Characteristics of Followers.

 

Because charismatic leadership results from a relationship between a leader and followers, the followers of such leaders demonstrate certain characteristics. Without the leader and the followers, no charismatic relationships can form. For example, take away the frenzied followers and Hitler would not have been considered charismatic.

 

First and foremost, followers hold the leader in high esteem. They are strongly devoted to him, a process that further helps followers internalize the leader’s values and aspiration as their own.

 

Researchers suggest that charismatic leaders change the followers’ perception of the nature of what needs to be done.

 

Leaders offer an appealing vision of the future, develop a common identity and heighten the followers’ self-esteem and sense of self-efficacy. In addition, one of the key components of the emergence of charismatic leaders is for the follower to perceive a need for change because the current state is unacceptable and because they believe that a crisis is either imminent or already exists.

 

Characteristics of Followers of Charismatic Leaders:

• High degree of respect and esteem for the leader

• Loyalty and devotion to the leader

• Identification with the leader

• High confidence in leader

• high performance expectations

• Unquestioning obedience