Executive Presence

Often referred to as the “it” or “x” factor, executive presence is often described but not often defined,  making it hard to develop. Executive presence is the ability to inspire confidence in others – that you  are worthy of following, can deliver, and have the potential to do great things over time.  

Certain observable personality factors contribute to it, e.g., being well adjusted, sufficiently ambitious,  or reasonably interpersonally sensitive. Certain personality-driven, stress-induced behaviors detract  from it, e.g., emotional reactivity and other avoidant behaviors, narcissism, bullying, and other  dominating behaviors, and micro-management, appeasement, and other conforming behaviors.  Managing personality factors comes with recognition and practice and can form a solid base.  

Exceptional Executive Presence, however, comes from identifying and developing specific enabling  competencies. Understanding and developing these competencies isn’t hard – it just takes attention.