Executive Presence: 7 Steps to Develop Your Executive Presence

by National Media Museum

Executive Presence: 7 Steps to Develop Your Executive Presence

Executive Presence. Almost everyone recognizes executive presence when they see it.  Some might even say it is the most sought after quality in business today.

When a person with executive presence walks into a meeting room, Blackberries shut down, laptops close and tweets cease.  Why?  Because executive presence gives its owner instant respect and power.

So a logical question is: are we born with this power or can it be developed?  

The answer is both.  Some individuals just have an innate grace and presence. Colin Powell is a perfect example. But for the rest of us, there are steps we can take to advance and develop our own style and image.

Here are seven tactics you can take to advance your own executive presence.

Step 1.  Make a Commitment.  Recognize that developing your executive presence is  a long-term commitment and a process.  It won’t happen overnight. Methodically commit everyday to one action to advance your goal.

Step 2.  Invest in a Makeover. True executive presence is a total package: how you speak and act AND how you look.  First impressions count. So invest in an image consultant to help package you: hair, glasses, clothes, make-up—the whole works.  Many high-end department stores like Nordstroms have personal shoppers who can outfit you. Well worth the time and effort.

Step 3.  Speak with a Purpose.  Individuals with presence don’t waste our time with verbal rambling or idle chatter.  When you communicate, have a clear goal in mind, stay on message and be as targeted and concise as you can.

Step 4.  Structure Your Communication.  Leaders with executive presence communicate in a logical and structured way. They might use numbers to guide us: “Let’s look at four reasons why we are achieving our goals.” Or clearly break their verbal communication into units: “Our first quarter had a rough open, then a gradual increase, Let’s examine why.” Package your ideas in a way all audiences can follow.

Step 5.  Choose Words Carefully.  A key component of executive presence is not only structure but also memorable communication (think Ronald Reagan, The Great Communicator). For meetings or conversations, prepackage some ideas, especially for the beginning or end of your communication—something that will make listeners stand up and take note. If people associate you with memorable words, you are increasing their awareness of you as a strategic communicator.

Step 6.  Treat Everyone with Respect.  When you meet someone with executive presence, they look you in the eye, shake your hand, and speak to you as if you were the most important person in the room. Offer up respect to everyone you come in contact with.

Step 7.  Act with Passion and Conviction. Individuals with presence exude passion, commitment and conviction. Engage in activities that you are truly committed to.  Get involved with projects that really turn your passion on, and let your colleagues hear and see your conviction.  Inspire them.

Now THAT is an unforgettable presence.