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Consider the most impactful leaders you have met. What about them made you trust and follow their example? Perhaps they possessed a subtle but unmistakable “presence”, a magnetic aura that commanded respect and instilled trust.
This intangible quality, often called “executive presence,” is a powerful force in leadership. This article delves into the essence of executive presence, its significance in today’s competitive landscape, and actionable steps to cultivate it. Join me as we explore the vital components that distinguish ordinary leaders from those who inspire, influence, and leave a lasting impression.
What is executive presence?
Executive presence is the projection of authority and credibility, and your distinctive presence defines your personal and professional brand. It encompasses the unique blend of demeanor, communication style, and demeanor that sets you apart as a leader.
Individuals with executive presence maintain a detectable, but indefinable, attitude toward themselves. While others may not be able to understand why they want to follow these leaders, they will be more likely to trust them.
David Roberts, CEO of Verra Mobility, recently defined executive presence as “the total and combined way an executive “shows up” for the job of leadership. It is that unique combination of skills, style, actions and reactions in service of the ‘goal to move your people forward and achieve organizational results.”
The strength of your executive presence can also be measured by how others perceive and respond to you in professional settings. It influences how you are perceived by colleagues, stakeholders and industry peers, ultimately shaping your career trajectory and the impact of your leadership.
How to develop executive presence
Executive presence is not a skill you are necessarily born with. Fortunately, this means that anyone can develop this skill!
It is crucial to remember that developing executive presence is both an internal and external game. If you are a mediocre leader internally, you will be a mediocre leader externally. Executive presence involves cultivating a leader’s skills and projecting them strategically and consistently.
Related: How to Develop Executive Presence and Earn Respect
Develop inner executive presence
Before we discuss the external characteristics of executive presence, we must address the “inner game” of executive presence.
This inner game of executive presence refers to self-awareness, or a deep understanding of one’s values, emotions, and behaviors. This self-awareness forms the foundation of emotional intelligence, enabling active listening, emotional agility, and controlled emotional reactivity. It is this internal alignment that radiates confidence, calm and poise in professional interactions.
Recognizing that internal character inconsistencies can inadvertently emerge in external nonverbal communication, decisions, and actions is crucial. The stories of Adam Neumann of WeWork, Trevor Milton of Nikola, Elizabeth Holmes of Theranos, and Rajat Gupta of McKinsey & Company serve as cautionary examples. Although they initially demonstrated high executive presence, their lack of ethics and integrity ultimately eroded their credibility.
The great news is that we can always improve our inner self and therefore benefit others through our external presence and actions. For example, if you identify difficulties managing stress, seeking coaching or therapy can foster healthier internal coping mechanisms that will be positively reflected in your external behavior and decision-making.
Related: How to develop self-awareness and become a more effective leader
Now that we have explored the fundamental aspects of building an internal executive presence, let’s shift our focus to developing the following external attributes that will amplify the impact of leadership and project a compelling executive presence.
1. Positive body language
Effective communication begins with active listening and thoughtful responses. Letting others speak first, actively listening and then speaking clearly and concisely demonstrates respect and authority. Thoughtful gestures such as nodding affirmatively and maintaining an open body posture convey commitment and confidence.
Related: 4 body language mistakes you didn’t realize you were making at work and how to fix them
2. Appearance
The significance of appearance in leadership dates back to ancient civilizations, where clothing signified status and authority. Research consistently shows that a well-groomed appearance commands respect and creates positive impressions. Pay attention to appearance, dress and personal presentation to align with professional standards and enhance your executive presence.
Related: Five Tips for Optimizing Your Appearance for Business Success
3. Trust
Confidence is a learnable characteristic that emanates from within and is reflected in external behavior. It’s not just about physical posture: true safety is about controlling the environment and projecting safety through gestures, tone of voice and spatial presence. Walk purposefully, maintain eye contact, and use deliberate gestures to convey confidence and credibility.
4. Intonation and cadence
The tone and cadence of your voice conveys confidence and attracts attention. Speak clearly, emphasizing key points with controlled intonation. Practice modulating your voice to convey authority and conviction while maintaining a calm and composed demeanor.
5. Trust through consistency
Consistency is essential to building trust and credibility. Make sure your actions and behaviors align with your core values and leadership principles. Consistent leadership fosters trust among colleagues and stakeholders, improving executives’ presence and influence.
Remember, executive presence is not simply a set of skills – it is a holistic approach to leadership that integrates authenticity, trust and professionalism into all aspects of your career path. By honing these external attributes and cultivating your internal self-awareness and integrity, you can cultivate a compelling executive presence that inspires confidence, drives results, and leaves a lasting impact on those around you.