People management is a key element in the success of a company , and individuals in senior positions have an important role in the running of the company and how a team feels and performs.

However, there are many types of leadership, and each has its peculiarities, its pros and cons. Some work and fit better in some contexts and others in different contexts. In this article we will talk about a type of leadership that has given much to talk about in recent times: charismatic leadership.

Types of leadership

Each person is a world, and when it comes to relating to others we all have our own way of behaving. Experts say that there are different types of leadership. The most important ones are the following:

  • Laissez-faire : This type of leadership is also called delegated leadership. It is a style in which the employees usually have great freedom, and the leader only intervenes when necessary.
  • Autocratic : It is a leadership style in which the leader has great power. It is managerial leadership and all decisions are made by him. If you want to know more about its advantages and disadvantages, you can read our article “Autocratic (or authoritarian) leadership: advantages and disadvantages”.
  • Democratic : Also known as participatory leader, because it involves subordinates in decision making.
  • Transactional : A results-oriented leadership style. Ideal for sales teams.
  • Transformational : Also known as charismatic, it motivates and makes team members go in the same direction.

In this article we will go deeper into charismatic leadership, if you want to know more about the others, you can read our article “Types of Leadership: The 5 most common types of leaders”

Characteristics of Charismatic Leadership

Charismatic leaders have a great capacity to influence their subordinates and other individuals, and establish win-win working dynamics. They are called charismatic leaders because they have an exceptional charisma and are concerned about remaining faithful to their followers. Some of the most outstanding values of these leaders are honesty, altruism or ethics.

Now, what makes these leaders different and extremely valued today? What are their main characteristics? In the following lines we explain them.

1. connect with the emotions of subordinates

If there is something that characterizes this leadership style, it is the emotional connection that exists between superiors and subordinates . Despite the tension and competitiveness that can be found in the world of work, these leaders create closeness with their subordinates, because they care about their needs. The latter become their followers without the need to impose anything.

2. Communication

Charismatic leaders possess exceptional social skills and also communication skills . In this way they manage to connect with their subordinates, who feel valued and respected. This is also key to motivating workers, and studies suggest that charismatic leadership helps to reduce the stress levels of employees, improves their well-being and makes them feel part of the organisation.

3. Self-confidence

For others to respect us, we must trust ourselves . These leaders enjoy a high degree of self-confidence and security so they are able to talk to others in a calm manner. Others perceive this self-confidence, something that is very attractive in interpersonal relationships.

4. Motivation

Charismatic leaders make the workers feel good in the company and aligned with the values and the objectives of the organization, so that the workers remain motivated, and bring out the best in themselves, thus increasing their performance and that of the company.

5. Active listening

Active listening is a characteristic of charismatic leaders , who not only listen to the workers but also allow them to express their concerns. Charismatic leaders pay attention to the needs of the workers and their concerns, because they understand that happy workers are more efficient.

6. Creativity

Charismatic leaders are creative people, who usually have a vision beyond limits and fears . That is why they lead the way for their followers and are able to influence them. When a problem arises, they understand that they must solve it and they face it. They see in crises opportunities to grow. Moreover, this type of leadership encourages the creativity of their employees.

7. Vision

These leaders fit perfectly into the changing environment because they have a great vision of the future and bring stability to companies. By being creative, they also find solutions even in situations of transformation. They are leaders who motivate and inspire others, and empower employees in the face of change. A Universum study revealed that 41 percent of the managers surveyed were looking for employee empowerment leaders for their companies.

The success of this type of leadership is due to their vision of the future and their ability to communicate it.

8. Determination

Having vision is something that can often arise in many people’s minds , but not everyone moves from thought to action. Charismatic leaders have a great capacity for determination, set specific objectives and work to achieve them together with the team.

The Charismatic Personality

In addition to these specific characteristics of leaders, charismatic people have a number of traits and habits. If you want to know them, you can read our article “Charismatic personality: 14 traits and habits of unique individuals”.