What is Charisma?

According to the book Charismatic Leadership, "charismatic leaders generally exhibit such attributes as extraordinary emotional expressiveness, self-confidence, self-determination, and freedom from internal conflict" and "a strong conviction in the righteousness of their own beliefs" (p.46).

Followers, on the other hand, feel "heightened performance and motivation" and "a sense of empowerment" (p.328) when they find a leader whom they can trust.  Followers identify with the leader, and feel a "willing obedience" toward them, and "make the leader their own conscience" (p.330).

Leaders cause followers to feel good about themselves.  Followers do the same for leaders by feeding their need for power and status.  Motivation works both ways.