by Anishametra Saravanan 

We’ve all encountered that person who always seems to radiate an intangible quality — an aura of gravitas that captivates everyone in the room. They exude confidence and effortlessly guide conversations, swaying opinions with their mere presence.  

Conversely, we’ve also seen someone who, despite being highly skilled and knowledgeable, struggles to make an impact or garner support for their good ideas.  

At its core, executive presence is more than just expertise; it’s the art of motivating and inspiring others through your presence. You’ll know you have executive presence if you possess these qualities:

Great listening is essential to effective leadership. Leaders who excel in this skill stay attuned to their team’s concerns, which fosters open communication and trust. By actively listening and addressing feedback thoughtfully, you enhance your presence and build stronger relationships with your teammates. 

One could say that delivering bad news is a true test of leadership. While sharing good news is straightforward, handling difficult messages with empathy requires skill. Empathetic communication, even in tough situations, strengthens your credibility and builds stronger relationships with your team.  

Your body language can project confidence and impact how others perceive you. Even if you’re not entirely confident yet, adopting strong body language can enhance your presence and boost your self-perception. Remember, sometimes you need to “fake it till you make it” to truly embody executive presence. 

A strong, clear voice not only grabs attention but also instills confidence in your audience. Practice speaking from your diaphragm to project your voice with resonance and clarity. Even if you’re nervous, focus on projecting your voice with strength as it can enhance your presence and make you seem more authoritative.  

Integrity is fundamental to a strong executive presence. It demands depth, fortitude, and the commitment to honour your promises. Just as YTL’s core values guide and define us, integrity acts as our compass, steering us toward what is right and true. 

Even under pressure, maintaining professionalism is crucial in ensuring your team can rely on you during the toughest of times. This journey demands steadfast commitment but with consistent effort, you will develop a presence that inspires and leads others to greatness.