The Charisma Myth: How Anyone Can Master the Art and Science of Personal Magnetism

The Charisma Myth: How Anyone Can Master the Art and Science of Personal Magnetism
by Olivia Fox Cabane
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Charisma is an exceptionally powerful trait, according to 'charisma coach' Olivia Fox Cabane. 'Charismatic people seem to lead charmed lives: they have more romantic options, they make more money, and they experience less stress,' she writes. ' Like it or not, charisma can make the world go round - it makes people want to do what you want them to do.'

Cabane makes charisma sound like a magical superpower. Still, she insists, anyone can gain it. 'Contrary to popular belief, people are not simply born charismatic ... If charisma were an inherent attribute, charismatic people would always be captivating, and that's just not the case,' she writes. Marilyn Monroe could switch off her charisma like flipping a switch and go unremarked. To switch it back on, Monroe just tweaked her body language, striking a pose.

Because charisma is fluid, you can boost how much you display it. For example, Cabane suggests, think of a time when you felt supremely confident - remember how wowed people were. The episode proved you can exude charisma.

Like many other social skills, charismatic traits are learned early in life. Through application, the behaviours grow instinctive, says Cabane, who identifies late Apple boss Steve Jobs as someone who gradually won poise and warmth. 'I am a socially inept, awkward introvert. Humans are not my thing. That's the reason I'm perfect for teaching charisma - I had to learn it,' the Californian consultant told Business Journal in a March 30, 2012, report.

Cabane has lectured at top US universities and the United Nations. As an executive coach to Fortune 500 companies, her clients include Google, Deloitte, and Citigroup. Despite her credentials, her advice is grounded in a simple formula. Charisma consists of three things: warmth, power and presence.