Carly was described as charismatic. Cambridge Dictionary (2011) describes charisma as "a special power which some people have naturally which makes them able to influence other people and attract their attention and admiration". Weber (as cited in Robins et al. 2008) describes chiasmatic leadership as one of the best models of authority and influence. Robert House (as cited in Robins et al.) details the 'charismatic leadership theory' as leaders with vision and who are willing to take personal risks to accomplish their vision, they are responsive to subrogates requirements and to environmental demands, and they demonstrate behaviours that are out to the ordinary. Unfortunately, some charismatic leaders can become carried away and a 'dark side' is revealed. In these cases the best interests of the organisation are not fully represented (Robbins et al.). The margin separating personal interests and those of the organisation can become blurred. Robins et al., describes the worst case scenario being when 'ego-driven' charismatic leader put their own interests ahead of the organisation, or when they use the organisational resources for their own personal benefit or gain (Robbins et al.). It is clear that Carly became impressed with herself and her importance, placing her portrait next to those of the HP founders and failing to heed the warning issued by HB board members to change her style (Robbins et al.).
Prior to joining HP, Carly undertook a 900 question personality test. Personality testing is used to predict performance in the workplace (Hoffman 2000). It was recognised that Carly had charismatic qualities including the vigour, enthusiasm, forward thinking vision, drive and aggressiveness, all considered necessary for the position of CEO (Robbins et al. 2008). One universally applied personality measurement is the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), which consists