Charisma is defined as ‘compelling attractiveness or charm that can inspire devotion in others.’ Not to be mistaken with aggressive and commanding leaders or Type A personalities, this one is about being ‘likeable’ to the extent, that people would go out of their way to help you. Charismatic personalities have the capacity to galvanize hordes of followers, inculcate meaning and purpose into their collective efforts, without having the backing of authority or position or title.
Often considered to be an inexpressive quality which encapsulates the innate gift to attract, charm and influence people around you, it can be broken down into various characteristics that make one charismatic. Napoleon Hill, author of ‘Think and Grow Rich’, wrote about the habits of the most likable people in his essay ‘Develop A Pleasing Personality’, eventually published in ‘The Science of Success.’
Here are the 15 characteristics that can make you charismatic and create personal magnetism.
They are extremely good listeners and pay close attention to what someone is saying to them. Rarely do they interrupt, and they never lecture.
They are always cheerful and often smile whilst speaking to others. There are authentic in their cheerfulness and enthusiasm and rarely display ‘moody’ behaviour.
They are confident and their speech, tone, body language, mannerisms are all aligned to showcase their confidence.
They speak deliberately and confidently with a passionate, disciplined, and friendly voice. They do not over-communicate and neither do they lecture; their words are measured.
They develop a positive mental attitude, and are optimistic, but they never let over-optimism nudge away reality. They are keen to make adjustments that will lead to long-term success.
They always maintain their composure and refuse to over-react to any situation, be it beneficial or adverse, positive or negative. Napoleon Hill says, ‘Remember that silence may be much more effective than your angry words.’
They move forward in a determined manner, are sincere and dedicated and they never procrastinate. Holding themselves back or by being seen to delay or defer decisions and actions will send the wrong signals to their followers.
They are always willing to help other people and often believe in doing ‘good deeds’ without expecting anything in return.
They do not brood over wrong decisions or failures but are quick to examine the cause and set forth on a corrective course. Remember, people sympathize with those who wallow in failure but admire those who rise from failure to success.
They recognize, reward, shower praise and applaud achievements sincerely and never excessively or automatically or to show-off.
Unlike Type A personalities who are impatient and in a tearing hurry to get things going, charismatic people are patient. They realise that timing and empathy are equally important.
Their behaviour personifies authenticity in everything they say or do, they do not pretend. They appreciate feedback, especially from a close confidante, which can help them continually improve.
They have an open mind and they are receptive to ideas and suggestions – they value the opinion of subject matter experts.
They are genuinely interested in the people they are interacting with and pay complete attention, looking the person in the eye. They believe conversations are a chance to know more about the other person.
They know how to hold their tongue and speak only when required and in a concise manner. They are also aware that not everything they think or have an opinion about needs to be communicated.