Redefining Leadership: The Power of Presence in the Modern Workplace
A Quick Guide for Increasing Your Executive Presence
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Redefining Leadership: The Power of Presence in the Modern Workplace
Also this week:
The Lighter Side of Presence
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Redefining Leadership: The Power of Presence in the Modern Workplace
The traditional symbols of success are no longer enough, a new kind of leadership is emerging.
It transcends credentials and relies on the intangible yet undeniable power of presence.
The Essence of Leadership Presence
Leadership presence is an indescribable quality that sets true leaders apart.
It's the ability to command a room without saying a word, to inspire others through your very being.
In today's fast-changing business world, it's becoming essential for those who want to make a lasting impact.
It’s a conversation that I’m having more often with my clients, so I thought it was important to cover
The Three Pillars of Presence
According to renowned expert Sylvia Ann Hewlett, leadership presence rests on three key pillars:
1. Gravitas: The ability to maintain composure and confidence in the face of adversity
2. Communication: The art of active listening and meaningful, impactful messaging
3. Appearance: The nonverbal cues that reflect your professional aspirations and values
But there's also a crucial fourth pillar that underlies them all, emotional intelligence.
By developing a deeper understanding of yourself and others, you can build the trust and connection essential for effective leadership in an age of greater uncertainty.
Cultivating Your Leadership Presence
So how can you develop your leadership presence?
Here are a few key strategies:
1. Craft Your Leadership Identity: Think about what you stand for, what you're good at, and where you want to go. Use this to guide how you lead.
2. Improve Communication: Get better at listening, speak clearly, and make sure your messages are straightforward and meaningful.
3. Build Confidence: Work on being (or at least appearing) confident, staying calm when things get tough, and showing authority when needed.
4. Grow Your Knowledge: Keep learning in your field to be a leader others look to for advice and direction.
5. Enhance Emotional Intelligence: Boost your ability to understand your own emotions, empathize with others, and handle social situations effectively.
6. Get and Use Feedback: Find mentors and ask for feedback to improve. Use what you learn to make better decisions.
7. Pursue Ongoing Development: Always look for ways to get better, re-evaluate your progress, and adapt your approach to lead effectively as things change.
Authenticity: The Missing Piece for Lasting Impact
In a world of constant change and uncertainty, authenticity has become the ultimate leadership currency.
By staying true to yourself while adapting to the needs of the moment, you can create a leadership style that is uniquely your own and deeply impactful to others.
Ultimately, leadership presence is an ongoing process.
By committing to your continual growth and development and staying true to your character and values, you can cultivate these skills and qualities that will set you apart.
So why settle?
Invest in yourself, and unlock your potential to create lasting change in your career and beyond.
A Few More References:
Executive Presence 2.0: Leadership in an Age of Inclusion by Sylvia Ann Hewlett
Own the Room: Discover Your Signature Voice to Master Your Leadership Presence
True North: Leading Authentically in Today's Workplace, Emerging Leaders Edition, 3rd Edition
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The Big Work Lie: Being Indispensable Will Save Your Job
Becoming the only staffer with certain skills or information might feel like insurance. To some bosses, it’s a red flag.
They Chose to Take a Pay Cut—and Say They’re Happier
Switching to a job with a lower salary often means trimming your expenses, but it can come with a raise in free time and work-life balance
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The Lighter Side of Presence
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