Unlocking Charisma: Tips for Boosting Your Executive Presence

Every week I'm lucky enough to have some 1:1 time with my 7yo son Theo on our way to his gymnastics lesson. I love it. We get to talk about all of the 7 year old things. Recently he's been asking me some of the big questions, 'where do we come from', 'who was the very first person to exist', 'how do bones get into our bodies'... You know, just the easy to answer questions.

This week he was very curious about religions of the world. And I thought, I know, I'll put on a podcast so we can both learn about some of the religions around the world. As we were listening to the podcast Theo said, mum, this is no good. I asked what he meant. He said it just sounds no good... after a few minutes he said mum to person speaking has no pizzaz! 

I could totally agree, but what surprised me the most was that at age 7 he was able to understand that to be engaging you need 'pizzaz'. 

In the professional world we call this presence, specifically executive presence. 

Executive presence is that intangible quality that sets leaders apart. It's a blend of confidence, charisma, and competence that commands attention and inspires trust. While it might seem elusive, it's a skill that can be cultivated.Here are some tips to help you unlock your charisma and elevate your executive presence:

Master Your Body Language

As an ex ballet dancer, how you move your body (and your arms) matters. Your body speaks volumes before you even open your mouth. Stand tall, maintain eye contact, and use open gestures. The more comfortable you are physically, the less likely you are to have nervous habits. Your physical presence needs exude confidence and authority.

Develop Strong Communication Skills

Effective communication is the cornerstone of Executive Presence. Speak clearly, concisely, with conviction and using the right words. Practice active listening and demonstrate empathy. Tailor your message to your audience and be authentic. Leaders who are able to articulate well, are the most impactful. 

Cultivate Confidence

Believe in yourself and your abilities. Confidence is contagious, and it inspires trust in others. Prepare thoroughly for meetings and presentations, and practice visualisation techniques to boost your self-belief. I know that confidence is really courage compounding, continually doing the hard things over the easy and fast things. 

Build Your Personal Brand

A strong personal brand reinforces your Executive Presence. Identify your unique strengths and values, and communicate them consistently. Dress professionally and make a positive impression in every interaction.

Practice, Practice, Practice

Executive Presence is a skill that requires practice. Seek out opportunities to speak, lead meetings, and network with others. The more you practise, the more confident and natural you will become. The more you are able to refine your expertise and articulate well. 

Executive Presence is a journey, not a destination. By focusing on these key areas, you can develop a commanding presence that will help you achieve your career goals.

Until next time, Eat the Frog, Get the Worm, Be the Bird and start thinking about your Pizzaz and whether you can hold to attention of a 7yo. If you want some help with this for yourself or your team. Check out our upcoming masterclass details below.

Ally x

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Ally Nitschke is a best-selling Author, an award-winning Thought Leader and Speaker. She has been working with leaders and as a Leader for over 20 years.

She is on a mission to change the way we communicate at work, to lean into those uncomfortable conversations and lead with courage.

Ally is a Keynote Speaker at conferences, delivers Transformational Programs & highly engaging workshops as well as provides Executive Coaching.

In her spare time, she's mostly at the beach with her beautiful husband and 4 tiny people.