What are the best ways to develop leadership presence as an adult learner?

3 Develop your communication skills

One of the key aspects of leadership presence is communication skills, which include verbal, non-verbal, and written communication. You should develop your communication skills to convey your message clearly, confidently, and persuasively, while also listening actively, empathizing, and building rapport with your audience. You should also pay attention to your body language, tone of voice, eye contact, and facial expressions, as they can enhance or undermine your leadership presence. You can practice your communication skills by seeking feedback, rehearsing, recording, or joining public speaking groups or courses.

4 Cultivate your emotional intelligence

Another essential component of leadership presence is emotional intelligence, which is the ability to understand and manage your own emotions and those of others. You should cultivate your emotional intelligence to demonstrate self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills. These skills will help you cope with stress, handle conflict, motivate yourself and others, and build trust and collaboration. You can improve your emotional intelligence by reflecting on your feelings, journaling, meditating, or working with a coach or a mentor.

5 Showcase your competence and credibility

A third factor that influences your leadership presence is your competence and credibility, which are based on your knowledge, skills, experience, and reputation. You should showcase your competence and credibility by delivering results, solving problems, learning new things, and sharing your expertise. You should also seek feedback, acknowledge your mistakes, and take responsibility for your actions. By doing so, you will demonstrate your value, confidence, and integrity, and earn the respect and recognition of others.

6 Align your actions with your values

The final step to developing leadership presence is to align your actions with your values , which means being consistent, authentic, and ethical in your behavior. You should align your actions with your values by following your vision and goals, communicating your purpose and values, and making decisions that reflect your principles and standards. You should also be open, honest, and transparent, and express your opinions and emotions in a respectful and appropriate way. By doing so, you will show your character, courage, and commitment, and inspire others to follow your lead.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?