Good morning, Reader,​
​Rise & Thrive!

“You need more executive presence,” is one of the most common and most frustrating pieces of feedback leaders receive.

But what does that actually mean?

It’s rarely defined, yet it plays a key role in promotions, decision-making, influence, and how you're perceived. The truth is, executive presence isn’t one thing, it’s a combination of behaviors and qualities that signal leadership.

Here’s a breakdown of what it usually refers to and 5 practical ways you can build more of it starting today:

1. Command the Room Without Taking It Over

Your physical presence speaks before you do. People with strong executive presence often seem calm, focused, and intentional.

• Practice grounded body language: open posture, still hands, direct eye contact.
• Don’t rush to speak, own the silence. Confidence often shows in stillness.
• Show up like your presence matters, because it does.

This doesn’t mean you need to be the loudest or most extroverted person, it means others feel your calm authority when you enter a room.

2. Speak with Clarity, Not Just Confidence

Executive presence isn't just about what you say, it’s about how you say it. Leaders with presence communicate clearly, concisely, and with purpose.

• Get to the point quickly. Avoid long build-ups and lead with your insight.
• Adapt your message to your audience. What a CEO needs to hear is different from what your team needs.
• Practice active listening. Sometimes presence is felt most by how attentively you respond.

Whether you’re presenting to the board or giving feedback to a direct report, clarity builds credibility.

3. Build Influence Through Trust, Not Just Title

People with executive presence don’t rely on hierarchy to get buy-in, they earn it through relationships, integrity, and good judgment.

• Follow through on what you say you’ll do. Reliability builds respect.
• Show people they matter, remember names, acknowledge contributions, and lead with empathy.
• Be the calm in the storm. When you stay steady under pressure, others lean on you.

True influence comes from being trusted, not just being right.

4. Consistency Is More Powerful Than Charisma

You don’t need to be flashy or performative to have presence. In fact, what builds long-term credibility is consistency.

• Are you the same leader when things go wrong as when they go right?
• Do people know what to expect from you in a meeting, crisis, or 1:1?
• Do your words and actions line up even when no one’s watching?

The most respected leaders don’t surprise people, they anchor them.

5. Clarify the Feedback and Turn It into Action

If someone gives you vague feedback like “you need more executive presence,” don’t stop there.

• Ask: “Can you share what that means in this context?”
• Probe for specifics: Is it about my tone, how I present ideas, or how I manage tough conversations?
• Seek feedback from peers and mentors who’ve seen you in different environments.

Executive presence isn't a mystery, it’s a skill set you can develop, once you know what you're aiming for.

🚨 Bridge the gap between where your career is and where you know it should be

​
You’ve outgrown your current role but you’re not sure how to position yourself for what’s next. You might be aiming for a promotion, a pivot, or just a bigger seat at the table. But, the journey to chart the course between where you are and where you want to be can seem unclear.

The Executive Career Accelerator™ our 6-week coaching program can help put you on the right path. We’ll clarify your executive identity, elevate your presence, and build the strategy you need to move forward in your career with confidence and credibility.

You’re closer than you think. Let’s explore working together.​
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I look forward to connecting with you further and helping you blaze New Career Directions!

Cheers!
Lisa Chubinsky, CPCC, CTS, CPC
Founder and CEO New Career Directions​
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Lisa Chubinsky, CPCC, CTS, CPC is an Award-Winning Certified Career Coach, Executive Coach, Executive Resume Writer, Career Strategist, Job Search and Promotion Strategist, Interview Preparation Coach, Former Executive Recruiter, Workshop Presenter and Keynote Speaker