Executive presence is a term we increasingly hear included in discussions about leadership readiness, succession planning and talent development. Often used as a “catch-all” proxy when assessing leadership potential, my work with coaching clients indicates the comprehension about executive presence is elusive and, at times, uncertain. In other words, though positioned as the brass ring, leaders don’t always know what they’re seeking to reach. As an executive presence facilitator, my goal is to demystify it and help you understand how executive presence improves leadership effectiveness.
Defining Executive Presence
There are many definitions of executive presence bandied about on the internet and in various business & leadership education programs. The one that resonates with me was developed by Brooke Vuckovic, a clinical professor of leadership at Kellogg School of Management. Vuckovic represents her definition of executive presence as:
Executive Presence = Credibility + Ease
Ego
The brilliance of the formula is displayed in its unpretentious nature as well as in the fact that it organically lends itself to authenticity and inclusion. According to Vuckovic, while the formula’s components are universal, executive presence can and will look different from one individual, situation, or culture to the next.
For the sake of brevity, let’s define each component at a basic level. I’m planning to follow up with an in-depth series on executive presence, its components and how to unleash its power for enhanced leadership effectiveness.
Credibility is your substantive knowledge to do the job combined with preparation and showing up ready. It’s what helps a leader to build credibility and inspire commitment. Ease is your ability to emotionally self-regulate while also being sensitive to the emotions and needs of those around you. It speaks to how you perform under pressure and helps a leader build trust. Ego is your ability to effectively harmonize the notes of confidence and humility. It’s knowing you add value and understanding that others add value too. Ego speaks to your ability to connect with others.
Taking Executive Presence Beyond The Box
Due to limited and outdated views of leadership, executive presence can be used in an exclusionary manner. Executives and HR can, wittingly or unwittingly, use it as a tool to define leadership in rigid, traditional and often patriarchal ways. Too often that notion translates to a white, cis-male approach to leadership.
In my executive presence work with clients, I expressly challenge uniformity and assimilation in favor of authenticity, lived experience and the power of the paradox mindset. I support high-achieving leaders in realizing leadership and consequently your executive presence can and should be tailor made. For you!
How Executive Presence Improves Leadership Effectiveness
Leaders who possess executive presence exhibit an air of calm in the face of adversity. Their ability to remain composed under pressure showcases their resilience and adaptability. This quality not only fosters a positive work environment but also demonstrates the leader’s capacity to make well-informed decisions even in challenging circumstances.
Cultivating executive presence is an ongoing journey of self-improvement. Leaders who actively invest in refining their technical & communication skills, emotional intelligence, and overall presence improve their leadership effectiveness. They accomplish this by seeking feedback, engaging in personal development activities, and embracing new challenges & new ways of thinking, to continually evolve and become more impactful leaders.
In the intricate tapestry of leadership, executive presence emerges as a pivotal thread that elevates leadership effectiveness. It bridges the gap between cognitive and emotional intelligence by embodying qualities that foster trust, influence, and authenticity. Leaders who cultivate executive presence understand the importance of prioritizing substance and style. They invest in themselves, not merely for personal gain but to enhance their capacity to guide and inspire others. With each interaction, leaders with executive presence leave an indelible mark, shaping the organizational culture and driving change & success.
Want to transform your leadership style and embrace authentic leadership? Schedule a consultation to learn about my executive presence mastery program.
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