The three dimensions

Gravitas (~67% of executive presence)

Confidence without arrogance. Composure under pressure. Decisiveness. The ability to command a room. This is the biggest factor—and the hardest to fake.

Communication (~28%)

Speaking clearly and concisely. Active listening. The ability to read the room. Commanding attention with your voice and words.

Appearance (~5%)

Looking polished and appropriate. Not about attractiveness—about grooming, dress, and physical composure. It matters less than people think, but it still matters.

Why it matters

→It's a prerequisite for leadership. Research shows that executive presence is rated as essential for senior roles by 81% of senior leaders.
→It opens doors. People with presence get invited to meetings, considered for opportunities, and taken seriously faster.
→It creates influence. Presence makes people want to follow you, not because of your title, but because of how you show up.

How to develop executive presence

1Master composure. Breathe, pause, don't react emotionally. Calm confidence is the core of gravitas.
2Speak with conviction. Avoid hedging ("I think maybe..."). State your view clearly. Own your position.
3Be concise. Rambling undermines presence. Say what you mean in fewer words.
4Control your body language. Stand/sit tall, make eye contact, use open gestures, avoid fidgeting.
5Prepare thoroughly. Confidence comes from competence. Know your material cold.

Practice high-stakes situations. Skillbase lets you rehearse presenting to executives, handling tough questions, and maintaining composure under pressure.

Try executive presence scenarios

Key takeaways

✓ Gravitas (how you act) is the largest component
✓ Composure and confidence are core to presence
✓ Speak with conviction, avoid hedging
✓ Preparation builds the confidence presence requires
✓ Executive presence can be developed with practice

Executive presence: the complete guide

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