If you have received the feedback that “You need to work on your executive presence,” you are not alone. Many professionals trying to move up the ladder find that while the technical aspect is great, they are still missing the executive presence piece. What they don’t hear much is about how to improve it. The problem is that others can perceive if you do not have executive presence, but it is hard to describe why, making it the holy grail of today’s workplace.
What is executive presence?
Executive presence seems to be the #1 scapegoat for many feedback sessions explaining why you don’t get what you want. Author Sylvia Ann Hewitt describes it as “the missing link between merit and success”. But what is it really about? Executive presence is your ability to inspire confidence in others to believe in and follow you.
How to improve your executive presence
As challenging as it seems, executive presence can be improved. When you are being told to improve your executive presence, the main areas to work on are confidence, communication, gravitas and presence.
1) Exude self-confidence
Self-confidence is the bedrock of executive presence. Leaders must believe in themselves before others can believe in them. It’s about knowing your strengths, acknowledging your weaknesses, and having the courage to tackle challenges head-on. To boost your self-confidence, set achievable goals, seek constructive feedback but don’t take it personally, and continuously invest in self-care and self-compassion. Remember, confidence isn’t built overnight; it’s a journey of self-discovery and growth.
2) Communicate concisely and assertively
Researchers recommend being clear and concise. Tailor your message to your audience, whether it’s a board of directors, team members, or clients. The key is projecting a confident and action-oriented message, stating your recommendation first, then adding analysis and detail as needed. Your ideas and opinions are valuable and deserve to be heard. By recognizing your value, you can approach assertiveness from a place of confidence and self-assurance.
3) Develop Gravitas
Having gravitas means leading and influencing through one’s presence and demeanor, commanding respect and admiration from others. People who possess gravitas remain calm and composed under pressure, exuding a sense of authority and making a lasting impression in all interactions. Practicing active listening, engaging in strategic thinking, and improving decision-making skills is essential to develop gravitas. Leaders who embody gravitas have a significant impact on their teams and organizations.
4) Stay Present
Last but not least, stay mentally present. While you may need to deal with many challenges simultaneously, being entirely focused on one problem at a time is essential when meeting or interacting with others. Avoid multitasking or mind-wandering. To fully engage in conversations, build connections, listen, and ask open-ended questions. Non-verbal cues often speak louder than words. When communicating, pay attention to your body language, eye contact, posture, and gestures. Maintaining firm eye contact, adopting a confident stance, and using purposeful gestures can convey authority and confidence.
In conclusion, executive presence is not a static quality but a dynamic skill that can be cultivated and refined over time. By focusing on self-confidence, gravitas, communication, and presence, you can enhance your ability to inspire, influence, and lead effectively. Mastering these four pillars can open doors to new opportunities and elevate your career to new heights. Embrace these qualities, and watch your executive presence become a powerful force in your professional life.
