The phrase executive presence first appeared in leadership circles in the late 20th century.
It quickly became a buzzword in boardrooms, performance reviews, and coaching sessions. Yet for all the talk, it remained elusive. Many ambitious professionals were told, “You need more executive presence”, but few could explain what that meant or how to achieve it.
Executive presence is not a single trait you’re born with. It’s a set of behaviors, skills, and habits that signal credibility, confidence, and influence. It’s the ability to inspire trust in your leadership, even under pressure. And while everyone wants it, too few understand how to build it.
After decades of coaching leaders, CEOs, and professionals worldwide, I’ve distilled executive presence into practical insights. Below are 20 ways you can strengthen yours—immediately and over time.
- The 60-Second Rule
Most executives lose their audience in the first 90 seconds. Don’t start with small talk. Begin with a bold statement that makes people lean in.
- Data Into Story
Numbers inform, but stories inspire. Wrap statistics in a human context, and people will remember them.
- Leading Through Change
People fear uncertainty more than change itself. Explain the why, acknowledge feelings, and inspire with vision.
- Brevity Builds Credibility
A 45-minute unfocused presentation weakens you. A sharp 15-minute talk, anchored with a story, builds credibility. Brevity is strength.
- Calm Inspires Confidence
In high-stakes moments, your calm presence gives others courage. Slow your pace, pause, and lead with certainty.
- The Calm Leader
Presence is most visible under pressure. Composure earns trust. Calm is contagious.
- Confidence That Inspires
Confidence isn’t the loudest voice—it’s the clearest. Leaders with presence communicate with conviction.
- Charisma Through Connection
Charisma isn’t about dazzling—it’s about connecting. Remember names, listen deeply, and show interest. Connection inspires loyalty.
- First Impressions Matter
Appearance, poise, and professionalism shape perception in seconds. Like it or not, first impressions count.
- Poise on Zoom
Presence is hybrid. Online, your lighting, sound, and eye contact carry as much weight as your words.
- Decisiveness Under Pressure
Indecision erodes confidence. Clear, timely choices—especially tough ones—strengthen presence.
- The Power of Credibility
Do what you say. Follow through. Take responsibility. Credibility is the foundation of presence.
- Communication That Commands
Leaders with presence speak clearly, concisely, compellingly. No rambling. No fillers. Their words spread because they’re easy to repeat.
- Authenticity Wins Trust
Authenticity is executive presence. Share real stories. Admit what you don’t know. People respect what’s genuine.
- Listening as Leadership
Leaders who listen earn authority. Deep, respectful listening signals presence.
- Gravitas in Action
Gravitas isn’t noise—it’s quiet weight. It makes people lean in. Authenticity, confidence, and clarity = gravitas.
- Speak to Be Remembered
Every time you speak, you add to—or subtract from—your presence. Make your words worth repeating.
- The Spotlight Test
Some leaders attract attention without asking. They look focused and confident. Presence draws the spotlight.
- The Role of Feedback
Presence isn’t static. It grows with feedback. Leaders who embrace input show resilience and strength.
- The Actor’s Secret
Great leaders are like great actors: personal in public. They connect authentically, let real emotion show, and hold the stage.
The Bottom Line
Executive presence is not about perfection. It’s about how you make others feel: confident in your leadership, clear on your vision, and committed to following you.
The good news? You no longer have to wonder what executive presence is. You can build it, practice it, and strengthen it—one conversation, one decision, one presentation at a time.
If you’re serious about advancing your career, influencing decisions, and inspiring your teams, I invite you to explore FrippVT Powerful, Persuasive Presentations online training or book a personalised coaching session. Together, we’ll transform the way you communicate—and elevate the way others perceive you.
Because when you master executive presence, you don’t just speak; you also lead.
“Your customized approach before, during, and after has resulted in more and larger sales.”
Scott Hamilton, Vice President of Sales, Distech Controls
“Your ability to hold an audience in the palm of your hand with a story is incredible.”
Michelle Kabele, Channel Marketing, Zebra Technologies
Need help for you or your team on improving important conversations and presentations? The Fripp Customized Approach will work for you. Contact Fripp today!
