Olivia Fox Cabane

The Charisma Myth

1. IDEA 1

   Charisma can be learned

   Cabane argues that charisma is not a natural gift possessed by a lucky few. It is a set of behaviours, she says, that anyone can learn and practise. In her view, it is a skill, not a gift.

2. IDEA 2

   Charisma has three parts

   Cabane identifies presence, power and warmth as the three elements of charisma. People who combine them are seen as charismatic. In her account, each part supports the others, and a gap in one can weaken the whole impression.

3. IDEA 3

   Presence comes first

   Cabane argues that being fully present, paying complete attention to the person in front of you, is the foundation of charisma. People notice when attention wanders. In her view, a distracted listener leaves the other person feeling unimportant.

All 8 ideas from The Charisma Myth →