How can you coach executives to improve their presence?

Executive presence is the ability to project confidence, influence, and authenticity in any situation. It is a key skill for leaders who want to inspire trust, motivate teams, and communicate effectively. But how can you coach executives to improve their presence and enhance their impact? Here are some tips to help you guide them in developing this essential quality.

1 Assess their strengths and gaps

The first step in coaching executives to improve their presence is to help them identify their current level of performance and their areas for improvement. You can use various tools and methods to assess their presence, such as feedback surveys, 360-degree reviews, self-reflection exercises, or observation. The goal is to help them gain awareness of how they are perceived by others, what they do well, and what they need to work on.

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David H. Deans

Principal Consultant - Digital Business Growth Advisory
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In my experience as a management consultant, I've worked with several senior executives in the technology sector, specifically to enhance their 'though leadership' skills. I help them to develop a strategic narrative -- so they become remarkable and influential opinion leaders. I found that many executives haven't fully developed their storytelling skills, and so they appreciate being coached with customized guidance. Writing and presentation skills are essential for both internal and external communication. A candid assessment of current skills can be helpful, as long as the executive is open to actionable feedback on their performance.

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Chris Pearse

Organisational Leadership • Team Leadership • Personal Leadership
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If you mean gravitas or charisma, forget it - anyone trying to be charismatic will immediately expose themselves as having none. If you mean being present to what is going on in and around you in the moment, this is something that can be developed and is the basis of (real) mindfulness. Significantly, those who are truly present also have a presence and charisma. But how they are perceived is the furthest thing from their focus of attention.

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2 Define their goals and action plan

The next step is to help them set clear and realistic goals for improving their presence and create a specific action plan to achieve them. You can use the SMART framework to guide them in defining their goals, which should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Then, you can help them break down their goals into manageable steps and assign deadlines and accountability measures. The action plan should also include resources and support that they can use along the way.

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3 Provide feedback and coaching

The third step is to provide ongoing feedback and coaching to help them monitor their progress and adjust their actions as needed. You can use various techniques to give them constructive and supportive feedback, such as the sandwich method, the STAR method, or the GROW model. You can also use coaching questions to help them reflect on their challenges, successes, and learnings. The feedback and coaching should be timely, specific, and actionable.

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4 Encourage practice and experimentation

The fourth step is to encourage them to practice and experiment with different strategies and behaviors to improve their presence. You can suggest various opportunities and scenarios for them to apply their learning and test their skills, such as presentations, meetings, negotiations, or networking events. You can also challenge them to step out of their comfort zone and try new things, such as using different communication styles, body language, or storytelling techniques.

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Andie Posey RN, MSN, MHA, CPC

Visionary Nurse Executive | CNO | Driving change and innovation by empowering nurse leaders | Certified Professional Life Coach
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Consider teaching process improvement techniques and systems thinking. It is easy for executives to get in the weeds and that wastes valuable time. Systems thinking and designing great processes are essential.

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5 Celebrate their achievements and growth

The fifth step is to celebrate their achievements and growth and help them recognize the positive impact of their improved presence. You can use various methods to acknowledge and reward their efforts and results, such as recognition, appreciation, feedback, or incentives. You can also help them identify the benefits and outcomes of their improved presence, such as increased confidence, influence, or engagement. The celebration should be sincere, meaningful, and motivational.

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6 Support their continuous learning and development

The sixth step is to support their continuous learning and development and help them maintain and enhance their presence over time. You can provide them with ongoing resources and guidance to help them keep learning and growing, such as books, podcasts, articles, courses, or mentors. You can also encourage them to seek feedback and coaching regularly and to review and update their goals and action plan periodically. The support should be consistent, relevant, and customized.

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David H. Deans

Principal Consultant - Digital Business Growth Advisory
(edited)
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One time I worked with an executive leader who was very technically knowledgeable, but had trouble complementing those skills and experience with business acumen. He agreed that I would help him improve his writing of press releases and other commercial content. At first, I gave him suggestions on how to develop a draft narrative, via topical research. However, he preferred that I would ghostwrite his editorials, published under his byline. This approach can lead to dependency, and therefore I don't recommend it beyond a brief period of time. The best way to learn and gain confidence is to try, again and again. Practice does improve executive performance over time.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How can you coach executives to improve their presence?

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2

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4

5

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1 Assess their strengths and gaps

2 Define their goals and action plan

3 Provide feedback and coaching

4 Encourage practice and experimentation

5 Celebrate their achievements and growth

6 Support their continuous learning and development

7 Here’s what else to consider

Executive Management

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How can you coach executives to improve their presence?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Assess their strengths and gaps

2 Define their goals and action plan

3 Provide feedback and coaching

4 Encourage practice and experimentation

5 Celebrate their achievements and growth

6 Support their continuous learning and development

7 Here’s what else to consider

Executive Management

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