'Emotional' Leaders Are More Appealing

While angry leaders are perceived by others to wield more power, followers warm more easily to those showing vulnerable emotions such as sadness. Leaders often believe they should show anger to make subordinates more compliant, thinking they will then be seen as more effective at work or within their organization. They also feel it is bad if they show emotions such as sadness. Researchers conducted three sets of experiments. In the first two groups of students or working adults assessed videos depicting angry and sad leaders. In the third, an online survey showing relevant photographs was used. Followers seem to think that leaders displaying anger more strongly stress their legitimate position within the hierarchy of an organization and the control over punishment and reward that’s available to them. When it comes to personal power, however, leaders displaying sadness seem to appeal to followers more strongly.