Leadership is often discussed in terms of executive presence. Several people possess leadership qualities that immediately capture attention. When these individuals begin speaking, we instinctively know that they have authority. We probably perceive this due to their executive presence. What has been lacking is a clear grasp of what executive presence is and how it can be assessed to guide its development among leaders and those seeking such a position.
Executive presence is intuitive and difficult to define. Ultimately, it will depend on your ability to project confidence, adapt to diverse situations, the ability to operate decisively in times of ambiguity, and the ability to compete with other talented members of the executive team.
The question is, how does one display such confidence and leadership characteristics? What are the beliefs and behaviors that indicate this? We must dissect the entire concept of executive presence to arrive at the answers.
In Strengthscape’s Executive Presence Program, we combine online pre-work, engaging facilitation, and online follow-up to create a unique learning experience. With a focus on best practices, that relate to real-world demands, the program facilitates powerful conversations that lead to clear objectives. A consistently thought-provoking program, it stimulates new conversations and perspectives regardless of the knowledge or experience of the participants. It is an opportunity for leaders of all levels of learning to reflect upon and improve their executive presence.
Irrespective of your level in the organization, you must establish a presence and demeanor that reflect your overarching leadership approach. This ensures authenticity in your leadership. The leadership approach refers to what tasks and functions you will prioritize, the types of people and behaviors you will reward or criticize, what you will do personally and what you will delegate, and how you allocate your time, as well as the way you will come across to your stakeholders. This philosophy reflects your strengths. As an executive, one must establish one’s voice: that is, identify one’s strengths and natural tendencies and leverage them to the maximum.
