The Unspoken Power of Executive Presence

What you say is important — but how you show up might matter even more.

That’s where executive presence comes in.

At its core, executive presence is the ability to inspire confidence — in your team, your peers, and your leadership. It’s that intangible quality that makes people stop, listen, and trust your direction. While it often gets described as “gravitas,” “poise,” or even just “charisma”, it’s much more than a buzzword or personality trait. It’s a strategic leadership asset.

Whether you're leading a team, pitching to investors, or navigating a crisis, your presence sets the tone. It influences how decisions are made, how opportunities are assigned, and how effectively your message lands.

According to a Center for Talent Innovation study, executive presence accounted for 26% of what it takes to get promoted — more than any other factor.

Here’s why it matters now more than ever:

• Hybrid and remote work have made it harder to build in-person rapport. Presence now includes how you show up on screen.

• First impressions are formed in seconds. Your body language, tone, and energy can either open doors or close them.

• Leaders are culture carriers. How you show up gives others permission to follow suit — or not.

Some Keys to Executive Presence: 

•  Gravitas: The ability to project confidence, decisiveness, and emotional intelligence. It’s staying composed under pressure and owning your voice.

• Communication: Clear, concise, and compelling speech. It’s about being heard and understood in any room (or Zoom).

• Appearance: Not about fashion, but about alignment. Do you look like the leader you are? Are you dressed and groomed in a way that fits your environment and message?

• Practice presence daily: Show up intentionally in meetings. Hold eye contact. Use pauses. Speak with clarity and purpose.

• Lead with values: Authenticity is the foundation of trust. Executive presence isn’t about acting — it’s about alignment between your inner compass and outer expression.

If you're looking to grow your impact, start with how you show up. 

For more information on a deeper dive into strategies to improve your executive presence in your current leadership role, or to develop your skills for a future promotion, feel free to contact us about our leadership development programs.