Understanding the charismatic relationship: A dramaturgical approach

Throughout time, charismatic leaders have aroused the curiosity of potential and actual followers. There exists a mystique about the many methods, ranging from forceful to subliminal, that they adopt to influence followers. This article employs a dramaturgical approach to examine how gifted leaders use impression management behaviors to create and maintain charismatic relationships with followers. Also discussed are the behaviors of framing, scripting, staging, and performing, which help charismatic leaders to secure and retain their powerful persona. We discuss their use of the impression management strategies of exemplification, promotion, and facework as well. Next, we consider the role of context and the question of how and why followers attribute charisma and come to identify with the leader. We conclude with a checklist of practical recommendations for leaders to apply in cultivating charismatic relationships with their followers.