This was the exact question asked by one of my clients a couple of weeks ago, and it got me thinking. When I wrote a book on the topic of executive presence, it was 2015. A lot has happened since then, and my view now is this:
Emotional intelligence is front and centre. There’s a lot within this, but what humans crave more than ever in a post-Covid business world is connection with other human beings. Connection starts with paying attention - being fully present - and I’ve talked repeatedly about the bad habits which exist here. Self -awareness, a willingness to flex our behaviour to serve the discussion or relationship, curiosity, and a growth mindset are all elements of being able to connect with others.
Gravitas. I call that the ‘walking in a room and inspiring that “I’ll follow you anywhere” response in others’. Being credible, being consistent, being pragmatic, optimistic, practical and gracious under pressure all feature.
Exquisite communication skills. Being a translator of technical expertise into a relevant message, being a synthesiser of wide ranging discussion to target the most important components, being concise and compelling, being able to command attention but not demand attention, in any environment and with any size audience.
To find out more about how Sarah helps leaders at all stages of their career strengthen their executive presence, visit the What We Can Help With section on our website.
Written by Sarah Brummitt, Executive Coach and Leadership Development Expert
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