by Kathy O'Brien | Apr 9, 2026 | Executive Communication, Virtual Executive Presence
You’ve done it all virtually by now: presented, persuaded, hired and possibly fired, cajoled, learned, inspired and complained. The one thing you’ve likely found most difficult is engaging. Virtual has a host of engagement saboteurs: lagging, background noise,...
by Kathy O'Brien | Apr 9, 2026 | Executive Communication, Vocal Skills
Vocal quality is a tremendous asset for a leader. When you project a strong voice, you sound competent, confident and compelling. You also sound like you have conviction in your statements. Since these are great qualities in a leader, it’s worth your while to pause...
by Kathy O'Brien | Apr 9, 2026 | Executive Body Language, Executive Communication, Executive Presence, Presentation Skills
We all know body language is a powerful tool for communicating. When you stand and present, you have many elements at your disposal – your posture, movement, gestures. But what about when you’re seated? People often ask how they can use deliberate body language while...
by Kathy O'Brien | Apr 9, 2026 | Executive Body Language, Executive Communication
If you struggle to use eye contact effectively, you’re in good company. Some people feel direct eye contact is aggressive. You may have cultural associations that suggest one is not allowed to meet the eyes of a different gender or a more senior leader. Maybe you...
by Kathy O'Brien | Apr 9, 2026 | Executive Communication
We’ve all known that feeling when a new meeting goes smoothly, and you can comfortably say ‘We really connected’. But it doesn’t happen all the time. When the stakes are high and you want to build that easy rapport with another, what can you do?...
by Kathy O'Brien | Apr 9, 2026 | Media Engagement
You’ve secured a media interview for your CEO. She needs to prepare, and with her always-busy schedule, has no time. In a perfect world, she’d prepare thoroughly with a coach. In this imperfect world, you step in. What are the absolute minimum steps you must take to...
by Kathy O'Brien | Apr 9, 2026 | Executive Communication, Presentation Skills
Your PowerPoint deck is ready, and you are presenting soon. Very soon. But you’re completely swamped with work and haven’t had time to prepare an entire script for your presentation. Sound familiar? For sure you should set aside time to fully prepare your...
by Kathy O'Brien | Apr 9, 2026 | Executive Presence, Virtual Executive Presence
It can be challenging to exude executive presence in a virtual world. Here are some ways to seem more commanding when you’re on a computer screen. Sit as far back in the seat as possible. Keep a straight and strong back and rest your arms on the chair’s arms. Keep...
by Kathy O'Brien | Apr 9, 2026 | Media Engagement, Media Training
Advertising, check. PR, check. Social, check. Trade show, sponsorship, promotions, check, check, check. Your marketing plan – done. Except that you are missing a crucial element that is right under your nose. You know it better than any of these...
by Kathy O'Brien | Mar 27, 2026 | Executive Communication, Moderator, Uncategorized
A well-moderated panel discussion showcases leadership, demonstrates credibility, and provokes fresh thinking. If you are invited to be a moderator, embrace the opportunity. You will showcase your best qualities by creating the conditions for others to shine. When you...
