Ever been at a meeting, someone comes in and they are just different, they hold executive presence — respect, trust and motivation. In today’s business world, having a *great executive presence* is often the difference between being seen as a leader and blending into the background. So how can senior leaders showcase executive presence?
I’ll share with you steps to showcase strong executive presence by going through tips from body language, communication skills and the ability to inspire.
What is Executive Presence?
Executive presence is the blend of confidence, poise, and decisiveness that signals to others that you’re a capable and reliable leader. It’s the quality that makes people pay attention when you speak and trust your judgment in high-stakes situations. While some may believe that executive presence is an innate trait, it is a skill set that can be developed and refined. It’s not about who’s the most extroverted or introverted.
Key Elements of a Great Executive Presence
- Strong Communication Skills
Are you communicating effectively? Senior leaders must convey their ideas clearly and persuasively, whether they’re speaking to a team of colleagues or presenting to the board of directors. It’s not just about what you say but how you say it. Effective leaders use storytelling, active listening, and data to engage their audience and drive their message home.
Tip: Practice active listening, create a dashboard with each person you work with, see what they’re communication style is — does one person like data, the other storytelling? Observe how certain colleagues get along, why? Come from a place of curiosity and understand each person’s motivation.
- Body Language
Body language speaks louder than words. Maintain eye contact; however, if you are neurodivergent feel free to share with team members that you have a hard time maintaining eye contact (you don’t need to disclose you are neurodivergent). Also make sure to have a confident posture.
Tip: Keep your shoulders back and arms relaxed, when speaking use your hand and fingers even if you are in a virtual meeting — hand gestures accentuate your message.
- Inspire & Motivate
Senior leaders with strong executive presence have a natural ability to inspire and motivate their teams. This involves creating a vision and involving your team. Be sure to seek feedback, and be able to explain to your team the bigger picture. This will help your team understand the why and be more motivated when they are included.
Tip: Continue to share your vision, and acknowledge each team member’s contributions to that vision so they continue to be inspired.
- Confidence and Poise Under Pressure
In high-pressure situations, a great executive presence shines through in a leader’s ability to remain calm and composed communication. Senior leaders often face challenging scenarios where they must make quick decisions. Demonstrating confidence, even when the outcome is uncertain, helps to reassure others and instill a sense of stability.
Tip: Take a breath. Remember if someone is feeling stressed out, that’s their energy. It doesn’t have to affect you.
- *Consistency and Authenticity
Finally, a strong executive presence is built on a foundation of authenticity. Senior leaders who are consistent in their actions and true to their values are more likely to earn the trust and respect of their teams. Authentic leaders don’t put on a facade; instead, they share their genuine selves, which helps build deeper, more meaningful connections.
Tip: Reflect your values with your leadership style.
Building Your Executive Presence: A Continuous Journey
Developing executive presence is like a sport, you must practice. Continue to refine your body language, ability to inspire and communicate.
**Ready to boost your executive presence?** Start implementing these tips today, and watch how your ability to lead and inspire transforms both you and your team.
If you would like further support in your career, business, or executive and leadership coaching, my team and I would love to support you in creating a sustainable life through our coaching services! You can schedule a 30-minute legacy business or career review call with me to see if it’s a good fit to work together, and you’ll receive 3 action-items from me.
