Perception, inner clarity, values, and attitudes determine how we interpret ourselves, others, and the world.
The charisma concept according to Martina Gleissenebner-Teskey
Charisma arises from relationship.
Recognize what is one's own. Embodiment. Bring into relationship. Let it become effective.A holistic model for personal presence, genuine connection, and responsible impact – developed for individuals, teams, and organizations that want to be not just more visible, but more meaningfully effective.
Mind
Source & Orientation
Body
Body
Area of Operation
Encounter & Resonance
Synchronization
Synchronization
The Model
Three levels. One dynamic system.
Charisma is not a trait that a person simply possesses. It arises from the interaction between a person, their counterpart, and the situation at hand.
In this process, three levels interact continuously: our mind, with its perceptions, expectations, and beliefs; our body, which both expresses and influences our inner state; and the sphere of interaction in which people perceive, touch, and influence one another.
A charismatic effect arises when these levels come together—and when this connection gives rise to coherent, responsible action.
Breathing, posture, voice, and movement convey our inner state to the outside world—and in turn influence it.
Relationship, context, and synchronization create connection. In a genuine encounter, something new can emerge.
Charisma or self-promotion?
A powerful image can make a strong impression.
Genuine presence builds relationships.
Self-presentation and charisma are not mutually exclusive. However, they follow different logics.
Deliberately Composing the Image
The way we present ourselves shapes the image others have of us. This can be done professionally, consciously, and in a thoroughly authentic way. As a model, I understand and make use of this process.
It determines what becomes visible. However, a compelling image alone is not enough to create a connection.
Making a Difference in Relationships
Charisma extends beyond the image. It emerges in the encounter – where people not only represent something, but perceive, respond, and take responsibility.
What matters is not only whether we make an impact, but also what goals that impact serves and what we bring to the world with our unique gifts.
Can you learn charisma?
Yes. Not as a role—but as a process of development.
We can develop skills that enable us to come across as charismatic. However, the impression we actually make is always shaped by the other person as well and can never be fully controlled.
The foundation is self-acceptance: Your value as a person is already established. Personal development is not about correcting a flaw. It is a conscious decision to realize more of your own potential.
Recognize your own thought patterns and be more attentive to people and situations.
Recognize values, strengths, and your own contribution, and align your actions accordingly.
Use breathing, posture, movement, and expression consciously and in harmony.
Listening, being responsive to others, and being open to different perspectives.
Make decisions, assume responsibility, and translate insights into action.
Experimental research shows that the perception of charisma can be altered through training in specific verbal and nonverbal behaviors. The study examined communication interventions—not the entire concept of charisma presented here. Source: Antonakis, Fenley & Liechti, 2011.
Visibility brings us into focus. Presence enables connection.
Presence Rather Than Mere Visibility
Being noticed is just the beginning.
Personal presence means being present in a situation with attention, body, and inner involvement. We can be visible to thousands of people and mentally be somewhere else entirely. Conversely, a person can develop a strong presence in a quiet conversation—because they listen closely and respond to what is happening right now.
Presence therefore begins before speaking: Do I feel my body? Am I connected to what I want to say? Do I perceive the person opposite me – or am I primarily preoccupied with the impression I am making?
This quality is evident on a stage, in a meeting, and equally in a digital conversation. It requires neither volume nor an extroverted personality.
Charisma in the Age of AI
When everything can appear convincing, responsibility becomes visible.
Trust requires demonstrable competence, sincerity, and the experience that words and actions align.
When AI can generate convincing texts, images, and voices, a simple question gains importance: Who stands behind this statement?
AI can help us organize our thoughts and express them clearly. Checking what we say and taking responsibility for the consequences remain with us.
Whoever publishes or promises something remains accessible, takes responsibility for the consequences, and corrects mistakes.
Experience, sources, and concrete examples show what a claim is based on.
The use of AI is disclosed where it influences the assessment of origin or authenticity.
Trust grows through kept promises and respectful treatment – especially in difficult times.
The concept in practice
From understanding to embodiment.
Charisma does not develop through knowledge alone. It takes experience, feedback, and conscious transfer into one's daily life.
Training & Coaching
For individuals and teams who want to practically develop presence, communication, and responsible impact.
Discover offerKeynote
„Presence, Trust & Personal Impact in the Age of AI“ combines human presence with the challenges of AI-driven communication.
Watch KeynoteThe new book
A scientifically grounded yet personal 9-week program for identity, presence, and human impact.
Discover the book
2026 edition
The charisma concept as a 9-week journey.
What remains of us when artificial intelligence can do many things faster, better, and more convincingly than we can?
„CHARISMA – Shape your life. Change the world.“ guides through perception and expectation, body and presence, voice and movement, encounter and connection. It invites you to recognize your own power and bring it consciously into the world.
9-week program
300 pages
Softcover · Hardcover · E-Book
Dive deeper
The video archive for the concept.
The recordings were made before 2022. The world and my work have evolved since then; the fundamental principles of the charisma concept remain relevant.
Open videos and previous specializations
Analyses of political personalities serve exclusively for the professional examination of communication and impact. They do not represent a statement about my own political stance. Further earlier materials remain in the Charisma Academy accessible.
Origin & Principles
An English-language introduction to the origin and basic principles of the concept.
Watch video on YouTube →five-finger model
Impulses and applications for charismatic leadership.
Watch the playlist on YouTube →Charisma-Mix
Analyses, concepts, and practical guides from the archive.
Watch the playlist on YouTube →Presence · Connection · Impact
What impact should be brought into the world through you?
The charisma concept creates a framework in which people not only recognize their special power, but also embody it responsibly and make it effective in relationships.