Inserting YOU into executive presence
There's a lot of talk out there on this topic. Some say it's about inspiring confidence. Some say it's about leadership competence and trustworthiness. Some even break it down into categories like gravitas, communication, and appearance. While there's wisdom in all of these explanations, there's also a missing link between all the general advice and the unique gifts and talents you bring to the table.
Yes, there is an element of understanding how it can be embodied and referencing those you admire who have it. But how do you quantify that "it" factor without accidentally becoming a clone of the aggregate traits exhibited by your corporate heroes? Before diving straight into the tactical steps of skill development, how might you lean into your strengths and really let your personality shine?
To me, executive presence starts with being authentic. Do you know who you are, what you're about, why you matter, and why others should care? Is how you conduct yourself consistent with who you are? First things first. If you're not deeply grounded in your truth, then how deeply do you expect others to believe in you or what you have to say?
Next, let's take the phrase apart and look at the words individually before putting it all back together:
Executive = a leader who executes plans and actions by making decisions on behalf of a company or organization
Presence = the ability to make one's character known to others
What that tells me is that executive presence hinges on demonstrating not only your ability to get things done well (and doing it with the emotional intelligence that persuades if not convinces even those who disagree to contribute), but also on your ability to share who you are with others in a way that they can understand.
Examining executive presence can, in some ways, be like looking through a kaleidoscope. Every time you pick it up, there's a different way of looking at the big picture. But when you take a step back, you realize that the component pieces stay the same no matter how different the resulting images may appear. The same is true with understanding executive presence. Sure, knock yourself out in your perusal of the kaleidoscope of advice out there, but realize that at the end of the day, it's about knowing yourself and bringing out your best self.
Agree? Disagree? Hit the “contact” button above and let me know what you think!