Why some leaders command the room - and others don’t.

At some point in our careers, some of us may have been advised to "develop your executive presence,". If that was the case, one might have wondered:

  • What is it, really?

  • How do I know when I have it?

  • And if I don’t have it, how do I get it?

If you’re:

  • Struggling to command attention in meetings

  • Finding your ideas dismissed or not taken seriously

  • Wanting to inspire more confidence in your team

  • Often being overlooked for more senior roles

…executive presence might be a missing link.

What is Executive Presence?

For many, it’s a term shrouded in ambiguity. Most people define it as a blend of confidence, decisiveness, polish, and an authentic persona.

  • It’s when you walk into a room and the energy shifts.

  • It’s the feeling of calm assurance when navigating complex decisions.

  • It’s the ability to instill confidence not just with words, but with conviction.

Four Considerations to Build It:

  1. Calm - Mastering the pause to let key points land, It shows you’re in control and comfortable with space.

  2. Clear - Grounded responses when asked tough questions. Respond calmly, clearly, signaling confidence and trust.

  3. Control - Flexibility in your tone, pace, style and messaging, tailored to your audience shows emotional intelligence and command of the room.

  4. Concise - Say it Once, Say it Well. Saving your audience time buy providing only the information they need or want to hear in that moment.

Does Executive Presence Matter?

  • A study by the Center for Talent Innovation found that executive presence accounts for 26% of what it takes to get promoted.

  • Research from Harvard Business Review highlights that executive presence isn’t just about perception. Leaders who project confidence and decisiveness influence better team performance and organizational trust.

Executive Presence: Is It Still a Thing?

I get it—some say executive presence is just another buzzword or a dated reference. Whether you call it presence, influence, the ‘X’ factor or leadership gravitas, the reality is that those who project confidence, safety, trust, coherence, conviction and authenticity consistently rise through the ranks.

What Communications Coaching Can Do?

An effective communication coach doesn’t just point out what’s missing—they provide you with tailored tools, techniques, knowledge and mindset to embody confidence authentically.

Are You Looking To Elevate Your Presence?

Please reach out to me when you’re looking to elevate your presence by clicking on my meeting link below or please feel free to forward this on to someone who might be right now!

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