Polish Your Executive Presence

Whether this is your first rodeo or you're a seasoned C-suite exec, there's always something new to learn when it comes to being polished in our ever-changing business landscape and world.

Taking the time to assess your executive presence skills is always a productive and profitable use of your time, and this practice will also help you be a stronger leader and rainmaker.

Though the term "executive presence" seems to be some magical label reserved for big-wigs, everyone in every position can develop strong executive presence.

So, let's demystify this attainable term with the right resources and outlook.

What is Executive Presence?

Some people think you can't define executive presence, that it's one of those "you know it when you see it" and “it’s just something people are born with” skills - but that's just not true. This is a skill that anyone can develop. But how can you develop this broad skill without first knowing what it is?

To make a long story short, your executive presence is your ability to command the room, successfully communicate your point, and lead others to success.

"Oh, is that all?"

We make is sound easy... but it really can be if you break it down and are armed with the tools to develop the skills needed to build business like a boss.

Let's take a look at the skills needed to develop and grow that seemingly elusive executive presence.

Pump Up Your Presentation Skills

Have you ever known a successful exec who got to the top without ever having to give presentations? Neither have we. Presentations aren't exclusive to the C-suite, though. In fact, we bet you've actually given many presentations in your career, even if you don't think you have. Stay with us here.

What if we told you that you’re actually giving a presentation every single time you talk shop or promote your business? You don't need a full auditorium and a PowerPoint to give a presentation. Shifting your mindset to think of business development opportunities as presentations will not only encourage you to step up your BD game, but it will also prepare you for those packed auditoriums fixated on what you have to share!

So, we've established that it doesn't matter what room you're in when making a presentation, but it is critical that you do read the room. Whether it's the conference room floor or a quick prospective client meeting at Starbucks, taking into consideration where you are, who you're with, and what your goal is will undoubtedly help you tailor your message.

Take the time before those opportunities to think through any roadblocks you might encounter (tech connections, loud crowds, etc.), and come prepared. Your audience, no matter the size, will know if you've prepared (or not).

Take Command of Your Communication

Everyone has their own style of communicating and their own style of receiving communication, which is why miscommunications are common, especially in group settings like law firms or professional service firms.

So, how do you get around the confusion and communicate effectively (a top-tier skill of anyone with executive presence)?

Start by identifying how you communicate. Being self-aware is key, and it doesn't have to be difficult. If you're having trouble pinpointing your specific communication style, ask for feedback from others. Reach out to colleagues and friends in your industry and ask them for their perspective on how you communicate and in which areas you could use improvement.

Knowing your own communication style is only half of this battle. Remember how we mentioned that everyone also has a style of receiving communication? We all have preferences. Identifying how your colleagues and direct reports prefer to be led is imperative.

We like to think of this as the "platinum rule." We all know the golden rule, right? You treat people how you'd like to be treated. That's a nice sentiment, but you can do better with the platinum rule: treat people how they want to be treated.

Using communication and direction in a form tailored to your team members and direct reports will boost productivity and also increase positive work culture.

Set Boundaries Like a Boss

Many people wrongly assume that burning the candle at both ends is the only way to move up the corporate ladder and build business. Some look at those billable hour requirements as a personal record to break and break them they will. We probably don't need to remind you how deeply affected the legal industry is by depression, burnout, addiction and more.

The key to breaking those cycles and working more proficiently instead of struggling with burnout is to set boundaries. Strong leaders, the ones with executive presence, are pros at work-life balance. You don't tend to see sleep-deprived and visibly exhausted leaders commanding the room or building big business with contacts they've been courting.

Creating boundaries for yourself and for your team positions you for better work product and as a more respected leader (at work and at home).

We know that all of this can sound quite daunting and might be easier said than done, but that's where your resources come in. If you're struggling with self-assessment to determine how effectively you're communicating or have absolutely no idea where to begin prioritizing that work-life balance, we'd love to help.

Society 54 has myriad of coaching levels and software to help properly structure your goals in a way that gets you home for dinner, and we'd love nothing more than to help you crush those goals, reach that executive level parking spot, and lead in a way that inspires others to follow your lead.

Reach out to our team to learn more about the resources available to professionals of all levels who need to just a bit of polish to shine.