Have you ever wondered why one person with the same skills and qualifications gets promoted over another? Executive presence, this term may sound vague and indefinable to some, but it is achievable.
Mahatma Gandhi, Barak Obama, Steve Jobs, Larry Ellison, we all agree on one common thing among these people – “Executive presence”. Although very different people, they inspire others who would like to follow them.
What is Executive Presence? In simple terms, executive presence is about your ability to inspire confidence in others that you are the leader they want to follow. Leadership presence isn’t an inborn quality for many. Instead, many it is a skill that many have learned as it enables you to command respect and it inspires others. In recent times it is very inspiring to read about Sridhar Vembu founder of Zoho and Girish Mathrubootham founder of Fresh works, from the IT industry.
There are a set of traits that are displayed by professionals who has a strong executive presence. We don’t have to be the most outgoing or outspoken people to demonstrate executive presence but can practice certain traits to become a leader who can inspire others
Self-awareness and understanding others are essential components of a leader. There is a panel discussion called Nerpada Pesu that I watch regularly on a Tamil television channel called Puthiya Thalaimurai. They talk about the current social problems. Mainly host asks the question about the problem directly to the panelist /Concerned/responsible. What is the reason for the problem and how to solve it, etc? Guest answers in the program their views and defensive arguments. Mostly there will be arguments among the panelists. (Something like The republic tv panel discussion shows) But I have always admired certain people like) who is very composed in answering questions. These kinds of discussions on TV are always provoking but he handles them in a calm composed way suiting to the situation. I see such panelist has Mr. Peter Alphonse (lawyer, Congress party ability to control their emotions, recognize emotions in others, and manage their response accordingly. One approach to succeed in this is to be open to feedback from supervisors, peers, and subordinates. Make sure to seek feedback from people who see you in various situations, so we benefit from a balanced perspective.
Charisma: Leaders with executive presence can draw others to them. I immediately remember a few names whom I have personally seen as charismatic leaders Jaggi Vasudev of ISHA, Ajith –Cine actor, and of course, me being a Cricket lover MS Dhoni. This is often achieved through strong listening skills. They show undistracted focus on the other person while communicating feelings through facial expressions shows people that you’re human and make it easier for them to connect with you. Even small cues makes big difference. After seeing movie 83 recently in OTT, I could relate to Kapil Dev as such a leader
What you say and how you say it. – Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji is one of the best examples that I can relate to when I can talk about presenting himself with confidence. He concentrates on what he wears as well. Eye contact, Focus, good posture, and facial expression match your message that we say are essential to show your confidence. voice with the right pitch, volume, and pace. And of course, what we wear is also important to look apart so choose your wardrobe carefully.
Credibility Comes with Clarity: Not just the content but the language we choose to deliver will also impact our credibility. Filler language such as “um,” “uh,” and “so”, “ you know” will diminish the presence when someone with a strong presence speaks and others take note. There will be no doubt of the conviction behind their words. Dr.J Jayalalitha Ex chief minister’s interview with Simi Garewal (Rendezvous with Jayalalithaa – YouTube) is the best example I could think of. Such a confident and clear interview ever we could see. If our point is unclear, attention from the listener will be lost. Preparing before communication is important. If we can’t articulate it to ourselves, then we are not ready to communicate it to others
Everyone wants to be a leader who is respected by others I’m sure Executive presence is within our reach If we develop with a little personal reflection, practice, and coaching. Whether we want to chart a path to the C-suite or not, executive presence is about bringing out the best version of yourself.
