The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader: Charisma

We continue our learning and growing with the lessons contained in John C. Maxwell’s book titled The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader. This book carries the subtitle: "Becoming the Person Others Will Want to Follow".

Everything rises and falls on leadership. And leadership truly develops from the inside out. If you can become the leader you ought to be on the inside, you will be able to become the leader you want to be on the outside. People will want to follow you.

Quality #2 - Charisma: the first impression can seal the deal.

“How can you have charisma? Be more concerned about making others feel good about themselves than you are making them feel good about you ." - Dan Reiland, Vice President of Leadership Development, INJOY

Most people think of charisma as something mystical, almost undefinable. They think it's a quality that comes at birth or not at all. But that's not true. Charisma, plainly stated, is the ability to draw people to you. And like other traits, it can be developed.

To make yourself the kind of person who attracts others, you need to personify these pointers:

1. Love life
   1. People enjoy leaders who enjoy life.
   2. If you want to attract people, you need to be like the people you enjoy being with.
2. Put a "10" on every person's head
   1. One of the best things you can do for people - which also attracts them to you - is to expect the best of them.
   2. If you appreciate others, encourage them, and help them reach their potential, they will love you for it.
3. Give people hope
   1. French General Napoleon Bonaparte characterized leaders as "dealers in hope".
   2. If you can be the person who bestows that gift on others, they will be attracted to you, and they will be forever grateful.
4. Share yourself
   1. People love leaders who share themselves and their life journeys
   2. As you lead people, give of yourself.
   3. Share wisdom, resources, and even special occasions.

“I have yet to find the man, however exalted his situation, who did not do better work and put forth greater effort under a spirit of approval than under a spirit of criticism." - Charles Schwab, Industrialist

Bringing it home:

1. Change your focus.
   1. Determine to tip the balance in favor of focusing on others.
2. Play the first impression game.
   1. The next time you meet someone for the first time, try your best to make a good impression, Learn the person's name. Focus on his interests. Be positive. And most important, treat him as a "10".
3. Share yourself.
1. Make it your long-term goal to share your resources with others. Provide resources to help them grow personally and professionally, and share your personal journey with them.

Donald G Rosenbarger
Senior Vice President
Delta Companies Inc.