Rowitz On Leadership

In one of my Sociology theory classes many years ago, we discussed the theorist Max Weber and his ideas concerning the nature of charisma. These discussions relate to leadership and how many leaders have a persona that attracts other people.  Individuals like Presidents  Kennedy, Reagan, and Obama give us real life examples of this.  In 1960, Kennedy visited our college campus to make an address on why he was running for the presidency He was an electrifying speaker.  I was overwhelmed by every word he said.   Years later I was in a hotel where Obama was speaking,  He was able to light up the room. People hung onto every word that he spoke. And yet, these three individuals still had unplanned crises to address during their presidencies with both positive and negative consequences. Although these men aimed high for their administration, they made mistakes and also adversaries.   Some  charismatic leaders can be evil in their actions while many lead from a more positive stance.  Hitler was an evil kind of leader.  Many followed him regardless.  Thus charisma will pull adherents in and their actions can dim the charismatic light and either have their followers abandon them and their leadership or remain followers blinded by the light.

What are some of the characteristics of a charismatic leader:

1. Better than average appearance.

2, Excellent communication skills.

3. Excellent public speakers with great eye contact.

4. Very successful in gaining followers who faithfully follow instructions.

5. Tend to be self-centered.

6. Appear trustworthy,

7. Generally aware of  understanding the context in which they apply action.

8. Strong motivator and influencer of followers.

9. Have tempers that are activated by people who disagree with them.

10.  Tendency to exaggerate and extend the truth in order to protect public image and personal self-esteem.

Think of leaders who you find charismatic and leaders who appear not to be charismatic.  Do they have the characteristics listed above,  Are thre important characteristics missing from the above list?