Art Sponseller, JD, PCC, Senior Executive Coach, www.artsponseller.com
You can develop executive presence. No special talent required. Use these simple practices every day.
Act Confident – and You Will Become Confident
Pretend you already radiate confidence. Your body and mind follow. Soon the feeling becomes real.
Keep an Open Physical Appearance
Avoid crossing your arms. Use open gestures instead. This makes you look approachable and strong.
Stand Tall and Square
Stand erect with both feet flat. Place feet shoulder-width apart.
Square your body to the person you’re speaking with.
Hold Your Head Level
Keep your chin parallel to the ground. Head straight – no tilting. This shows calm authority.
Smile and Hold Eye Contact
Smile when appropriate. Maintain steady, warm eye contact.
It builds instant trust and connection.
Use Open Gestures
Keep hands relaxed at your sides. Gesture with open palms.
Match gestures to your message for clarity.
Sit with an Open Posture
Keep your torso open. Avoid crossed arms or legs. Keep your hands on the table. Stay engaged and confident.
Start Small
Practice one habit, till it feels natural, then add another, repeat. These changes boost how others see you. Executive presence is a skill – and it’s learnable.
