I’ve been working with a senior leader recently who is learning to expand his executive presence. Like many leaders, he’s confident in his work, but when it comes to networking events or larger meetings, he finds himself holding back—especially when it comes to starting conversations or sharing personal stories.

This is a common challenge for introverted leaders: the spotlight feels uncomfortable, and conversations can feel flat or transactional. The good news? Executive presence in these settings isn’t about dominating a room—it’s about creating genuine connection. And that can be learned.

Here are the tools and strategies I teach my clients to help them feel safe, confident, and generous in how they show up with others.

1. Anchor Your Nervous System Before You Enter the Room

Executive presence starts on the inside. If your nervous system is in “fight or flight,” it will show up in your posture, tone, and energy.

• Grounding Breath: Inhale for 4 counts, hold for 2, exhal

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This is a good question! Why? Because no one wants to fail when they're presenting in front of an audience. What often happens is when you get nervous or anxious, your voice will get monotone. Monotone kills presentations.

Here's an easy exercise that will help bring more life and engagement to your speech or presentation: Turn on the TV or YouTube. Find someone you think is a good speaker. Now watch her with the sound off. Notice the facial expressions, where her hands are, how she's standing, what her face looks like when she's talking AND when she's not talking. Then with the sound on, close your eyes and just listen to her. How does she pace her sentences? What's her voice like? Does she vary her tone?

DO rehearse out loud
DON'T sound canned or monotone
DO write how you talk when you create your speech
DON'T worry about flubs - it makes you human.

Have questions? Want to work with me? Email me at [email protected]