People often think executive presence is something that a few people are born with. Our work with thousands of leaders, however, proves that executive presence is a collection of skills that can be acquired.
Executive presence shows up in small, observable behaviours: how a leader enters a room, stands to present, handles a tough question and even sits at the board table. And the good news is you can learn to embody these new habits.
If you’re an executive looking to strengthen your presence, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Arrive with intention. The first moments of any meeting or presentation shape how everything that follows is received. Before you walk in, take a moment to decide what you want people to feel and understand. Settle your posture, slow your pace and hold your chin level so you can make eye contact as you enter the room.
Listen so people feel heard. Executives who listen to understand, rather than to reply, command a different kind of respect. Give the speaker your full attention, acknowledge what you’re hearing and ask a follow-up question before offering your view. When people feel heard, they’re far more open to your direction, even when the message is a difficult one.
Pause before you respond. Under pressure, some people rush to fill the silence. Strong executive presence is demonstrated by embracing the pause. A brief pause to collect your thoughts and structure your answer signals composure and thoughtfulness. It also tends to improve the answer itself. Those who can confidently hold a room in silence for the length of a pause exude composure.
Maintain open body language. Open body language signals to your audience that you feel comfortable, you can hold your space with confidence and you are open to hearing their views. Whether leaders are sitting or standing, this type of posture underscores their willingness to engage.
When leaders consistently adopt these behaviours, others notice. Executive presence is ultimately about how you are perceived, and these behaviours shape that perception in every room you enter.
The best part is that executive presence can be a learned skill. It’s a set of practical habits that can be practiced and refined with the right support.