West Palm Beach July 2026

J U LY 2 0 2 6 | W E S T PA L M B E A C H 5 - By Bob Fashano - W hat is the “Attraction Power” a leader should possess? Some would refer to this leader as charismatic. Often, charisma is easy to notice in people; however, it can be difficult to define. Here is Webster’s New World definition: “A special quality in one that inspires devotion or fascination.” In simple terms, we know one when we see one. Charisma is more than someone with a strong personality. A strong personality can indeed attract others. It can also turn people the other way. True charisma functions like a magnet. A leader with real charisma has the ability to bring “people in,” engage with them, and make them feel valued and heard. Those qualities attract and inspire. A leader with charisma will draw people to his/her cause. Many researchers and leadership experts describe a person with charisma as warm and demonstrating care and interest in others. Additionally, they have found that having confidence and a sense of certainty defines a person with charisma. We also should remember what charisma is not. It is not being overly extroverted. It is not being loud or trying to outsmart everyone in the room. In fact, I know people who, in my view, are very charismatic and are somewhat to themselves and quiet. However, because they possess the qualities outlined above, when they speak, people listen. COMMUNITY Attraction Power Some people may have a natural bias toward charisma. I believe it can be a learned behavior. Demonstrating interest in the other person when they are speaking. Maintaining 100% focus and eye contact goes a long way in being attractive. Communicating effectively is helpful. I have found that the above qualities in a leader can be learned and developed over time. It just requires awareness and being intentional. Bob Fashano is the founder of Lead One Consulting, LLC, an executive Coaching and Leadership Development Company located in Palm Beach Gardens. Bob Is a certified Executive Coach from the Center for Executive Coaching and a member of the International Coaching Federation. He is the author of a recently released book, "Make Today Your Masterpiece" and a new book to be released in the fourth quarter of 2026. He serves on the Keiser Flagship Advisory Counsel. “A SPECIAL QUALITY IN ONE THAT INSPIRES DEVOTION OR FASCINATION.” Imagine you are in a room with a large group of people. Two leaders walk into the room—one leader wants to be noticed, wants everyone’s attention, and essentially says “Here I am.” The second leader enters the room ( the charismatic leader) and essentially says, “There you are.” The challenge for all leaders is, which one are you? When we spend time with a person with charisma, we walk away with a “feel-good. " They have valued you, you feel you can trust them, and, as a result, you will willingly follow them.