Strategic Fund Development: Building Profitable Relationships That Last, Third Edition

Is Charisma Essential to Leadership?

Absolutely not. Just read Built to Last for documented proof.

The dictionary defines charisma as “a personal magic of leadership arousing special popular loyalty or enthusiasm for a public figure; a specific magnetic charm or appeal.” As usual, watch the morphing at www.visualthesaurus.com. But charisma does not guarantee substance, and leaders have substance. Take a look at those whom you would describe as charismatic. Are they necessarily good leaders or are they simply engaging and somehow magical?

Now take a look at the individuals you respect as leaders. Is it charisma that encourages you to follow these leaders or is it their ability to influence you with meaningful information? Is it charisma that inspires you or is it the leader’s ability to communicate values and involve you in dialogue?

The quality of leaders matters less than the quality of citizens.

—George Scialabba, a book critic living in Cambridge, Massachusetts, whose reviews appear in such publications as the Nation, the American Prospect, and the Boston Globe

Consider this definition for leadership, modified from the U.S. Marine Corps manual (note there is no reference to charisma): Leadership is the art of influencing and directing people in such a way as to obtain their willing support, confidence, respect, and loyal cooperation to accomplish a mission.