A new study shows that the ability to command the room and make people stop and listen when you speak could be the key to being promoted into leadership positions, and to getting results when you achieve those positions. The Center for Talent Innovation, a research organization in New York, has identified that being perceived as leadership material is key to getting promoted into those positions, and to succeeding once you're there. The senior executives surveyed agreed that executive presence counts for nearly 26% of what it takes to get promoted! 

What is Executive Presence?   

Executive presence, often characterized as "the 'it'  factor," can be traced to a few key elements:

• The ability to project gravitas
• Confidence
• Poise under pressure
• Decisiveness
• Communication and speaking skills
• The ability to connect with people
• The ability to read an audience or situation
• Image and appearance

Fortunately for aspiring executives and executives alike, these skills can be cultivated. With the right coaching, you can develop these competencies to improve your executive presence.

Image Plays an Important Role in Executive Presence     

The image you present plays a key role in your executive presence. Cultivating a professional image doesn't mean you have to look like a model; instead, image is about paying attention to a variety of factors to create an overall image that suits your role as an executive. 

Image is about managing the details, such as:

Image isn't a set of hard and fast rules that applies to all executives. The image you want to convey may vary from industry to industry, and even from setting to setting. An executive in the financial industry may want to convey a more formal, professional image, while an executive for a company that specializes in outdoor products may want a casual, more approachable image.

Make no mistake, though - no matter what your industry, image matters. Make sure the image you're projecting is the one you want to convey based on the setting and the nature of your business.

How to Create Executive Presence  

The most effective way to build your executive presence is by strategic coaching. The types of skills you'll focus on during coaching may vary depending on your personality and where you need development, but may include things like:

• Be professional - not just "smart".  It's not uncommon for people in a professional setting to try to "sound smart" when talking with a important clients, other executives or higher authorities. Strive for simplicity. Avoid jargon, and express your ideas with precision.
• Learn when to speak, and what not to say. Knowing what to say, and when not to speak, is a valuable skill. Learn to moderate your emotions and respond in the best manner for each situation.
• Think strategically. Approach every aspect of your work with strategic thinking. Learn to eliminate the trivial to focus on the significant. See the big picture - don't just focus on the how or why. When you take action or participate in a conversation, focus on clarity and moving forward.
• Exude energy. People who move, walk and gesture with energy exude passion. This passion is engaging for others, and is a key component to developing executive presence.
• Focus on body language. Make sure your body language is consistent with your message. When your body language conflicts with what you're saying, you lose credibility and create doubt in the people around you.