For those wanting to be more charismatic, there is evidence that it is not such a magical, or imperceptible quality as it might first seem.
Most of it stems from the way we use words and how points are conveyed. For example, in one set of studies, Antonakis trained middle managers at a German company and MBA students to be perceived as more charismatic by using what he calls charismatic leadership tactics.
These are made up of nine core verbal tactics including metaphors, stories and anecdotes, contrasts, lists and rhetorical questions. Speakers should demonstrate moral conviction, share the sentiments of the audience they are targeting, set high expectations for themselves, and communicate confidence. Managers trained to use these tactics were rated as more competent, more trusted and able to influence others. MBA students who analysed recordings of themselves giving speeches, with these tactics in mind, ultimately gave new speeches that were rated as more charismatic.
“Margaret Thatcher was unbelievably charismatic because of her rhetoric and use of these tactics,” Antonakis says. Analysis of a speech the UK Prime Minister delivered to the Conservative Party Conference in 1980, known as ‘The lady’s not for turning’, highlighted her extensive use of many of these verbal tricks. Her speech was packed with metaphors, rhetorical questions, stories, contrasts, lists, and references to ambitious goals.
But it’s not just how you use words that is important. Body language, gestures, facial expressions and tone of voice contribute to emotional signalling too and should match the message you want to convey. “What you need to convey [is] the appropriate emotion to what you’re saying. You need to look credible so people will trust you, ” says Antonakis.
Top tips: shower, and ditch the Atari T-shirt.
(Score: 2) by martyb on Tuesday November 07 2017, @05:43PM
First off, thanks for noticing the dept line... I often wonder how many people even know it's there or bother to read it.
I agree that, having mastery of one's material, there are steps one can take that can help one convey that information to others in a more palatable and engaging way — having charisma, however you define that, certainly helps.
Sadly, I've too often seen the reverse happen where, lacking deep knowledge of a subject, the presenter attempts to overcome that lack through charisma. Hence an adage I don't recall seeing anywhere, but I sum it up as:
PS: I have found much wisdom in the Wizard's Rules [wikia.com] presented in "The Sword of Truth" series of books by Terry Goodkind. The Wizard's First Rule seems apropos to this discussion:
Charisma and confidence — combined with some knowledge of human nature — can go a long ways to persuading people that a lie is true.
Wit is intellect, dancing.