Let me ask you if you ever want to lead a big team to achieve a difficult target? Do you want to lead high-visibility projects that make a difference? Want to be in important rooms when relevant decisions are taken? Want to be the leader that inspires others? There you have it, you need to have executive presence to achieve these goals. I also use the word “Gravitas” (it means weight in Greek origins) to mean that sort of solid effect, grounded presence and power, without arrogance.
As a coach ad leadership trainer, I’ve come to realize that a leader with a solid executive presence and grounded confidence with substance is what people’s minds and hearts are looking for to follow, to get inspired and grow. Especially in tough rapidly changing times. Do you, have it? Have you ever been told you do or need to develop it? Stay with me, I’ve got you.
Executive presence is a key factor in professional success. It refers to the way that you present yourself and communicate with others, and it can impact your ability to influence, persuade, and lead. One aspect of executive presence is gravitas, which is often described as a sense of depth, authority, and confidence.
So, how can you show a solid executive presence in meetings? Here are seven tips:
- Prepare thoroughly: Before a meeting, make sure that you have a clear understanding of the agenda, the purpose of the meeting, and your role in it. This will help you to be more confident and focused during the meeting.
- Communicate clearly: Use clear, concise language when speaking and listening. Avoid jargon and unnecessary technicalities, and make sure that you are easily understood.
- Pay attention to your body language: Your nonverbal cues can speak louder than words. Make eye contact, sit up straight, and use open, confident body language to show that you are engaged and engaged in the conversation.
- Be respectful: Show respect for others in the meeting by listening attentively and not interrupting. Avoid dominating the conversation or monopolizing the floor.
- Be decisive: When it’s your turn to speak, make sure that you have a clear point to make and deliver it confidently. Don’t be afraid to make decisions or offer solutions, but be sure to do so in a thoughtful and considered way.
- Don’t crack under pressure: Meetings can sometimes be stressful or high-pressure situations, but it’s important to remain composed and not let your emotions get the best of you. Practice deep breathing or other relaxation techniques to help you stay calm and focused under pressure.
- Don’t be afraid of conflict: Disagreements and differences of opinion are a natural part of any group dynamic, and they can actually be beneficial in driving creativity and innovation. Don’t be afraid to speak up and voice your opinions, but do so in a respectful and constructive way. Remember, the goal is to find a solution or resolution, not to win an argument.
Start today. Small steps. Pick one aspect to work on. Master it, use it and notice it’s power. Then choose another strategy. You can show a solid executive presence in meetings and demonstrate your gravitas as a professional. Remember, executive presence is not something that you are born with – it is something that you can develop and improve over time. With practice and self-awareness, you can project confidence, authority, and depth in any meeting or professional situation. So, always be prepared and confident.
Tags Executive presence, gravitas, confidence, presence, leadership,
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