How can mid-career professionals improve their executive presence?

What I am hearing above is what is usually known as a 360 review. The issue with that is that it may take a while to get responses and/or you may not get the most accurate responses (depending on who you ask). For example, if you ask a client for feedback and they are not comfortable with providing feedback they may give you a nice blanket review. However, if you compile enough information, you will perhaps begin to see a larger picture. That being said, you do not need to rely on just feedback from others. Here are some ideas: 1- Take a look at previous projects and asses what went well, what did not. 2- Strength assessments. 3- Research your “favorite” executive. What did they do that you could too? I hope this helps. Good luck! 👍🏻

In the work-from-home environment age, mid-level career professionals can use the current circumstances to their advantage by being more present and visible. If you are more available for your peers than other people around you, you will automatically be seen with good leadership qualities. The key is to be seen, to be available and assessable.

Being prepared to step out of their comfort zone and create visibility in key initiatives, which enables the individual to grow and be stretched in a space where the “norm” may be less well defined than on a well-established business project. This will allow the individual to pioneer ideas and activity in a space where creativity and broad thinking is likely to be encouraged.

I believe it is important to craft your words not just for clarity but to resonate with the genuine empathy that forms a bond between speaker and listener. Understand that effective communication transcends words alone; it embraces the nuances of tone, body language, and the shared human experience. Like an artist perfecting their masterpiece, refine your communication skills with the precision of an empathetic touch, creating a connection that goes beyond the spoken language.

In my experience, learning to communicate effectively is more important than any other skill. If your vision is too big, for you, you need others to help. Learning to communicate is the only way to accomplish more, than you could alone.

In the realm of executive presence, influence plays a crucial role. It emphasises the ability to inspire and mobilise others towards a shared vision. It extends beyond showcasing expertise and credibility! Genuine influence stems from cultivating authentic relationships and resonating with one's true self and narratives. In the contemporary landscape, authenticity and relatability hold significant value, surpassing the allure of flashy credentials. Building executive presence involves not only demonstrating competence but also fostering connections that are grounded in authenticity, relatability and empowerment.

In my experience, having influence goes beyond the skills or credentials I had; it was based on the number of genuine relationships I fostered and how many resonated well with my authentic self and my stories. I totally believe that nowadays, people are looking beyond what’s flashy as they focus on what’s real, relatable and empowering within🦄🌈

Managing stress and increasing emotional intelligence are two of the top ways to increase executive presence. I do this type of work with many mid and senior-level professionals, which transforms relationships, increases influence, and helps people navigate high stakes situations with greater ease. Keen self-awareness and high emotional intelligence are essential attributes to a successful (and more enjoyable!) career ascent. As an added benefit, doing this work enhances many areas of life outside of work, enhancing personal relationships and increasing over-all well-being.

Three things I see as important for developing emotional intelligence. 1. Bringing compassion into your relationship to yourself and to others. This provides opportunities for growth, understanding and perspective shifts. 2. Know that emotions are energy in motion, they have intrinsic value and need to be felt but not to dwell on. 3. Understanding that in all things there is either a gift or a learning or a win. Tapping into the sage perspective here will help you to not compound negative emotions and create a vortex of stress.

One way to manage your emotions and stress is by being more understanding. Do not try to focus on the problem but the million solutions waiting for you. Do what works for you whether it's breathing, going for a walk, listening to music, or just talking to someone. Be more present and motivated to find solutions and remain positive.

Managing your emotions and your stress comes from within. The one most important thing to remember is it is not what others say or do or what happens, it is how you handle it internally which manifests externally. Breath-work is extremely helpful in helping maintain a healthy level in all areas. A simple method is to begin by breathing in positive energy and exhaling negativity that you no longer need to hold onto. Realizing the stress you may be feeling is not as important as figuring out a solution which will become easier once you breathe out the energy that’s keeping you from relaxing into your situation!

This needs a delicate balance between blending in and making an individual statement. Elegance, good taste, coordination and authenticity matter more than pricey clothes. An image consultant can help in creating a personal style file.

Mid-career professionals can enhance their executive presence by focusing on several key areas. First, work on effective communication skills, including articulate speech, active listening, and concise messaging. Second, cultivate a confident and composed demeanor, maintaining poise under pressure. Third, invest in developing strong interpersonal skills, building meaningful connections with colleagues and leaders. Additionally, seek opportunities for leadership roles or projects to demonstrate initiative and showcase your capabilities. Continuously refine your expertise in your field and stay abreast of industry trends to boost credibility. Lastly, seek mentorship or executive coaching to receive guidance on executive presence development.

Your presence is your super power, never forget that. And the good thing about this is that it’s something totally in your hands to influence. Ask yourself these 2 questions: 1. Who do you want to be? 2. How do you reflect that in your presence? The stage is yours, never forget.

Cultivating executive presence for mid-career professionals is an inside job. Start with the 3 Bs: Body Language, Breathing and Beliefs, which is simply what you're telling yourself. First, imagine there's a golden thread attached to the top of your head and it's gently pulling up while your shoulders drop and your body relaxes. Then lift your chin slightly as if you're basking in the sun on a spring day. And allow a smile to form on your lips. Then take in a deep belly breath through your nose and let out a long, slow sigh. Make the exhale longer than the inhale to trigger the relaxation response. Finally, say to yourself, “I'm ok. Everything is ok.” And notice how confident you feel when you know everything is ok.

Solving a problem at the workplace helps in getting attention, boosts confidence and overall works better than visual and spoken communication skills.

One thing that would be helpful for mid career professionals is to understand strategic directions and goals of the organization and align your current work/ projects to organizations goals This can be achived by following below 1. Following company results and quarterly commentary 2. Attending townhalls of leaders 3. Keeping updated with changes in organization Mid level executives should also ask themselves the question recommended by father of management Peter Drucker " What should I contribute? " which will enable them to look at their work holistically and make them accountable for their deliverables..