8 Career Tips Beyond Skills and Experience
Your technical skills and years of experience might have helped you rise to where you are, but they may not be enough to propel you further. Executive presence—the quality that distinguishes exceptional leaders—can significantly influence who chooses to work with you, work for you, or invest in your business.
Many rising stars struggle with aspects of executive presence, especially women, who face unique challenges in leadership development. And a lack of executive presence can derail career advancement, as overlooked details—like basic table manners—can impact perceptions of competence.
Here’s how to refine your executive presence:
1. Communication Style
What may feel like a constructive debate to you could be perceived as antagonistic by others. Cultivate a more empathetic, patient communication style that still maintains your toughness. Listen actively and be mindful of how your message lands.
2. Organizational Awareness
Understand the broader organizational structure, including how different departments operate. Build relationships beyond your team and seek common ground with colleagues across the company. Don’t wait for the CEO to start conversations—take the initiative and build connections without appearing opportunistic.
3. Executive Thinking
When presenting data to executives, consider the broader implications. Shift from tactical data analysis to strategic thinking. Ask, “So what?” and focus on how your information drives decision-making and impacts the organization as a whole.
4. Attire
While seemingly superficial, attire can influence how you’re perceived. Dress in a way that reflects the position you aspire to, especially when moving to a new role or location. Take note of how top performers in your company dress and set a tone that others will follow.
5. Confidence without Arrogance
It’s important to project confidence, but be cautious of crossing into arrogance. Effective leaders strike a balance between self-assuredness and humility. Acknowledge others’ contributions and remain approachable while demonstrating competence.
6. Nonverbal Cues
Your body language plays a pivotal role in conveying confidence. Maintain good posture, make eye contact, and avoid fidgeting. These simple nonverbal cues communicate authority and engagement without saying a word.
7. Emotional Intelligence
Emotional intelligence is a key component of executive presence. Be attuned to your own emotions and those of others. Managing your emotions in stressful situations and responding empathetically to others’ feelings helps build trust and respect.
8. Decisiveness
Effective leaders make decisions confidently and stand by them. Avoid indecisiveness, which can undermine trust. Show that you are capable of assessing situations, gathering input, and making well-informed decisions quickly.
Does your executive presence reflect sophistication and confidence, or is it more suited to casual settings? Polish your image to shine in every situation and avoid allowing a lackluster presence to hinder your career advancement.