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What makes people charismatic?

22 replies

Mindthegob · 31/07/2022 18:38

Just that really. There was a guy in the pub last night who had something about him, confident, funny, always knew the right thing to say, commanded the room. What is that quality which makes someone shine in that way?

OP posts:
Zone2NorthLondon · 31/07/2022 18:44

Charisma it’s as you describe it. Easy going compelling manner that puts you at ease
Good talker, can work a room, makes people feel special. has ability to make people feel relaxed and valued

Stayathomenamechange · 31/07/2022 18:45

I think part of the secret is being genuinely interested in other people and really listening to what they tell you. Would you say that was true of the guy in the pub? It's such a rare skill that people who are good at it almost seem to have a magic power! So many people are desperate to start getting their own stories in, or wondering what to say or how they come across, etc.

tigertigerg · 31/07/2022 18:51

being charming, chatty, approachable however it can have a dark side as its also a bit manipulative.

Zone2NorthLondon · 31/07/2022 18:55

It’s a rare quality to have, I have met a few genuinely charismatic and decent people. Agree,It does have the potential for being manipulative if misused

HeadNorth · 31/07/2022 19:00

My youngest can have enormous charm, but as others have noted- it can be used for good or ill. I don’t know how she does it, but I would say she is a genuinely kind and lovely person - as long as it suits her.

BMW6 · 31/07/2022 19:02

Charisma can't be acted or faked. You can't be taught how to have it.

You either have it or you don't. It can be very dangerous if the wrong person has it (Hitler had ut by the bucket apparently). I think lots of actors have it - possibly why they make the break onto the "big time ".

Jesus probably had it. Perhaps Mohammed too. Something that appeals to vast numbers of people above others who say the same thing but don't get the crowds in support.

It could be the most dangerous or most beneficial quality a person can have.

Mindthegob · 31/07/2022 19:24

Here’s the thing- he was just utterly cool. His appearance, mannerisms, personality everything was just a notch above everyone else. It wasn’t really the looks though, more the way he was. Which I can’t adequately describe…

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tigertigerg · 31/07/2022 19:26

can be very dangerous if the wrong person has it (Hitler had ut by the bucket apparently). I think lots of actors have it - possibly why they make the break onto the "big time ".

yes it's the X factor, the star power, it's why there could be 10 people on stage but you will be drawn to one etc.

Mindthegob · 31/07/2022 19:56

tigertigerg · 31/07/2022 19:26

can be very dangerous if the wrong person has it (Hitler had ut by the bucket apparently). I think lots of actors have it - possibly why they make the break onto the "big time ".

yes it's the X factor, the star power, it's why there could be 10 people on stage but you will be drawn to one etc.

It’s funny, because this has reminded me of reading about the casting for Neighbours and how certain actors had a big presence. They probably meant Charisma. Young Kylie definitely had it.

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PinkPanther57 · 31/07/2022 20:10

Geri Halliwell- her ability to work a room was one key driver of Spice Girl success.

Meghan Markle. When combined with very good looks, dynamite.

Simon Cowell.

Zone2NorthLondon · 01/08/2022 19:22

IMO, Geri Horner is loathsome shes garrulous that’s not the same as charismatic
she’s not universally liked although Clearly some folk like her

Watchthesunrise · 01/08/2022 20:34

My DH is very charismatic. Always in command of a room. Everyone loves him, especially older women.

He's actually a very likeable and nice guy too.

What makes him charismatic is that he is widely read and widely travelled, so he can contribute to a discussion about almost anything, and he has a cheeky sense of humour so can make witty observations that people find funny.

People who don't know me are always a bit surprised that we're together tbh. Because I'm a bit dull and not that physically attractive (unless you like amazonian slightly fat bespectacled women). I'm kind and interesting to talk in private and dynamite in bed too. So that's why he likes me.

LadyVictoriaSponge · 01/08/2022 20:52

I would never describe Geri Haliwell as charismatic!, just loud and pushy.

CountFoscoslittlewhitemice · 01/08/2022 20:58

I recently read a description of charisma as " charm that inspires devotion ". Thought it was quite a good description.

Mindthegob · 01/08/2022 21:28

CountFoscoslittlewhitemice · 01/08/2022 20:58

I recently read a description of charisma as " charm that inspires devotion ". Thought it was quite a good description.

That’s a great description! I have no idea about Geri or the others as I haven’t seen them on TV much.

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picklespark · 01/08/2022 21:32

I've definitely met people like this too.

This article from a few years ago on whether there are elements of charisma that can be taught is an interesting read www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2016/dec/17/can-you-learn-how-to-be-charismatic-charisma-shy-business

AyeUpMeDuck · 01/08/2022 21:32

I think The Rock is the most Charismatic man on earth right now.
I remember him from his wrestling days and you could see it there. He'd walk out on stage with thousands and thousands of people and have them eating out of his hand and cheering like crazy.
It's confidence, charm, wit, intelligence and a dash of one imperceptible.

blueshoes · 01/08/2022 21:43

I agree with all the qualities said like confidence etc. That said, I don't think you can discount looks and presence. There is something about this person that naturally draws your eye. As someone said, out of 10 people on stage, you are drawn to one.

Harry Styles in One Direction, why him? Mick Jagger, Freddie Mercury. They usually have strong features and mannerisms which pique your interest and open inviting demeanor which makes them approachable. The Rock won't be charismatic if he did not have the same stature and bearing.

Once drawn in, the personality then tops it off. But you need both.

Zone2NorthLondon · 02/08/2022 19:27

I used to work with a charismatic consultant, very smart,personable,attentive . All the patients and staff loved the consultant. Frequently called as an expert witness too. A joy to work for, I was junior and on rotation and it was a fantastic learning environment.

Mindthegob · 02/08/2022 19:50

blueshoes · 01/08/2022 21:43

I agree with all the qualities said like confidence etc. That said, I don't think you can discount looks and presence. There is something about this person that naturally draws your eye. As someone said, out of 10 people on stage, you are drawn to one.

Harry Styles in One Direction, why him? Mick Jagger, Freddie Mercury. They usually have strong features and mannerisms which pique your interest and open inviting demeanor which makes them approachable. The Rock won't be charismatic if he did not have the same stature and bearing.

Once drawn in, the personality then tops it off. But you need both.

He does everything well though, action, comedy, sensitivity, drama, laughing at himself he is credible in any of those roles!

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TalkingToMyselfAgain · 02/08/2022 19:54

One of my sons is like that - he can get on well with anyone, no matter what their age/status etc. He's genuinely interesting but also shows real interest in what the other person is saying. He's confident but not arrogant, knowledgeable without being a know-all, and successful without ever bragging. His GF said he's the most charismatic man she's ever known. I'm immensley proud.

mackthepony · 02/08/2022 19:57

I do think there's a certain amount of good looks that's needed too

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