Developing Your Executive Presence Jan 29 Written By Lesa Edwards </div> </div></div><div class="sqs-block website-component-block sqs-block-website-component sqs-block-html html-block" data-block-css="["https://definitions.sqspcdn.com/website-component-definition/static-assets/website.components.html/9330f36a-b278-41f5-87d4-cfc393327b28_420/website.components.html.styles.css"]" data-block-scripts="["https://definitions.sqspcdn.com/website-component-definition/static-assets/website.components.html/9330f36a-b278-41f5-87d4-cfc393327b28_420/website.components.html.visitor.js"]" data-block-type="1337" data-definition-name="website.components.html" data-sqsp-block="text" id="block-b595677e91ac64bac192"><div class="sqs-block-content"><div class="sqs-text-block-container"> <div class="sqs-html-content" data-sqsp-text-block-content><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">Executive presence is one of the core competencies needed to get to, and be successful in, the C-suite. I also think it’s a term that gets used a lot, but often without much clarification on what exactly executive presence IS. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">My aim today, then, is to de-mystify and clarify what executive presence consists of, as well as some concrete steps you can take to improve your executive presence – regardless of what your current job title or seniority level is.</p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">To be clear, executive presence isn’t about being the loudest person in the room, but rather the person with the <strong>perceived ability to lead. </strong>We’re going to dig into what qualities support that perceived ability to lead. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Gravitas</strong></p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">A huge part of executive presence is the weight you carry – how do you react when something goes sideways or a project fails? Do you have the decisiveness to make a decision based on just 70% of the information, because the situation calls for immediate action? Are you able to read the vibe in the room, as well as manage your own vibe? </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Example</strong>: Think of a boss you have had that fell apart in a high-stress situation. You likely witnessed nervous energy, sped-up verbal communication, unclear directions, and an inability to answer questions. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">On the other hand, think of a boss you have had that rose to the occasion in a high-stress situation. You no doubt admired their “calm under pressure” demeanor, ability to clearly communicate what each team member needed to do, a very steady vocal cadence, and perhaps even a smile while doing all of this. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Action Step</strong>: The next time you are in a group meeting, pay particular attention to the energy of the other participants, as well as your own. “Read the room,” and make a decision either about what to say or what not to say based on your assessment. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"> </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Communication</strong></p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">It’s not just what you say, but how you package what you say. Be concise – lead with the “headline” rather than a 10-minute backstory. Watch your filler words – um, I mean, actually, right?, so, etc. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">Focus on eye contact and an open posture – arms not crossed, facing the person you are speaking with, and shoulders back. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Example</strong>: Think of someone you have heard speak recently who used excessive vocal pauses. How did you react – were you able to hear what they were saying, or did you find the vocal pauses distracting? </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">Conversely, who have you heard speak recently – either in your company or perhaps on a podcast – who was so clear that you were completely engaged? No vocal pauses in sight. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Action Step: </strong>Record yourself using Zoom or another tech, without a script. Then count your various vocal pauses. This awareness is the first step to correcting them.</p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"> </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Appearance</strong></p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">This isn’t about how much money you spend on your clothes, but rather how polished and professional you appear. While appearance went largely by the wayside during Covid, many people have returned to work. Some of you probably didn’t update your wardrobe at that time. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">This is also not just about what you wear. Women – makeup can be important to your executive presence. If this is not your strength, I recommend a makeup session with a professional – this is money well spent. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">Your digital presence can be affected by the lighting, background, and camera/audio quality in your home office – pay attention to these, as well. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Example</strong>: Who do you admire for how they consistently dress at work? Think about the specifics – what is it about their appearance that impresses you? If you have a chance to see that person again soon – analyze exactly what they are wearing as well as their accessories – how can you adapt their style to your own? </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Action Step</strong>: Consider a wardrobe consultation at a reputable department store or boutique – and this goes for men, as well. As previously mentioned, consider a makeup session. And everyone: Don’t forget things like nose and ear hair, fingernails, and unruly eyebrows. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"> </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">You may be thinking that I’m asking you to be someone you aren’t – I’m not. An effective executive presence should be a magnification of your best self, not a mask or a pretense. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">Executive presence is a muscle, so the more you exercise that muscle the stronger and more innate it becomes. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">I would be remiss if I didn’t tie this topic into the work I do with clients in my six-month coaching program, The Exclusive Career Accelerator. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">The Accelerator operates within a framework of four pillars, each of which is crucial for advancement to the executive ranks. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>The four pillars are:</strong></p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">I: Visibility & Executive Brand (Strategic Narrative)</p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">II: Impact & Strategic Results (Enterprise Acumen) </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">III: Sponsorship & Network (Advocacy & Political Capital)</p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">IV: Executive Skills & Mindset (Leadership & Resilience) </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">To give you a little background, we start with a self-assessment that identifies the most important areas we should work on. With each competency, there is a linguistic flip we work on to transform non-executive speak into executive-level communication.</p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">We cover how to make sure you are in the right room to get noticed, how to contribute thought leadership, how to develop your personal brand, establishing a personal “board of directors,” and much more. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">If this sounds like something you would be interested in learning more about, let’s schedule a complimentary consult to discuss. I’ve included the link in the show notes, or you can reach out to me at <a href="mailto:lesa@theexclusivecareer.com">lesa@theexclusivecareer.com</a> and put “TECA” in the subject line. </p></div> <style>.fe-block-b595677e91ac64bac192 {mix-blend-mode: ; }</style> </div> </div></div></div></div></div></div> <div class="blog-meta-item blog-meta-item--tags" data-content-field="tags"> <span class="blog-item-tag-wrapper"><a href="/tec-podcast/tag/executive+leadership" class="blog-item-tag blog-item-tag--executive-leadership" rel="tag">executive leadership</a></span><span class="blog-item-tag-wrapper"><a href="/tec-podcast/tag/executive+presence" class="blog-item-tag blog-item-tag--executive-presence" rel="tag">executive presence</a></span><span class="blog-item-tag-wrapper"><a href="/tec-podcast/tag/executive+coaching" class="blog-item-tag blog-item-tag--executive-coaching" rel="tag">executive coaching</a></span> </div> <div class="blog-item-author-profile-wrapper" data-content-field="author"> <a href="/tec-podcast?author=617ae7024d577d7cd7e6f36a"> <span class="author-name">Lesa Edwards</span> </a> </div> </div> <section class="blog-item-comments"> <div class="blog-item-comments-toggle-wrapper"> <div id="blogItemCommentsContent" class="blog-item-comments-content" data-content-field="comments"> </div> </div> </section> </div> </article> </div> </div> </div> </section> </article> <section id="itemPagination" class="item-pagination item-pagination--prev-next" data-collection-type="blog-side-by-side" > <a href="/tec-podcast/blog-a-deep-dive-into-1-1s" class="item-pagination-link item-pagination-link--prev"> <div class="item-pagination-icon icon icon--stroke"> <svg class="caret-left-icon--small" viewBox="0 0 9 16"> <polyline fill="none" stroke-miterlimit="10" points="7.3,14.7 2.5,8 7.3,1.2"/> </svg> </div> <span class="pagination-title-wrapper"> <div class="visually-hidden">Previous</div> <div class="item-pagination-prev-next">Previous</div> <h2 class="item-pagination-title">A Deep Dive into 1:1s</h2> </span> </a> <a href="/tec-podcast/blog-what-does-workplace-wellbeing-really-mean" class="item-pagination-link item-pagination-link--next"> <div class="pagination-title-wrapper"> <div class="visually-hidden">Next</div> <div class="item-pagination-prev-next">Next</div> <h2 class="item-pagination-title">What Does Workplace Wellbeing Really Mean? </h2> </div> <div class="item-pagination-icon icon icon--stroke"> <svg class="caret-right-icon--small" viewBox="0 0 9 16"> <polyline fill="none" stroke-miterlimit="10" points="1.6,1.2 6.5,7.9 1.6,14.7"/> </svg> </div> </a> </section> </main> <footer class="sections" id="footer-sections" data-footer-sections> <section data-test="page-section" data-section-theme="" class='page-section full-bleed-section layout-engine-section background-width--full-bleed section-height--small content-width--wide horizontal-alignment--center vertical-alignment--middle ' data-section-id="68228c5ac280b87b4026bbc9" data-controller="SectionWrapperController" data-current-styles="{ "imageOverlayOpacity": 0.15, "backgroundWidth": "background-width--full-bleed", "sectionHeight": "section-height--small", "customSectionHeight": 10, "horizontalAlignment": "horizontal-alignment--center", "verticalAlignment": "vertical-alignment--middle", "contentWidth": "content-width--wide", "customContentWidth": 50, "sectionTheme": "", "sectionAnimation": "none", "backgroundMode": "image" }" data-current-context="{ "video": { "playbackSpeed": 0.5, "filter": 1, "filterStrength": 0, "zoom": 0, "videoSourceProvider": "none" }, "backgroundImageId": null, "backgroundMediaEffect": { "type": "none" }, "divider": { "enabled": false }, "typeName": "blog-side-by-side" }" data-animation="none" data-fluid-engine-section data-sqsp-section="fluid-engine" > <div class="section-border" > <div class="section-background"> </div> </div> <div class='content-wrapper' style=' ' > <div class="content" > <div data-fluid-engine="true"><style> .fe-68228c5ac280b87b4026bbc8 { --grid-gutter: calc(var(--sqs-mobile-site-gutter, 6vw) - 11.0px); 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Developing Your Executive Presence Jan 29 Written By Lesa Edwards </div> </div></div><div class="sqs-block website-component-block sqs-block-website-component sqs-block-html html-block" data-block-css="["https://definitions.sqspcdn.com/website-component-definition/static-assets/website.components.html/9330f36a-b278-41f5-87d4-cfc393327b28_420/website.components.html.styles.css"]" data-block-scripts="["https://definitions.sqspcdn.com/website-component-definition/static-assets/website.components.html/9330f36a-b278-41f5-87d4-cfc393327b28_420/website.components.html.visitor.js"]" data-block-type="1337" data-definition-name="website.components.html" data-sqsp-block="text" id="block-b595677e91ac64bac192"><div class="sqs-block-content"><div class="sqs-text-block-container"> <div class="sqs-html-content" data-sqsp-text-block-content><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">Executive presence is one of the core competencies needed to get to, and be successful in, the C-suite. I also think it’s a term that gets used a lot, but often without much clarification on what exactly executive presence IS. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">My aim today, then, is to de-mystify and clarify what executive presence consists of, as well as some concrete steps you can take to improve your executive presence – regardless of what your current job title or seniority level is.</p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">To be clear, executive presence isn’t about being the loudest person in the room, but rather the person with the <strong>perceived ability to lead. </strong>We’re going to dig into what qualities support that perceived ability to lead. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Gravitas</strong></p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">A huge part of executive presence is the weight you carry – how do you react when something goes sideways or a project fails? Do you have the decisiveness to make a decision based on just 70% of the information, because the situation calls for immediate action? Are you able to read the vibe in the room, as well as manage your own vibe? </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Example</strong>: Think of a boss you have had that fell apart in a high-stress situation. You likely witnessed nervous energy, sped-up verbal communication, unclear directions, and an inability to answer questions. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">On the other hand, think of a boss you have had that rose to the occasion in a high-stress situation. You no doubt admired their “calm under pressure” demeanor, ability to clearly communicate what each team member needed to do, a very steady vocal cadence, and perhaps even a smile while doing all of this. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Action Step</strong>: The next time you are in a group meeting, pay particular attention to the energy of the other participants, as well as your own. “Read the room,” and make a decision either about what to say or what not to say based on your assessment. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"> </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Communication</strong></p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">It’s not just what you say, but how you package what you say. Be concise – lead with the “headline” rather than a 10-minute backstory. Watch your filler words – um, I mean, actually, right?, so, etc. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">Focus on eye contact and an open posture – arms not crossed, facing the person you are speaking with, and shoulders back. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Example</strong>: Think of someone you have heard speak recently who used excessive vocal pauses. How did you react – were you able to hear what they were saying, or did you find the vocal pauses distracting? </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">Conversely, who have you heard speak recently – either in your company or perhaps on a podcast – who was so clear that you were completely engaged? No vocal pauses in sight. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Action Step: </strong>Record yourself using Zoom or another tech, without a script. Then count your various vocal pauses. This awareness is the first step to correcting them.</p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"> </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Appearance</strong></p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">This isn’t about how much money you spend on your clothes, but rather how polished and professional you appear. While appearance went largely by the wayside during Covid, many people have returned to work. Some of you probably didn’t update your wardrobe at that time. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">This is also not just about what you wear. Women – makeup can be important to your executive presence. If this is not your strength, I recommend a makeup session with a professional – this is money well spent. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">Your digital presence can be affected by the lighting, background, and camera/audio quality in your home office – pay attention to these, as well. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Example</strong>: Who do you admire for how they consistently dress at work? Think about the specifics – what is it about their appearance that impresses you? If you have a chance to see that person again soon – analyze exactly what they are wearing as well as their accessories – how can you adapt their style to your own? </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>Action Step</strong>: Consider a wardrobe consultation at a reputable department store or boutique – and this goes for men, as well. As previously mentioned, consider a makeup session. And everyone: Don’t forget things like nose and ear hair, fingernails, and unruly eyebrows. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"> </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">You may be thinking that I’m asking you to be someone you aren’t – I’m not. An effective executive presence should be a magnification of your best self, not a mask or a pretense. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">Executive presence is a muscle, so the more you exercise that muscle the stronger and more innate it becomes. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">I would be remiss if I didn’t tie this topic into the work I do with clients in my six-month coaching program, The Exclusive Career Accelerator. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">The Accelerator operates within a framework of four pillars, each of which is crucial for advancement to the executive ranks. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;"><strong>The four pillars are:</strong></p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">I: Visibility & Executive Brand (Strategic Narrative)</p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">II: Impact & Strategic Results (Enterprise Acumen) </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">III: Sponsorship & Network (Advocacy & Political Capital)</p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">IV: Executive Skills & Mindset (Leadership & Resilience) </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">To give you a little background, we start with a self-assessment that identifies the most important areas we should work on. With each competency, there is a linguistic flip we work on to transform non-executive speak into executive-level communication.</p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">We cover how to make sure you are in the right room to get noticed, how to contribute thought leadership, how to develop your personal brand, establishing a personal “board of directors,” and much more. </p><p class="" style="white-space:pre-wrap;">If this sounds like something you would be interested in learning more about, let’s schedule a complimentary consult to discuss. I’ve included the link in the show notes, or you can reach out to me at <a href="mailto:lesa@theexclusivecareer.com">lesa@theexclusivecareer.com</a> and put “TECA” in the subject line. </p></div> <style>.fe-block-b595677e91ac64bac192 {mix-blend-mode: ; }</style> </div> </div></div></div></div></div></div> <div class="blog-meta-item blog-meta-item--tags" data-content-field="tags"> <span class="blog-item-tag-wrapper"><a href="/tec-podcast/tag/executive+leadership" class="blog-item-tag blog-item-tag--executive-leadership" rel="tag">executive leadership</a></span><span class="blog-item-tag-wrapper"><a href="/tec-podcast/tag/executive+presence" class="blog-item-tag blog-item-tag--executive-presence" rel="tag">executive presence</a></span><span class="blog-item-tag-wrapper"><a href="/tec-podcast/tag/executive+coaching" class="blog-item-tag blog-item-tag--executive-coaching" rel="tag">executive coaching</a></span> </div> <div class="blog-item-author-profile-wrapper" data-content-field="author"> <a href="/tec-podcast?author=617ae7024d577d7cd7e6f36a"> <span class="author-name">Lesa Edwards</span> </a> </div> </div> <section class="blog-item-comments"> <div class="blog-item-comments-toggle-wrapper"> <div id="blogItemCommentsContent" class="blog-item-comments-content" data-content-field="comments"> </div> </div> </section> </div> </article> </div> </div> </div> </section> </article> <section id="itemPagination" class="item-pagination item-pagination--prev-next" data-collection-type="blog-side-by-side" > <a href="/tec-podcast/blog-a-deep-dive-into-1-1s" class="item-pagination-link item-pagination-link--prev"> <div class="item-pagination-icon icon icon--stroke"> <svg class="caret-left-icon--small" viewBox="0 0 9 16"> <polyline fill="none" stroke-miterlimit="10" points="7.3,14.7 2.5,8 7.3,1.2"/> </svg> </div> <span class="pagination-title-wrapper"> <div class="visually-hidden">Previous</div> <div class="item-pagination-prev-next">Previous</div> <h2 class="item-pagination-title">A Deep Dive into 1:1s</h2> </span> </a> <a href="/tec-podcast/blog-what-does-workplace-wellbeing-really-mean" class="item-pagination-link item-pagination-link--next"> <div class="pagination-title-wrapper"> <div class="visually-hidden">Next</div> <div class="item-pagination-prev-next">Next</div> <h2 class="item-pagination-title">What Does Workplace Wellbeing Really Mean? </h2> </div> <div class="item-pagination-icon icon icon--stroke"> <svg class="caret-right-icon--small" viewBox="0 0 9 16"> <polyline fill="none" stroke-miterlimit="10" points="1.6,1.2 6.5,7.9 1.6,14.7"/> </svg> </div> </a> </section> </main> <footer class="sections" id="footer-sections" data-footer-sections> <section data-test="page-section" data-section-theme="" class='page-section full-bleed-section layout-engine-section background-width--full-bleed section-height--small content-width--wide horizontal-alignment--center vertical-alignment--middle ' data-section-id="68228c5ac280b87b4026bbc9" data-controller="SectionWrapperController" data-current-styles="{ "imageOverlayOpacity": 0.15, "backgroundWidth": "background-width--full-bleed", "sectionHeight": "section-height--small", "customSectionHeight": 10, "horizontalAlignment": "horizontal-alignment--center", "verticalAlignment": "vertical-alignment--middle", "contentWidth": "content-width--wide", "customContentWidth": 50, "sectionTheme": "", "sectionAnimation": "none", "backgroundMode": "image" }" data-current-context="{ "video": { "playbackSpeed": 0.5, "filter": 1, "filterStrength": 0, "zoom": 0, "videoSourceProvider": "none" }, "backgroundImageId": null, "backgroundMediaEffect": { "type": "none" }, "divider": { "enabled": false }, "typeName": "blog-side-by-side" }" data-animation="none" data-fluid-engine-section data-sqsp-section="fluid-engine" > <div class="section-border" > <div class="section-background"> </div> </div> <div class='content-wrapper' style=' ' > <div class="content" > <div data-fluid-engine="true"><style> .fe-68228c5ac280b87b4026bbc8 { --grid-gutter: calc(var(--sqs-mobile-site-gutter, 6vw) - 11.0px); 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