s from non-charismatic leaders. The following are seven key characteristics of charismatic leaders:Self-confidence Charismatic leaders have complete confidence in their judgment and ability.Vision They have an idealized goal that proposes a future better than the status quo. The greater the disparity between this idealized goal and the status quo, the more likely that followers will attribute extraordinary vision to the leader.Ability to articulate the vision They are able to clarify and state the vision in terms that are understandable to others. This articulation demonstrates an understanding of the followers needs and, hence, acts as a motivating force.Strong convictions about the vision Charismatic leaders are perceived as being strongly committed and willing to take on high personal risk, incur high costs, and engage in self-sacrifice to achieve their vision.Behavior that is out of the ordinary They engage in behavior that is perceived as being novel, unconventional, and counter to norms. When successful, these behaviors evoke surprise and admiration in followers.Appearance as a change agent Charismatic leaders are perceived as agents of radical change rather than as caretakers of the statue quo.Environmental sensitivity They are able to make realistic assessments of the environmental constraints and resources needed to bring about change.Charismatic leaders have a compelling vision or sense of purpose; they could communicate that vision in clear terms that their followers could readily identify with; they demonstrated consistency and focus in the pursuit of their vision; and they know their own strengths and capitalize on them. It has also been found that charismatic leaders have an idealized goal that they want to achieve and a strong personal commitment to that goal; they are perceived as unconventional; are assertive and self-confident; and are perceived as agents of radical change rather than as managers of the status q...
