Expanding The Definition Of Executive Presence
- Sep 26, 2023
- 4 min read
Written by: Dr. Helen Ofosu, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
Every now and then, we encounter people and viewpoints who attempt to squeeze executive presence into a narrow box. That perspective doesn't sit right. Whenever I hear this viewpoint, there's an unwritten message implying that "true executives" must adhere to a certain predefined mold – a mold that often fails to embrace diverse forms of effective and accomplished leadership.
Inclusivity matters: Defying the mold
To some extent, I explored this a while back in a blog article about “unlikely leaders” – people who demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities despite not fitting the usual template. These leaders were described as "quiet, dry, and even bland" or "compassionate, empathetic" – qualities that aren't the first to come to mind when discussing executive presence.
As an executive coach, sometimes clients ask me for advice on how to develop their executive presence. I have my own ideas, but I often supplement my ideas with what I can find in research and business literature. I was pleased to recently find an article that aims to help leaders develop their executive presence – in a manner that wasn’t off-putting.
Here are some of my insights and a few I’ve discovered along the way.
Stand out with confidence: Embracing uniqueness
Let's talk about standing out in a way that is favorable and meaningful. About 30% to 40% of my clients belong to underrepresented groups, and they often wonder about fitting in while exuding executive presence. Here's the thing: confidence plays a crucial role in our presence, and part of that is acknowledging and owning the qualities that make us stand out.
Picture this – a single drop of food coloring in a glass of water. It doesn't blend in; it changes the whole glass. Similarly, our uniqueness can be a driving force. Just like that drop, we don't need to blend in; instead, we confidently transform and adjust our surroundings with our presence.
The ripple effect of impact: Leave your mark
Impact is closely tied to the concept of embracing your uniqueness. Just like that drop of color, our thoughts, knowledge, experiences, and character can leave a profound mark on our work and those around us. Whether it's a one-on-one connection or a larger group, both hold immense value.
Our unique perspectives can propel our organizations ahead of the curve, thanks to our unique insights. This potential is what makes us invaluable, and it undoubtedly contributes to our presence.
Crafting presence through body language and authenticity
Naturally, discussions about executive presence often lead to the topic of body language. True confidence radiates from within, expressed in openness – alert eyes, a warm smile, and engaged body posture.
As stated in this April 2023 Forbes article by Adrian Gostick, People with executive presence:
“just seem more relaxed in their own skin. They express self-confidence and strength not in old-world “power stances,” but by showing they are open: eyes alert, smiling, legs and torso pointed to the person speaking. When contemplating, they may lean back in their chairs, hands behind their heads; when making a point, they may lean in.”
The power of sincerity and self-awareness
Executive presence is grounded in sincerity and authenticity. Effective leaders offer enough of themselves to build trust while maintaining professional boundaries. This balance allows others to see them as real, relatable individuals. Moreover, modern leaders possess emotional intelligence and a genuine concern for their team's well-being, career progression, and personal lives.
Naturally, this is easier when we’re in an atmosphere of relative comfort and belonging within our workplaces. How can anyone expect to be their authentic selves if they’re preoccupied with the need for self-protection and “covering at work?” So, remember to be yourself. You're in a prime position to make a profound impact, just as you are.
Beyond the technical: Embracing personal growth
Modern leaders stand out not just for their technical prowess or knowledge, but for their emotional intelligence and genuine concern. They invest in their people's well-being, from career growth to personal well-being and happiness. Their actions ripple through their team, and they're attuned to how their behavior impacts others.
It's worth noting that my focus on these dimensions is more interpersonal than technical, untethered from the mechanics of management. In my experience, leadership stumbles aren't usually due to a lack of hard skills. Rather, leadership setbacks often involve these nuanced interpersonal dynamics. By sharing these insights, I hope more leaders can embrace these contemporary leadership dimensions, paving the way for greater success and a more harmonious professional environment.
Remember, leadership isn't about conforming – it's about transforming, connecting, and being an authentic force that propels individuals and organizations forward.
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Dr. Helen Ofosu, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Dr. Helen Ofosu has been practising Industrial / Organizational Psychology (also known as Work or Business Psychology) in the public and private sectors for almost 20 years. In addition to Career and Executive Coaching, her specialties include the assessment and development of leadership skills, and navigating the complex issues of workplace bullying, harassment, diversity and inclusion. Dr. Ofosu is one of the founding officers of the Section on Black Psychology, Canadian Psychological Association and she’s thrilled to have written a new book “How to be Resilient in Your Career: Facing Up to Barriers at Work” that was published by Routledge in February 2023.
