Regardless of title or status in the corporate hierarchy, everyone has the ability to develop “executive presence.” When you do, you’ll enhance your professional reputation and improve your chances for advancement. This is a powerful but often overlooked strategy that can truly shape the future of your career.
What exactly is executive presence?
Think about an executive you admire. Sure, you probably have a few that you don’t hold in high regard, but focus on one you really look up to.
Chances are good he or she has a certain, intangible quality that tells people — from the moment they enter a room — to sit up and take notice. The world’s most universally admired executives radiate confidence and command respect. When they speak, people listen. They carry themselves with an indescribable ease and demonstrate poise, composure and dignity even under the most intense pressure.
[See: 25 Best Business Jobs for 2017.]
It’s no coincidence that strong, successful executives have this in common. That elusive “presence” they exude is part of the reason they hold such powerful positions, and it’s part of what makes them good at it.
If you’re looking to advance your career, honing your own executive presence is one of the most impactful things you can do. Regardless of your current position, you too can demonstrate the same qualities by employing the recommendations below.
Speak With Intention
Effective executives know the power of words and they understand that restraint is often the best tool. When they speak, people listen — because they know whatever is being said is important. Executives, like all of us, are busy, so they don’t waste time on irrelevant tangents. They are succinct, clear and concise in their communication.
Think about how you speak in the workplace. Are you careful with your words? Do you present complicated scenarios in simple terms? Do you listen to others before sharing your opinions? Do you offer generous praise and tactful, constructive criticism? Do you think before you open your mouth?
All too often, we take our words for granted. But others use them to construct perceptions about who we are and what we offer. Ultimately, those perceptions impact how others treat us and the opportunities they afford us.
[See: Famous CEOs and Executives Share Their Best Career Advice.]
Look the Part
Executive presence is visible. Often, you can walk into a meeting and know immediately who is in control simply by looking at the individuals involved. They aren’t necessarily the most attractive person in the room, but they have an attractive aura that surrounds them.
If that sounds a little out there, just picture the world’s most well-known executives — Richard Branson, Anna Wintour or Mark Zuckerberg, for example. They all have a signature look that goes deeper than the clothes they wear. They’re confident in who they are and it physically shows.
What are you demonstrating with your physical presentation in the workplace? How do you carry yourself? How do you sit in meetings? Do you monitor your facial expressions and body language? Do you choose a wardrobe style that fits your organization and the role you want to play in it?
Executive presence does involve honing the right look, but there’s no single right way to do it. Present the physical version of yourself that best embodies what executive presence means to you.
[See: 10 Ways to Perfect Your Personal Brand.]
Manage Emotions
Executive presence is business-oriented. That doesn’t mean you have to be cold and unfeeling, but it does mean you should manage intense levels of emotion. The best executives know that emotions have ripple effects. They leverage positive feelings — like passion and enthusiasm — for the greater good. Likewise, they manage negative ones to prevent fear and damage to morale.
How well do you manage your emotional intensity at work? Do you know how and when to appropriately demonstrate your feelings? Do you remain professional and polite even when emotions are strong? Are you able to positively and productively channel emotions for the good of everyone involved?
As humans, we are emotional creatures. But the working world is not meant to be an emotional place. Successful executives know that extreme emotions are best expressed behind closed doors.
Finally, remember that most executives spent a long time in the trenches before rising to the top. These aren’t skills that can be gained overnight. It takes time and effort to develop executive presence. However, it’s a worthwhile endeavor for those with high career aspirations.
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3 Ways to Develop Executive Presence Regardless of Your Title originally appeared on usnews.com
