House’s (1977) Charismatic Leadership
In 1977, Robert House proposed a new theory called charismatic leadership based on earlier theories by Max Weber. Charismatic leadership can be defined as a mostly emotionally connection between the leader and the followers. In this theory, the follower identifies with the behavior, values and goals of the leader and becomes devoted to their objective.
To win over the followers, the leader must possess exceptional qualities that are distinctly different from any of the other choices. The leader is often chosen because they are seen as dominant and they instill a feeling of confidence. This feeling of confidence is often because the leader is a self-confident individual themselves. Confidence, like an infectious disease, can spread and motivate the followers to work harder, be more efficient and even accomplish high-level goals.
Charismatic leaders have a, “natural predisposition to be self-assured (2014, pp. 73).” The self-assured personality trait is needed when trying to influence the follower. The leader can often take complex ideas and communicate them effectively. Most importantly, they can do it with conviction. An example of this is the “I have a Dream” speech by Dr. Martin Luther King. Dr. King tells a story and uses vivid examples to convey his message. The story speaks of his vision and expresses his moral values.
Another example of a charismatic leader is Quint Studor, a leader in the health care industry. If you have ever seen one of his training videos, he has that “it” factor that can captivate and motivate an audience.
Some weaknesses of a charismatic leader is that over time, the ideas that were once inspiring and productive, become old and stagnant. To make matters worse, the leader also tends to place “yes men” in other leadership roles around them. They may also have a tendency to become narcissistic and insensitive to the subordinates. This would be detrimental to any organization.
Although charismatic leaders are rare, they do exist. With great risk, comes great reward. I believe it is ever harder to find charismatic leaders in the healthcare industry due to heavy regulation and expectations. Most health care organizations look for consistency and results. The health care industry needs charismatic leaders more than ever to raise the bar and overcome all these recent changes. Charismatic leaders are only successful, when their ideas and visions prove to be effective. This atmosphere may be the perfect opportunity for a charismatic leader who is innovative and wants to try new ideas.

Resource
Ledlow, G. & Coppola, M. (2014) Leadership for the Health Professionals: Theory, Skills and Applications. (Second edition, pp. 73). Burlington, MA. Jones & Bartlett Learning.