You Can Develop Executive Presence—at Any Level
The operative word in executive presence is presence, not executive. Although it’s something executives should have if they want to be successful, it’s something that people at all levels can benefit from acquiring, both to be effective in their current positions and to advance.
Two of the qualities at the heart of executive presence are gravitas and communication. People who display gravitas have a serious and dignified demeanor. They convey confidence, inspire trust, and display poise under pressure. Their communication style is one that compels people to listen. But they’re not just skilled talkers; they listen attentively and take in what’s going on around them. And, of course, they have superior presentation skills.
Suzanne Bates, author of Speak Like a CEO, describes executive presence as a "wow" factor that entails distinct dimensions such as style and substance. Style concerns your image, mannerisms, and interpersonal behavior—the things that create the first impression people form about you. Substance conveys a sense of maturity that leads others to see you as wise, confident, composed, and attuned to the needs and concerns of stakeholders.
It may be that some people are born with executive presence. Others may be able to acquire it effortlessly. But most people have to work at it. For example, to exhibit executive presence at a meeting, spend time in advance preparing responses to likely questions so you can answer confidently. Mind your body language so you look like you’re in control rather than cowering in your seat. Speak clearly and firmly. Listen to others without interrupting, and ask good questions to show you’re paying attention.
Other steps for exhibiting executive presence: Articulate your beliefs even if others won’t agree. Give credit to others where it’s due, but don’t hesitate to take credit where you deserve it; promoting yourself is important if you want to be noticed. In communicating with others, state your main point up front; don’t make people wade (and wait) through a plethora of details.
In communicating, whether in a formal presentation or an informal discussion, it’s especially important not to use ambiguous language. You weaken your points if you repeatedly use the words try, maybe, might, perhaps, or in my opinion. Also be careful of the use of just, as in “I just want to say” or “I just have a few things to mention,” as if you’re apologizing. This one word can sabotage your points by making you sound unsure of yourself.
Keeping these ideas in mind will help you look and act like a leader—and that will serve you well whether or not you aspire to the executive suite. Exhibiting presence is a worthy goal at all levels.
