9 Ways to Instant Charisma

The summer is winding down but there's no stoppingselecting a candidate for consideration in a senior
the heat coming from both sides of the long, drawnleadership role.
out presidential campaign."In a job interview, you are more likely to be hired if
What do you look for in determining your choice forthe interviewer likes you as a person. In a business
president?situation, you are more likely to get deals done and
Are good communication skills critical to success? Asgain favors. In a personal situation, you are likely to
in business, how important are one's technical skills,gain trust and loyal friendships." This simple and often
experience and expertise? Is likeability moreoverlooked advice comes from a piece I recently
important than experience? What about charisma?came across in ThinkSimpleNow-a candidly written
Does Obama have these qualities? Does McCain?lifestyle blog on finding clarity, motivation, creativity
Does it matter?and personal happiness-which itself was cited in a
According to a recent article in the New York Times,recent ExecuNet article.
there is a common belief that says being presidentPracticing these techniques may not instantly turn on
should be more a "vision" job than a "management"the charisma switch, but you will likely be more
job. What do you think?engaging, more memorable and more confident. It
We'll soon find out.may also help you recognize the next leader your
"Charisma," according to Merriam-Webster, is acompany will be hiring.
personal magic of leadership arousing special popular1. Mirroring: Subtly mimic the other person's physical
loyalty or enthusiasm for a public figure (as a politicalbehaviors.
leader); also, a special magnetic charm or appeal.2. Remember names: This is an essential business skill
We all know people who are charismatic. They haveand one that is not easy to master if it doesn't come
that remarkable, easy ability to attract others-andnaturally.
opportunity-their way. Maybe you already have that3. Be interested: Ask questions of others and practice
quality, but if you don't, the following tips may helpactive listening.
you develop the power of attraction and widen your4. Allow others to talk: Someone once told me there
appeal.is a reason we have twice as many ears as we have
Search firm recruiters tell ExecuNet, an executivemouths.
career, business and recruiting network, that5. Intention: Forge an internal connection by wishing
"charisma" is typically in the top 10 list of words theysomeone good thoughts.
equate with leadership. It goes without saying,6. Offer help: The underpinning to networking.
likeability has strong professional implications.7. Smile: This one action can quickly improve your or
For the hundreds of client companies I have workedsomeone else's day.
with over the years, personality and chemistry-being8. Authenticity: Keep it real.
a good "cultural fit"-has stood out as the most9. Enthusiasm: Nothing is more contagious.
important "success" factor when evaluating and