The effect of leader outcomes on influence, attributions, and perceptions of charisma

This study addressed how various outcomes to a leader might influence not o nly how that leader is perceived but also the degree of influence that lead er might subsequently obtain. On the basis of recent charismatic leadership theories, it was expected that leaders who appeared willing to endure hard ship for the expression of their beliefs would be perceived differently tha n leaders who appeared to benefit in some way. The relationship between out comes and subsequent leader influence was confirmed. Sacrificing resulted i n greater influence, whereas benefiting reduced it. This relationship was m ediated by attributions made about leader motives. The relationship between outcomes and influence was also mediated by perceptions of charisma.