How to Coach Yourself and Others Essential Knowledge For Coaching | Page 492

Discussion
The Charismatic Leader and the Transformational Leader can have
many similarities, in that the Transformational Leader may well be
charismatic. Their main difference is in their basic focus. Whereas the
Transformational Leader has a basic focus of transforming the
organization and, quite possibly, their followers, the Charismatic Leader
may not want to change anything.
Despite their charm and apparent concern, the Charismatic Leader may
well be somewhat more concerned with themselves than anyone else. A
typical experience with them is that whilst you are talking with them, it
is like being bathed in a warm and pleasant glow, in which they are very
convincing. Yet afterwards, ask the sunbeam of their attention is moved
elsewhere, you may begin to question what they said (or even whether
they said anything of significance at all).
The values of the Charismatic Leader are highly significant. If they are
well-intentioned towards others, they can elevate and transform an
entire company. If they are selfish and Machiavellian, they can create
cults and effectively rape the minds (and potentially the bodies) of the
followers.
Their self-belief is so high, they can easily believe that they are infallible,
and hence lead their followers into an abyss, even when they have
received adequate warning from others. The self-belief can also lead
them into psychotic narcissism, where their self-absorption or need for
admiration and worship can lead to their followers questioning their
leadership.
They may also be intolerant of challengers and their irreplaceability
(intentional or otherwise) can mean that there are no successors when
they leave.

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