The topic of charismatic leadership has been challenged from two major standpoints: the validity of the concept and the misdeeds of charismatic leaders. According to the concept of leadership polarity, leaders are often either revered or vastly unpopular. Many leaders in public office experience the same problem. Charisma needs to be mixed with humility for full effectiveness.

Another problem with the concept of charisma is that it may not be necessary for leadership effectiveness. Some people believe that charismatic leadership can be exercised for evil purposes. This argument was introduced previously in relation to personalized charismatic leaders. When charismatic leaders are highly narcissistic, organizational performance may suffer. One reason is that the highly narcissistic leader will be disliked and resented.

Some charismatic leaders are unethical and lead their organizations and outsiders toward illegal and immoral ends. People are willing to follow the charismatic leader down a quasilegal path because of his or her personal magnetism. A broad perspective on the downside of both charismatic and transformational leadership is that emphasizing these behaviors directs attention away from other important aspects of leader-follower relationships. Recognize that a true charismatic and trans-formational leader is highly concerned about human welfare and attaining outstanding organizational performance.