Quick Tip – Do You Believe in Charisma?

It can be learned and practiced – Issue #72

People with charisma seem to have an effortless ability to attract, charm, and influence others. Some believe that it is a natural talent (i.e., you’re born with a certain amount of charisma). Others suggest that charisma is a bundle of behaviors and skills that can be learned.

I believe that some people do naturally have more of what you could call “charisma” than others. However, I also believe that you can learn to be more charming and influential.

Also, while some would argue that charisma isn’t necessary within a professional context (e.g., being a great leader), I strongly disagree. When you are trying to persuade, get things done, inspire people, and influence others, charisma makes it all easier.

What are the factors that contribute to a perception of charisma? They include:

Pay attention to that list. Nowhere in those factors did I include that you should be a certain height, be attractive, have dazzling white teeth, or have a high IQ.

You have absolute control over every one of those factors. You can develop your self-confidence. You can deliberately speak and behave with more energy, enthusiasm, and passion. You can make better eye contact with other people. You can choose to be more friendly.

You can dial up your body language while speaking (e.g., use your hands to express yourself, stand up straight, smile). You can ask people questions, pay attention when they speak, and show that you care about them.

The only question is: do you care?

If you want to be more charismatic because you know that it will help you with your career goals, you can invest in making it happen.

Leave a Comment

You must be logged in to post a comment.