How to Develop Executive Presence

This is an expert guest post by Tamara Williams from iPropelYou. 

Did you know that one in 10 people possesses the ability and talent to be a manager? However, many of those in the 10% don’t even recognize they have what it takes to be a leader. On the flip side, some are aware but do not know how to develop their potential. If you’re one of the few who recognizes such traits, now is the best time to nurture your skills. The best place to start? Work on your executive presence.  

But be advised: executive presence isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a defining element of effective leadership. It’s the unspoken confidence, clarity, and credibility that draws others in, inspires trust, and opens doors. But what does it look like in practice, and how do you develop it? 

I liken executive presence to how my granddad described “class.” He’d say, “it’s hard to describe, but easy to recognize.” I remember watching him pause before speaking, holding the room with silence alone. That was presence—quiet, certain, unforgettable.  

Leaders who embody executive presence profoundly influence organizational outcomes, extending way beyond their role’s reach—they inspire high-performing teams, shape strategic vision, and promote cultures of accountability and growth.  

Traditional leadership often emphasizes authority, decision-making, and results, whereas executive presence adds that intangible but powerful layer of how leaders make others feel when in their presence. It’s not just what you say—it’s how you show up, carry yourself, and communicate under pressure. 

Unlike conventional leadership styles that focus on managing performance or driving output, executive presence is rooted in perception. It’s about commanding attention without dominating, building trust without overexplaining, and making others feel confident in your leadership, especially in high-stakes moments.  

Why is executive presence important? 

For many professionals climbing the corporate ladder, developing presence isn’t easy. Despite possessing strong credentials and delivering impactful results, they can be overlooked when it comes to promotions, be undervalued in meetings, or feel hesitant to speak up in executive settings. These experiences erode confidence and can make one feel self-doubt. 

Psychology Today mentions that 70% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point in their lifetime. These experiences are more common than many realize, especially among high-achieving professionals who may attribute their success to luck rather than skill. This internal conflict often makes even the most capable leaders question their value.  

Executive presence is invaluable if you want successful board presentations, crisis communication, conflict resolution, negotiations, and leadership transitions. In these scenarios, your ability to project clarity, poise, and decisiveness can be the only thing that stands between gaining buy-in and losing credibility. It’s what reassures teams during uncertainty and inspires confidence when it becomes challenging to navigate change. 

Ultimately, executive presence is what turns potential into influence. It positions professionals not just to lead, but to be seen as leaders worth following. 

Developing executive presence: The 7 Cs 

Executive presence isn’t about fitting into a mold. It’s about standing tall in your own power. It’s the energy you bring into a room, how you steady a team in uncertain times, and how people remember you long after the meeting ends. It’s not just about what you say, it’s how you lead, live, and lift others as you rise. 

Now, let’s explore the 7 Cs of executive presence and how you can embody each one to lead with purpose, power, and poise. Each of these traits is not just something to admire—they’re skills you can build. Let’s break them down along with real-life executive presence examples:

1. Character – lead with integrity

Unwavering character is at the foundation of executive presence—doing what’s right, even when it’s not easy or popular. It’s the quiet consistency between your values and your actions.  

Rosalind Brewer, CEO of Walgreens and former executive at Walmart and Starbucks, exemplifies this. Throughout her career, she has led with bold integrity, advocating equity and transparency, and doing right by her teams, even when it meant challenging the status quo. Her steady leadership in moments of organizational and societal change demonstrates that character isn’t just a quality; it’s a choice we make every day.  

2. Charisma – be present, not perfect

Charisma isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room; it’s about being the most present in it. It’s the ability to make people feel seen, heard, and valued, no matter their title or background.  

Only a few people embody this trait better than Oprah Winfrey. Whether interviewing a world leader or a first-time author, Oprah has a gift for creating deep, authentic connections. Her curiosity, warmth, and empathy draw people in—not because she demands attention, but because she gives it. That’s charisma in action. It’s not about spotlighting yourself but shining a light on others.  

As a leader, your charisma will help you earn trust while encouraging openness, and create a culture where people feel emotionally safe and intensely motivated.  

3. Confidence – own your worth

Confidence isn’t arrogance or perfection; it is the quiet assurance that you belong in the room and bring value to the table. It allows leaders to make bold decisions, stand firm under pressure, and take action despite uncertainty. Think of Michelle Obama—she radiates self-assurance not by overpowering others, but by standing grounded in her identity, values, and voice.  

It is most evident in how you carry yourself during a tough conversation, advocate for your ideas in a room full of executives, and respond to challenges with resilience instead of retreating. It’s not about knowing all the answers; it’s about trusting your ability to figure it out. And when others see that belief in you, they also begin to believe more deeply in themselves.  

4. Credibility – be consistent and competent

Credibility isn’t claimed—it’s earned. It’s built by keeping one promise at a time. Consider Indra Nooyi, PepsiCo’s former CEO, who gained global respect not just for her business results but also for honoring her word, championing people-first leadership, and staying true to her convictions. Her credibility came from delivering results, making bold yet thoughtful decisions, and leading with data and heart.  

5. Connection – cultivate meaningful relationships

Leadership was never meant to be a solo performance. Connection is what turns roles into relationships and transforms hierarchy into harmony. Leaders with actual presence don’t just manage people, they see them. They take time to learn names, understand stories, and ask questions that go deeper than deadlines. They form safe spaces where others can speak, contribute, and grow. As Brené Brown so powerfully teaches, “vulnerability isn’t weakness—it’s the bridge to trust.”  

6. Composure – stay grounded in the storm

Composure is the calm in your presence that steadies others in the storm. It’s not about suppressing emotion, it’s about leading with intentionality when emotions run high. Proper composure shows up in the moments that matter most: when stakes are high, pressure is mounting, or all eyes are on you to decide what’s next. 

Consider Barack Obama, who is often praised for his steady demeanor and poise in the face of pressure. Whether addressing the nation during moments of tragedy or navigating global tensions, his calm tone and measured approach became a source of reassurance. He didn’t just lead with intellect, he led with presence. 

As a leader, your composure becomes contagious. It influences how your team handles challenges and responds to setbacks. It appears when you pause instead of reacting, breathe before speaking, and choose wisdom over urgency.  

7. Clarity – speak your vision with precision

Great leaders don’t confuse—they clarify. Clarity should be the compass that guides your decisions, fuels momentum, and keeps teams aligned when the path feels uncertain. It’s not just about having a vision, it’s about making that vision tangible, relatable, and most of all, actionable. When leaders communicate with clarity, they eliminate the guesswork and empower others to move forward confidently. 

Think of Simon Sinek, whose message about starting with “why” sparked a global movement. He didn’t just explain what to do, he gave people language for purpose, helping leaders and teams so they can connect with their mission on a deeper level. That’s what clarity does: it cuts through complexity, creates direction, and inspires aligned action. 

Clarity emerges when you define expectations clearly, provide feedback that builds rather than bruises, and articulate a vision for goals that allows others to see themselves reflected in them. Because when people know where they’re going—and why—they bring more heart, focus, and follow-through to the journey. 

Executive presence exercises: Propel your presence with practical action 

Executive presence isn’t just a concept—it’s a daily practice. You don’t develop it by chance; you cultivate it with intention. These Propel Tips are techniques designed to help you take the 7 C’s of executive presence and put them into motion for career advancement.  

Whether you’re building confidence in the workplace, deepening professional connections, or leading with more clarity and composure, each tip is a step toward becoming the kind of leader people trust, follow, and remember. You don’t need a title to lead; you need presence, which you must cultivate with purpose. 

Propel tip #1: Identify the top 3 core values that define your character 

When faced with a tough decision, ask yourself, “Which action aligns most with my values, even if it’s inconvenient?” Character is built by what you do when no one’s watching. Consistently align your words with your actions to build lasting trust and credibility. 

Authenticity is the cornerstone of executive presence. For a deeper dive into how to show up with integrity and be seen as a trusted voice in your industry, read Engage Authentically: How to Stand Out as a Thought Leader in a Crowded Market. 

Propel tip #2: Enhance charisma with active listening 

When speaking to someone, always maintain eye contact, do not interrupt, and reflect on what you’ve heard. Ask yourself, “How do people feel after interacting with me?” Use first names, never force a smile, and show sincere interest. Small, intentional gestures can leave more lasting impressions and authentic connections. 

Propel tip #3: Start a journal to increase confidence 

Each day, write down one win, a lesson learned, and how you confidently showed up. Contemplate about your personal growth to reinforce self-belief and momentum. Think, “What would I pursue if I fully trusted my ability to succeed?” Remember to speak up early in meetings or discussions to ensure your voice is heard and acknowledged. Even asking a thoughtful question or offering an insight can signal self-assurance and help display your leadership traits amongst your colleagues. 

Propel tip #4: Commit to consistent action to build credibility 

Choose one area of expertise and commit to deepening it weekly. Whether keeping yourself abreast of news and trends, mastering a new tool, or refining your message, consistency positions you as the go-to expert. Ask yourself, “What can others consistently count on me for?” Then show up in alignment with that answer, every time. 

Propel tip #5: Intentionally build connections 

Make it a goal to schedule one connection conversation each week. No agenda. No expectations. A genuine moment to listen, check in, and let someone know they matter. Ask yourself, “Who in my network, team, or community needs to feel seen, supported, or encouraged right now?” Reaching out purposefully reminds people that they’re valued, not just for what they do, but for who they are. Empathy is your superpower. Use it to create bonds that inspire loyalty and performance. 

Propel tip #6: Start a personal grounding ritual to maintain composure 

The ability to remain calm, focused, and steady in chaotic circumstances is a hallmark of executive presence. Before significant meetings, difficult conversations, or moments of high stress, try practicing the box breathing method (inhale for 4, hold for 4, then exhale for 4, and hold for another 4).  

You can also repeat an empowering mantra like, “I am steady. I am ready.” Ask yourself, “What helps me feel clear, calm, and confident when tension rises?” Is it a moment of stillness, a deep breath, a quiet affirmation, or a power posture? Identify your anchor and use it intentionally. Remember, pressure doesn’t break leaders, it reveals them.  

Propel tip #7: Write a vision statement to create clarity 

Write your vision in one sentence and share it in your next one-on-one or team meeting. Reflect, “If I only had 60 seconds to share my message, what would I say?” Lead with the “why,” then the “what,” and finish with the “how.” Clarity isn’t optional in leadership, it’s essential. Clear leaders eliminate confusion. Your clarity creates alignment. And when people are aligned, they move forward with a sense of purpose.  

Speak boldly.  

Speak intentionally.  

Speak like the leader you are becoming. 

Your leadership legacy begins with one powerful ‘C’ 

Executive presence isn’t reserved for executives. It’s a mindset and a message that says, “I’m ready to lead, to serve, and to grow.” Leaders play a central role in shaping workplace culture, guiding important decisions, and inspiring others to reach their highest potential. When leaders show up with presence, they model clarity, courage, and resilience—qualities that can shape their team’s determination, retention, and innovation. 

That’s why cultivating executive presence is essential not just to lead others but to for people to also believe in your right to lead. By speaking with clarity, showing up confidently, and staying authentic, you’ll inspire others to follow your lead, and you can feel proud of the leader you’re becoming. 

Be patient. Executive presence doesn’t happen instantaneously—it’s cultivated gradually with one decision, one interaction, and one intentional moment at a time. Whether stepping into leadership or sharpening your edge, focus on just one ‘C’ this week. Reflect, practice, and notice how your presence begins to shift. 

When you show up with intention, you don’t just command attention—you create transformation: 

• You stop leading to impress and start leading to impact.  
• You stop asking for permission and start owning your place.  
• You permit others to rise because you’ve chosen to elevate yourself.  
• Your presence becomes a catalyst, not just for productivity, but for possibility. 

Build presence that propels 

Executive presence is cultivated by professionals ready to lead with clarity, confidence, and authenticity, regardless of their stage in their journey. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being intentional. Because presence isn’t just how the world sees you—it’s how you choose to show up not only for yourself but for others, too. 

Begin leading from a place of power, not pressure. Transform meetings into moments, roles into influence, and effort into elevation. Master next-level leadership with presence, on purpose. 

So, which ‘C’ will you work on this week?