The NEW Face of Leadership Presence AKA Executive Presence

As a communication consultant I provide practical understanding of application around the topic of Executive Presence so just imagine my delight when I read a recent research  by economist Sylvia Ann Hewitt that in short highlighted the key composition of the 3 attributes of Executive Presence (i.e. Gravitas, Communication Skills and Appearance) to now include: Inclusivity, Authenticity, Respect for Others, ‘New Normal’ style of dress and curation of online image ( yes to nailing your virtual presence as well!) and listen to learn.  Likewise, traditional traits like these are no longer on the list:  ‘Blue-chip Pedigree, Forcefulness, Joking and bantering and height!

Who does not want to have ‘executive presence’? The truth is every leader does. The other truth is that quite often the ‘look’ of executive presence often felt like it’s for others i.e. white males that are at least 6 feet tall (not me!).  That is not the case anymore thanks in large part to the changes in areas such as social movements like Black Lives Matter, the recent Covid-19 pandemic and the significant use of technology as a norm of working.   

So yes, the traditional image of what creates executive presence is changing thankfully for the better especially for women and people of color. I like to call it ‘Leadership Presence’ as it is not a trait reserved for executives only but instead for anyone, regardless of where they are in their career journey who desire a more powerful leadership connection with others.

While this unique skill of leadership presence will always be a journey for every professional, I am happy to know that attaining it is more within reach for anyone,  both in-person and virtually speaking.