Charisma is an individual’s ability to attract and influence other people. While it is often described as a mysterious quality that one either has or doesn't have, some experts argue that the skills of charismatic people can be learned and cultivated.
How to Develop Charisma
Like many characteristics, charisma is not something you simply have or don’t have. There are different ways of defining what counts as charisma, and some people possess certain—or sometimes, many—charismatic qualities in above-average proportions, from a talent for emotional storytelling to beaming confidence.
While charisma is sometimes described as a “gift,” some experts have sought to break it down into specific characteristics and argue that it can be learned. Many people, not just celebrities and presidents, use their charisma to stand out from the crowd.
A variety of specific characteristics and techniques have been described by charisma researchers as communicatory elements that could increase charisma . They include tactics such as using metaphors and lists in talking about issues, telling stories that capture attention, and expressing shared emotions and moral conviction, as well as using gestures, facial expressions, and other nonverbals to express emotions and make an impression.
Charisma may come more naturally to some people—certain personality traits, like extroversion , could help. But even highly charismatic people may have learned from role models along the way, and some experts believe that charismatic behaviors can be trained.
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For a comprehensive understanding of charisma, read our complete guide: