What Is Executive Presence Anyway?

Recently I’ve had a few clients talk to me about Executive Presence.  One of them wanted to know what it actually meant.  Another indicated she thought she needed to improve hers.  And a third person stated that she was told she wouldn’t be considered for a more senior role until she developed some.

 There are lots of articles written about Executive Presence.  Here’s my take, for what it’s worth:

 Think of Executive Presence as embodying a sense of dignity, confidence, decisiveness and capability of leading others.  Someone who demonstrates connection, credibility and charisma. 

 Some folks come by it naturally.  For the rest of us, it’s something we can work to develop.

 Think Body Language, Tone of Voice and Vocabulary…  those are three key areas that contribute to how we make an impression on someone.  How we hold ourselves… the manner in which we communicate verbally and the content of what we say.

 And all three work together.  Simultaneously.  Symbiotically. 

 You can be a subject matter expert and the smartest person in the room, but if you come across as cocky or awkward or inappropriate, your executive presence quotient will be impacted.

 So, if you are aiming to enhance your own executive presence, or you know someone else who is, keep this in mind;  everyone can develop a stronger executive presence. It starts with having the desire, heightening your own personal awareness and stretching your skills just a bit.  One step at a time.