Michael Grinder & Associates

by Michael Grinder 

I often get asked about the qualities of an effective, charismatic leader. One important quality is the ability to be comfortable within one’s position – especially as it relates to the need to use power instead of influence. A person-in-charge’s comfort when managing directly affects the group’s ability to function. She manages in many directions such as upwards with bosses, downwards with subordinates, and sideways with colleagues. In addition, she often has different management styles based on the direction she is managing.

Her style needs to fit the culture of the group or organization. If the culture is "cat-oriented," she is expected to comply with the level above and to expect compliance from the level below. In a "dog-oriented" culture, she is expected to have fewer differences in how she interacts with people above and below her position.

The Key to Her Success

When she breathes low, it is a sign that she is comfortable with both the use of influence and power as it relates to management. It is wise for someone to pick a culture and a position inside that organization that matches their style of comfort.  In general, people want to work for someone who is comfortable buffering pressure from above, holding peers accountable, and supporting their handling of inappropriate subordinates.

To learn more about Being An Effective Charismatic Leader consider our upcoming Effective Charismatic Leadership Certification beginning in April 2009.