems.  The late Steve Jobs of Apple is an excellent example of charismatic leader’s ability to discover inefficiencies within the marketplace.  By looking at the marketplace and the emerging needs of consumers, Apple’s invention of I-Tunes transformed the music industry into marketing and selling music differently online.  If you see business opportunities that are either being underutilized or could be done more efficiently, this is the area you should take advantage.  Charismatic leaders create missions and crusades around problems they observe in society.  Starting your business should be pursued as if it’s your life’s mission to solve a compelling problem with your products or services.

---Charismatic leaders temper passion with relevancy. It is fallacious to believe that “If you build it, they will come.” Many businesses have failed because the owner believed that because he or she liked the product or service everyone else would like it also.  In the last few years, Starbucks has begun shuttering underperforming stores to increase its revenue and curtail “over growth.” Starbucks attempted to rival the growth of McDonald’s and found that its passion for coffee needed to be tempered with its corporate mission.  Starbucks was designed to be a “third place” away from home and office.  By attempting to retail coffee as McDonald’s retails food, it became slightly irrelevant.  As you start your business, be passionate about your product or service, but also be passionate about serving the needs of the population you want to attract.

---Charismatic leaders use current technology to lessen labor intensity.  Charismatic leaders are highly versed in managing people for increased productivity. However, charismatic leaders develop advanced people skills as a means of accomplishing a mission through human labor.  At the end of the day, accomplishing the mission is what charismatic leaders define themselves by. Consequently, the emergence of software technology has allowed business owners the ability to accomplish tasks with less human capital. The self-service checkout lanes in Kroger and Publix supermarkets are excellent for customers who wish to pick up a few items (usually 20 items or less) and hurriedly leave the store. These stores could hire more personnel, but the automated check-out system encourages customers with limited shopping needs to feel as if picking up a few items does not expend a great deal of time. Shorter shopping times encourage return customers.   As you start your business, become acutely aware that your ultimate goals are creating a quality product or service and making a profit.  If the latest software allows you to increase your profitability with less human capital, invest in the latest software.  

  

Personality, passion, and persistence are the core traits of charismatic leaders. By emulating the traits of charismatic leaders as you start your business, you are not only on the road toward financial success, but personal fulfillment.

Reference

Strauss, S. (2003 March 3). Time to start your business may be now. USA Today (online). Retrieved from: http://www.usatoday.com/money/smallbusiness/columnist/strauss/2003-03-03-start_x.htm

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How to Use Charisma During Job Searches and Interviews to Increase Your Hiring Opportunities

In November 2011, the unemployment rate reportedly dropped to 8.6% from 9% (Izzo, 2011). For those who were able to secure a job, this was good news. However, for the millions of Americans still searching for employment, the news did not move the needle one iota. The pain and despair of perpetual unemployment for job seekers can be disheartening to say the least. However, there are a few tips and tactics job seekers can enlist to enhance their charisma during job searches and interviews. Although many employers take the “Don’t call us, we’ll call you” approach, job seekers can obtain an edge by developing their charisma. Historically, charismatic leaders have performed best during times of uncertainty.

During job searches, seize any opportunity for personal contacts and connections. Employers go to luncheons, business forums, and conferences to network and share their knowledge. Job seekers, who stay informed by perusing calendars in business newspapers and chronicles for upcoming events, can establish connections by merely going to these venues. Comedic film maker Woody Allen reportedly said that Ninety percent of life is just showing up. Over time, this statement has been transformed to say 90% of success is merely showing up. If you relentlessly show up and creatively engage employers, your odds of landing a job increase.

When making contacts, use charisma and the art of engagement. It is understandable that an individual who has been out of work for a considerable amount of time will not be the most confident and engaging. However, if you are attempting to impress employers, it is imperative that you become a great actor when lacking enthusiasm. People respect strength over weakness and empowerment over begging. Mentally determine that you are in business for yourself and create inexpensive business cards highlighting your expertise. By operating as a free agent, you stress your abilities as a contractor looking for opportunities, which provides you leverage in creating alliances. By asking “open-ended” questions that require extensive responses, as you represent yourself as a problem solver, you create memorable experiences that tap into the employer’s emotions and intellect.

During job interviews, give employers a snap shot of what working with you would be like. When President Obama was campaigning to get elected, he created images that gave the American people a sense of what he would be like as president. Obama’s airplane had his logo attached to it reminiscent of Air Force One. He would create opportunities to go abroad where throngs of crowds would gather to hear him speak creating the image of having Foreign Affairs experience. Every Obama campaign tactic allowed Americans to feel comfortable with a potential Obama Administration. By conducting yourself as if you are already a part of the company (Having done your research about the company), you give the employer a sense of the benefits for hiring you.

Use stories, animation, and passion to persuade employers. Typical interview questions begin with “Tell me a time when you…” prompting you to share relevant experiences that speak to your job qualifications and ability to fit into the corporate setting. By realizing that your performance is an audition for a part in the company, you should make every effort to draw an employer in with your enthusiasm. Many individuals operate at the bare minimum, but energetic people inspire and motivate others toward excellence. By demonstrating a proven track record of accomplishments, you encourage employers to want to hire you as an asset to the company.

During these uncertain times, there are no quick fixes to securing a job. However, by embracing the notion that charisma entails adopting the rules of engagement and a strategic mindset separates you from competitors. Throughout the annals of history, charismatic leaders have used sheer personality, determination, and fortitude to achieve a mission when no one else believed in the feasibility of their efforts. By following the precepts used by charismatic leaders, you can accomplish your mission of finding your ideal job.

References:

Izzo, P. (2011 Dec. 2). Why did the unemployment rate drop? Wall Street Journal (online). Retrieved from: http://blogs.wsj.com/economics/2011/12/02/why-did-the-unemployment-rate-drop-5/

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How to Develop Charismatic Leadership Skills

Although there is a shortage of effective leaders in the marketplace, there is even more of a shortage of charismatic leaders. The recent death of Apple’s Steve Jobs not only represented an end of an era, but the passing of a charismatic leader who made technology sexy. To be able to add personality to inanimate objects could only stem from the imagination of a charismatic leader. However, there are a few things an aspiring leader can cultivate in developing charismatic leadership skills.

1. - Charismatic leaders are great innovators. Innovation comes through having a preternatural curiosity about how systems work and uncovering the gaps that make systems less efficient. Using Jobs as an example, he saw that Pop culture was influencing the behavior of individuals. Although technology had to have a utilitarian value attached to it, it also needed to be attractive and engaging. Taking cues from the fashion, entertainment, and automotive industries, charismatic leaders discover the latent desires of consumers and fulfill these desires with objects of affection. To develop your charisma, passionately focus on a challenge within your industry and turn solving problems into a mission. You will gain a following by evangelizing, writing, and developing practical solutions to problems.

2. - Charismatic leaders are introspective. Charismatic leaders spend a lot of time reading, thinking, and synthesizing disparate ideas. Although, charismatic leaders are viewed as “great people” persons, a lot of their time is spent pondering ideas in solitude. Charismatic leaders define themselves by their performance. In the movie, “A Beautiful Mind” with Russell Crowe, John Nash had an insatiable desire to create an idea that would gain him recognition and distinction. Many charismatic leaders are similarly motivated. By pondering and sharing the ideas of personal unresolved and unfulfilled aspirations, charismatic leaders become more engaging to adoring participants. By spending more time reveling in the field of ideas, you become more imaginative and heroic in your pursuits.

3. - Charismatic leaders speak with specificity. Although charismatic leaders are noted for passionate and effective oratory, it is their ability to speak with specificity and detail that makes them magnetic. By providing clear, precise, and practical information, employees are able to see their role in an overarching vision. If you begin breaking a mission down step-by-step with passionate oratory that speaks to the long term manifestation of an idea, you will not only free the employee of ambiguity, you will inspire the employee to create options to the mission you may not have considered. In the end, clear and concise communication is used as a motivational device.

Steve Jobs created Apple using many of these traits. If you see your role on the world’s stage as either transformational or merely trying to positively affect your department, using the strategies of charismatic leaders will allow you to have an edge within your industry. 

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How to Use Charisma to Become More Persuasive

Charismatic leaders have a preternatural way of influencing and getting people to do things for them. When taking to extremes, these talents can be viewed as manipulative. However, when accomplished with a sense of mutuality, all parties can benefit from the relationship. The following techniques are used by charismatic leaders to persuade others.

1. Charismatic leaders seek to fulfill hidden as well as expressed needs of others. Charismatic leaders are versed in human nature and know that individuals will generally respond to requests when these requests are tied to a core need within the individual. Charismatic leaders ask questions to determine these needs by tapping into the emotional as well as mental dynamics of individuals. Open-ended questions such as “That’s interesting, what is the greatest challenge you regularly experience in your company?,” help charismatic leaders determine a person’s motivation. By empathizing and sharing experiences that relate to the individual, charismatic leaders create initiatives that recruit people who have a vested interest in a mission.

2. Charismatic leaders speak with passion and specificity. Contrary to popular beliefs about charismatic leaders, they are not “pie in the sky” visionaries who spout impractical and lofty ideas. Charismatic leaders are adept at spotting opportunities and speak directly about the benefits as well as the challenges surrounding a mission. The passion by charismatic leaders stem from their willingness to “own” or personalize initiatives. The personalization of a mission takes on a crusade-like zeal that becomes infectious to potential supporters. Also, Charismatic leaders articulate the completion of tasks within a step-by-step plan that inspires followers to embrace the feasibility of a mission.

3. Charismatic leaders are relentless. Because of personalization and the feasibility of a challenging mission, charismatic leaders judge themselves by their performance. For charismatic leaders, achieving a goal is not merely meeting an objective, but a self-defining opportunity to prove their worth. The tireless efforts of charismatic leaders stem from their identity being wrapped into the mission. As a result, followers are inspired by the leader’s commitment.

To emulate the leadership qualities of charismatic leaders, determine what your core needs are, adopt a mission as your own, commit to it, and execute activities until the mission is complete. By demonstrating and implementing these traits, you will not only find your passion for projects, but people will follow you based on their self-interest.

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How Charismatic Leaders Handle Difficult People

Although charismatic leaders are skillful at handling people in general, they are strategists at handling difficult or hard to get along with people who may be impediments to their goals. Charismatic leaders handle difficult people by:

1. Making an assessment about the social environment they enter. Before any actions are made, charismatic leaders determine the personalities and behaviors of the individuals within an environment. If for example, a manager micromanages a department, the charismatic leader is observational and cautious before interacting with the manager. In this instance, difficulty often stems from the manager’s need for control. The charismatic leader does not give up personal power, but is willing to share power by establishing non-verbal communication boundaries with the manager. The charismatic leader “picks his battles” by determining which issues to address and which issues to ignore.

2.Choosing to be respected rather than to be loved. Charismatic leaders adore being admired, but never at the behest of being disrespected. Difficult people often prey on the weak and will continue exercising disempowering behavior as long as the conditions allow. Charismatic leaders do not thrive in weak relationships, particularly if they are the ones being preyed upon. In this vein, charismatic leaders command respect by never horsing around, pandering, or acting from a position of weakness. Charismatic leaders choose to be professional rather than being nice when dealing with difficult people.

3.Communicating candidly. Difficult people can be crass and stern. Charismatic leaders have the knowledge and comportment to express discontent behind closed doors. Charismatic leaders speak with precision pointing specifically to lapses in communication and asking for, and recommending future ways effective communications can be established. By setting and controlling the stage, charismatic leaders maintain power in determining the protocol for future interactions.

Essentially, charismatic leaders institute a strong presence within an environment, which disallows debilitating or denigrating behavior. To gain leverage over difficult people, charismatic leaders understand that image management and self-control are the keys to maintaining poise and power. The ability to handle and manage difficult people lies in the charismatic leader’s ability to lead with strength, reason, and open lines of communication.

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How Charisma Could Help Occupy Atlanta and Other Protestors Accomplish Their Goals

To bring about fundamental changes within an industry requires a few rules of engagement:

1. Choose a leader who has compelling speaking skills and can articulate a vision that even opponents can respect. Protestors must be media conscious in selecting a leader who speaks with passion and uses imagery and logic to make a case for the mission. Opponents of protestors will listen and modify behavior if they feel a charismatic leader is a threat to their interests.

2. Create an “Angel vs. Villain” storyline. If financial institutions are the villains, protestors should protest the actual locations of financial institutions or affiliates. For protestors to attack public parks causing destruction where tax payers are on the hook produces enemies. Protestors should use the playbook of historical movements. By updating and replicating the success of past demonstrations shows knowledge of history that is progressive and applicable to current organizational needs.

3. Monetize the organization as well as the event. The perpetuity of a crusade necessitates a nexus between grass roots support and long term financial sustainability. Any organization that does not have a financial and marketing component to its operations is doomed for failure.

4. Begin as a fringe organization, but ultimately become mainstream. Americans typically are socially liberal and fiscally conservative. Consequently, a movement that does not take on some of the characteristics of established institutions will be dismissed as a passing fancy. Protestors, no matter how committed, will not gain credibility if they do not professionalize the organization and the movement.

Charismatic leaders are effective at embodying the message and mission of a crusade as well as creating a detailed strategy. Converse to the idea of charismatic leaders being visionaries, they are excellent strategists in meeting the internal needs of protestors and the general public. Occupy protestors will fail if a leader does not emerge with the star appeal of a Barack Obama and the marketing wisdom of a Steve Jobs.

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