Experts reveal the simple ways you can teach yourself charisma to help you get ahead of work- even if you're shy
Not every employee exudes charisma in the workplace but it is a skill that can be taught, claims a Pulitzer prize-winning reporter.
Charles Duhigg says charisma- commonly known as 'rizz' among Gen Z - can easily be learned and is essential for workers to move them up in their professional lives.
But even if you don't think you have 'rizz' or you think you're too shy, teaching yourself is very attainable, according to Duhigg.
Duhigg talks about the process in his new book, 'Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection,' where he reveals that charisma isn't about performing, but rather about the devotion we elicit in others.
For instance, in the movie The Devil Wears Prada, aspiring journalist Andy Sachs sticks by her new boss, Miranda Priestly. Although Sachs isn't necessarily treated right, she knows it will pay off if she sticks by Priestly, learns more about her, and gradually moves up in her career.
In the iconic movie The Devil Wears Prada, Andy Sachs sticks by her new wicked boss Miranda Priestly. She eventually learns more about her, and gradually moves up in her career
Even if you don't think you have 'rizz' or you think you're too shy, teaching yourself is very attainable, according to Pulitzer prize-winning reporter and author Charles Duhigg (pictured)
Duhigg stressed that it isn't complex to exhibit charisma in the workplace, and that it can be as simple as showing interest in conversations that your co-workers bring up.
Even though you might not be interested in the topic, by paying attention and being a part of the conversation, charisma becomes contagious, Duhigg said.
By letting colleges chat about their child's new accomplishment, no matter how big or small, you can make them feel heard and accepted.
Many get hired for a job based on their skill set and experience, but by taking the simple step to communicate successfully and earn other's trust, you can show 'leadership,' he added.
For example, Dave MacLennan, who served as chief executive of agricultural company Cargill, told The Wall Street Journal how a simple step at work helped him become more approachable.
When MacLennan first started in his position, he embraced a nickname for himself- DMac- which was coined during a meeting where half of the other executives shared the same first name as him.
Duhigg stressed that it isn't complex to exhibit charisma in the workplace, and that it can be as simple as showing interest in conversations that your co-workers bring up. (pictured: Stock image)
He truly liked the informality of the nickname and said that it worked well with his employees and co-workers.
'One of the reasons they’re going to follow you is that they feel they know you,' he explained.
MacLennan also focused on the fact that people will be more drawn to you if you remember important details they told you about, like a birthday or anniversary.
Although he said: 'So many people say, "Oh, I don’t have a good memory for that",' making it a priority to go the extra mile and remember the little things can go a long way.
After being promoted to a board member and executive coach, MacLennan has made it his mission to get personal with the people he works with through handwritten letters.
'Your handwriting is a very personal thing about you. Think about it. Twenty seconds. It makes such an impact,' he said.
Another charisma expert, Henna Pryor, explained that confidence plays a huge role in the act. Instead of stressing about being so perfect all the time, Pryor said its important to show your flaws, all while remaining confident. (pictured: stock image)
Another 'charisma expert', Henna Pryor, explained that confidence plays a huge role in the act.
Instead of stressing about being so perfect all the time, Pryor said its important to show your flaws, all while remaining confident.
'It creates this little moment of warmth that we actually find almost like a relief,' she said.
Vanessa Van Edwards, an author of a book on charismatic communication, and communications trainer, said that there isn't just one type of charisma that you have to strive for- you can make your own brand.
Van Edwards recommended that for the more introverted individuals, the action can be shown through a simple nod or eye contact that lets others know you're listening.
Ice breakers, commonly used on first dates or in awkward moments, are also good tools to use when trying to bump up charisma in the workplace, she added.
