Executive Presence for Women
The whole idea of executive presence for women has become fraught. Fix organisations – not women
I became interested in Executive Presence very early after it emerged as a leadership and career concept. These are the qualities that inspire and motivate others to respect and trust strong leaders. But within a relatively short space of time, I joined the ranks of those who found it mystifying. I also suspected that we were trying to shoehorn women into a way of behaving and being that didn’t sit naturally.
Wasn’t it the organisation which should change not the women?
Those initial feelings have certainly consolidated and it’s time to revisit the whole idea. The notion of executive presence for women has become fraught as time goes by.
Definition
Executive Presence is an elusive concept that is difficult to define but is clear to us all we seem to know that when someone has it. It is a mix of gravitas and charisma combined with confidence, that generates trust and respect. When we think about leaders who exhibit executive presence, names such as Barak Obama, Michelle Obama, Angela Merkel, George Clooney, Sheryl Sandberg, Oprah Winfrey trip off the tongue.
But what about Mark Zuckerberg, Tim Cook, Greta Thunberg are all successful leaders who perhaps don’t fall into the same mould?
It’s clear that for those that want to move into a leadership role, having that “je ne sais quoi” which no one can put their finger on, definitely helps. It seems that many of the elements overlap and are deeply connected. Skills in one area helps develop skills in another.
Composition of Executive Presence
✔️ Self awareness
Those with EP are clear about their goals values and vision and what they stand for. This helps them understand what they stand against and where their boundaries lie. They are comfortable in their own skins and can engage authentically with everyone around them. They are able to manage their emotions which enables them to stay calm and show poise under pressure. This allows them to be consistent in the way they show up. They make their points firmly but empathetically and are engaged listeners. This helps them to able to inspire, motivate, influence, and lead others.
Developing an executive presence isn’t about delivering a good PowerPoint or dressing for success. It’s about the small daily habits that are so deeply embedded they become who you are. And they can be learned. This personal branding by another name. What makes you special and where and how do you add value.
✔️ Effective communication
- Being engaged
In basic terms, executive presence is the ability or instinct to be fully engaged in whatever you are doing. Your focus is the task in hand or the person or people in front of you. To be present.
When you are fully present you are physically and emotionally anchored. You are able to pause, reflect and concentrate on what you are doing or is going on. You can block out white noise and distractions. This allows you to deliver your message concisely and precisely without being flustered. You can handle challenges or criticism in a constructive way and not become defensive, personal, or aggressive. Being poised under pressure and consistent with an ability to manage your emotions fosters trust and respect which allows you to lead people effectively. What people hate is a boss who is inconsistent, moody and changes their mind frequently.
When you are present with positive energy you impact the room. I have seen one toxic leader change the atmosphere of a room as soon as he walked in. Silence fell. People looked down or exchanged knowing looks. This doesn’t necessarily mean being a constant cheerleader but mirroring the feeling of the room with appropriate reactions. In a room where everyone is sombre – a funeral or delivering bad news, cracking jokes will not go down well.
Understanding the triggers for your “hot” moments or distractions is key which requires deep levels of self-awareness. This allows you to respond appropriately. It’s how you show up.
2. Communication Style
This applies to both verbal and non-verbal communication.
- Be aware of your posture and body language even when dealing with people online. Eye contact and a smile never go amiss.
- Work on your verbal delivery. Speak concisely with clarity and conviction.
- Develop your listening skills so you can respond appropriately.
✔️Appearance
Before the pandemic appearance was a top pillar for Executive Presence. Today with the “pyjamafication” of work I think it is now less important provided that someone is appropriately turned out for their sector. You no longer have to be suited and booted to demonstrate executive presence. Some sectors still have more formal codes, others following #WFH became more relaxed. The most important thing is you are able to read the room.
But whatever happens, you can’t change who you are, but you can change how you are. This doesn’t mean selling out or compromising but being open to learning new skills and approaches. This is all learnable and not innate so don’t despair. We can all learn something every day.
If you need to develop your Executive Presence skills – get in touch NOW
