Are you really giving off the best version of yourself in meetings?
- March 6, 2018
Business When was the last time you entered a board room and felt that something was just not right? That feeling inside, that you were missing something? That feeling may be due to a lack of executive presence you experienced. Executive presence in meetings can be seen in the manner you control or own a room, the lasting impressions you create for yourself and the impact your way of communication has.
As a side note, owning a room does not mean outshining those of a higher rank than you and certanily does not mean coming across as brash.
So how can you develop and master executive presence in your future meetings? How do you put forward the best version of yourself?
1. The best version of yourself
Ensuring that your appearance and the way you carry yourself flawlessly, or at least close to, has a positive impact on how others perceive you. A question I am frequently asked is whether one must always wear business formal attire to leave a lasting impression. The answer is no because it depends on a number of factors – who will be attending the meeting, who will be chairing it, where is it going to be held and what is your role in the company, among others. Whatever dress code the company adopts always make sure you look put together.
2. Be prepared for the meeting
Preparation is key. Know the objective of the meeting and think about any questions that may come up so that you are always ready with a well thought-out response. To bring out the best version of yourself, you need to master the skills of being poised and collected during heated arguments. If you are nervous or anxious, simply take a few minutes before going in to take some deep breaths and to see that you are not looking flustered.
3. Non-verbal cues – Your body language
Have you ever noticed how others are sitting around a board room table? People who are anxious and shy tend to close off themselves by crossing their legs and arms. They may also be hunched over the table portraying a lack of self confidence and certainly a lack of executive presence. So as a start, keep in mind – your posture by sitting straight, good eye contact and an attentive approach by leaning slightly forward especially when facing someone who is talking or presenting.
4. Speak – Without hesitation
Express your views and your opinions on ideas being discussed without feeling intimidated by others. Speak up – clearly and loud enough so everyone can hear you. Have sound justification for your arguments and don’t hold yourself back. If you are present at a meeting and feel that your role is simply to observe, then do so and keep the above tips mentioned here in mind. Executive presence is also achieved by controlling ourselves – not talking over others, learning to listen and not dominating the conversation.
The best version of yourself is achieved with
1. How you act
2. How you speak and
3. How you look
Good luck for the next one.
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