So far in my studies, and correct me if I'm wrong, I must do the following to be an effective cult leader:

   a.)  I must present myself as Divine (at a minimum the closest person to God on earth).  Dress a little different.  Be distant and mysterious--avoid face to face interactions with the rank and file followers.  After all, all cult leaders live two lives. 

    b.)  get a select group of trusted followers around me to use coercion, clap hands for me & lead others to do the same-- always keep control of meetings and never allow any real debates, after all, I must present as God and can't be challenged.

   c.) Using hypnotic suggestion to the extreme of mind control, get followers to progress to different levels.  New members should not learn the actual teachings, but ideas that sound safe and sweet.  With time, they will be manipulated (after they see me as their Lord of the Universe) into believing anything I say-- no matter how odd or weird (i.e. they must give me all, or most of their salaries, etc.).

   d.) whatever the brand of cult, everyone else is confused.  Only I have the answers, and my cult group.  I must also act humble & meek despite the arrogance of my claims.  Instead of saying I'm God, I'll get my trusted followers to imply, or promote this idea to make me seem humble.

Just some starters, a rough draft.  How am I doing?

Maharaji II aka. Jai Guru Deva Swami