A Visible Executive Presence that Affirms Strength

A Strong Executive Presence Inspires Others

Knowing how your executive presence influences others is a sign of a wise leader. The physical presence in a room can hurt or hinder a group’s morale and productivity. The goal of effective leadership is to have frontrunners who know and understand how to use their existence to bring out the best in others. How a person uses their body language, voice and non-verbal cues to lead others is a craft. Learning how to use your personality and specific characteristics is a sign you have invested in your own executive presence and desire to help, not intimidate, others to work efficiently and productively. Here are some traits that contribute to a leader’s presence: 1. Interpersonal skills – Can you connect with people? Do you demonstrate you care about others and not just yourself? People are more inclined to hear what you have to say if they know you care about who they are. Pay attention to what you are saying to others and about others. This will help you gauge your message and how people respond to what you say. 2. Confidence – When you are in a group setting, are you apologizing often, fidgeting or avoiding eye contact with others? These signals tell others that you lack confidence. You are undermining your own authority. Instead, look people in the eye, speak in a manner that clearly communicates what you mean and dress the part of a leader. A strong executive presence is achieved through presentation in verbal and non-verbal techniques. 3. Communication – Are you consciously aware that there are two aspects of communication? One is listening and the other is speaking. Strong listeners demonstrate that they care about what others have to say. When you give people your undivided attention, repeat what they say to you back to them and address their conce s, you send a strong message that you are present in the moment. 4. Body Language – Smiling, a strong walk and awareness of hand movements are important too. Does your body demonstrate executive presence or something else? Pointing during conversations is offensive. When you don’t smile, people often think you are angry or unapproachable. Awareness of your facial expressions and other body signs is one way to increase your value in the workplace. Taking the time to know how others view your executive presence demonstrates your willingness to learn and lead. Leaders take the time to work on self-awareness and implement insights in the boardroom and beyond. Attending a professional development workshop that targets this message will help you learn more about executive presence and how it impacts your leadership.