Leadership presence: what is it?

Graham Andrewartha| Director| MCA group

I was coaching Sam, a senior accountant who had been working at his accounting firm for years. He was concerned that despite his great work he received little recognition from either their clients or his boss. In listening to Sam describe those times he felt most overlooked, a pattern emerged where his body language indicated indecision, his voice displayed upward inflection, and his words were weakened by ‘perhaps’ and ‘sort of’. After six months of work, and seeding some tactics with him he felt much more noticed.  In his next review his boss decided to promote him.

Leadership presence is an elusive concept that many business leaders strive for. It can be difficult to define, but is a key factor in successful management and leadership. It is not the same as charisma or confidence; rather, it is composed of the knowledge, attitude, and behavior of someone in a position of authority. Leadership presence requires more than just technical knowledge; it takes a combination of qualities and traits to be taken seriously as a leader. See how we approach leadership presence.

Leadership presence is like a lighthouse beacon in the dark; it stands out and guides those around it to new and innovative solutions.

Benefits of Developing Leadership Presence

Leaders with strong leadership presence inspire confidence. They have the ability to motivate and encourage a team to reach their goals and succeed. Employees want to work for leaders that provide a sense of security, stability and safety to them, and those who are present and in control of the situation. Leaders who have strong leadership presence are often seen as more trustworthy, and this makes them more credible. The sense of trustworthiness creates a positive relationship between the leader and other members of the organisation. Leaders with strong leadership presence inspire others to feel comfortable in their presence.

Leadership presence is an important factor in determining the success of a leader. It encompasses both physical attributes and intangible qualities that can be developed and honed over time. Leadership presence has been defined as having the ability to project a strong presence, even when not physically present, or creating a lasting impression that motivates and inspires others. Leaders with strong leadership presence are often seen as strong, trustworthy, credible, and confident. They are visible, even when not in the room. The leader must be able to communicate, motivate and inspire others in a way that creates a positive relationship.

How to Demonstrate Leadership Presence in the Workplace:

1. Speak with Confidence. Your voice is very important when demonstrating leadership presence. Be sure to project your voice so that no one in the audience misses what you are saying.

2. Have a Sense of Purpose. If you aren’t passionate about what you are saying, then you will not have the charisma and confidence needed to lead an audience.

3. Have the Right Attitude. Your attitude is the emotional component of your leadership presence. The key is to use an upbeat tone of voice and a positive attitude.

4. Dress for the Occasion. Covid dressing is past, dress professionally.

5. Be Confident. Your confidence in your abilities will be seen by everyone else and will help you to lead people into action.

6. Be Open to New Things. Be willing to accept suggestions from others, especially when they will benefit you.

7. Be a Good Listener. Being a good listener helps you to get better at communicating with others, especially since people like a leader who listens well.

Brene Brown in Dare to Lead, says, “I define a leader as anyone who takes responsibility for finding the potential in people and processes, and who has the courage to develop that potential.”

To discuss with us how you can be more visible, call or email us on 1300 856 480 or people@mca-group.com.au.