Achieve Executive Presence

How do you picture executive presence? You probably imagine someone who commands attention, someone who exudes confidence.

I'll share a little secret.

Confidence is a skill, not a feeling. The executive presence you're picturing doesn't come naturally. It takes awareness and practice. It requires knowing how you feel, which doesn't always match how others perceive you to be. For example, actions such as slouching, leaning, or rocking on your feet demonstrate you feel uncertain of your message. Even if you're not, clasping your hands and fidgeting indicates nervousness and insecurity. Repeated gestures are redundant and boring. They steal from your message rather than emphasize it. Posture communicates confidence, and purposeful gestures communicate credibility, impact, and interest. It exudes executive presence.

Try this.

If you're able, stand up, or you can do this where you're seated. Stand with your feet straight ahead and your legs hip-width apart to keep yourself from rocking or leaning. Now, next, relax your hands down at your sides. As you're talking, you can now use a variety of gestures to emphasize words you want your listeners to remember. After the gesture, return your arms to your side when you're done.

Virtual posture.

The same is true when you're working virtually.

Stay open and own the space in front of you, resting your arms on your desk or comfortably on your chair's armrests. This allows you to mix up your gestures by going from high to low, or out in front of you, or out to the side. Make sure your listeners can see your gestures.

Practice makes permanent.

An open posture and purposeful gestures might not feel natural at first. It will require some deliberate practice. Next time you are waiting for your coffee to brew or standing in line at a store, practice an open stand. Repeat a practice will make the skill your new habit. In today's competitive environment, it's not enough to feel confident. Influence requires you also to be perceived as confident.