5. Charism (grace)
Greek χάρισμα (khárisma) "gift of grace“
plural χαρίσματα (charismata)
similar meanings to modern sense of
personality charisma:
a. "filled with attractiveness or charm"
b. "kindness"
c. "to bestow a favor or service"
d. "to be favored or blessed"
6. Max Weber’s
classic definition
introduced personality charisma sense
Charisma is a certain quality of an individual
personality by virtue of which he is set apart from
ordinary men and treated as endowed with
supernatural, superhuman, or at least specifically
exceptional powers or qualities. These as such are
not accessible to the ordinary person, but are
regarded as of divine origin or as exemplary, and on
the basis of them the individual concerned is treated
as a leader.
7. Identification
fantastic at articulating his vision to others
sensitive to their surroundings
often risk-takers
gathers followers through dint of charm and
personality
8. Style
great at observing others and discerning their
moods, needs and concerns
interaction with people observing the needs
they may change their attitude and presentation
very persuasive
effective use of subtle (body language) and
overt (verbal language) tactics
9. Effects
social skills and personal appeal gains the followers
focus strongly on making the group very clear and distinct
may instill confidence in the group and challenge group
members to meet his expectations
build the image of the group, may elevate and transform
the group makes the group a strong and unified force
Leader will typically attach firmly to the identity of the
group
joining the group is to become one with the leader
10. Musser (1987)
notes that charismatic leaders seek to instill:
a. commitment to ideological goals
b. devotion to themselves
The extent to which either of these two goals
is dominant depends on the underlying
motivations and needs of the leader.
13. Key Concepts
Charisma in leadership occurs when a leader's authority is
based upon what his followers believe are extraordinary personal
traits and qualities of the leader rather than any formal authority
sanctioned by law or office.
A charismatic leader's authority and legitimacy is based solely on
his personal traits, such as heroism, religious sacredness,
extraordinary character, or demagogy. The followers' belief in the
cause or mission of the charismatic leader often reinforces the
leader's authority.
Charismatic leadership is a rather unstable form of leadership.
Remember, it depends on the followers' devotion to a specific
individual rather than a particular office or organization. If the
leader dies, leaves, or is discredited, the organization is likely to
fall apart unless there are other bases of authority.