The Luau Dancer With [Executive] Presence

I went to Hawaii for the first time in January. One night, we happened upon a Luau on Waikiki beach. I had an unexpected takeaway.

I squinted to get a better look at the dancer on the left. Something about her was different.

Both dancers moved in perfect harmony—both skilled. Both talented. Both in total synch. But that one on the left. She just had this "thing." (video at bottom of post)

I couldn't take my eyes off her - she held me captive.

She's not an executive in this moment, so it's not fair to say this is a spot on example of "Executive Presence." But it IS, as my dear friend Eleni Kelakos, CSP would say, Charismatic Presence.

Executive Presence = Charismatic Presence

It was subtle yet undeniable. I couldn’t quite pin it down, but it struck me as so very similar to what we call “executive presence” in the professional world.

We want to borrow some qualities from her and infuse them into the executive realm.

Five Qualities of the Dancer’s Presence

1. Authentic, JOYFUL Energy: Her smile and gestures were genuine, not rehearsed.
2. A Commanding Confidence: Every step radiated assurance. She owned the stage.
3. Magnetic Connection: She loved dancing.She was practically floating in her zone of briliance.
4. Effortless Grace: Her skill looked natural, not forced—pure flow.
5. Bold Individuality: Somehow, she infused her unique flair, standing out while staying in sync.

She had an elusive quality that sets certain leaders apart, even among peers with equal competence. This dancer wasn’t just performing; she commanded the space with an electric, charismatic presence - which, importantly, the equally skilled dancer on the right didn’t possess in the same way.

Ok great. But what's the point?

Well -- What about you as a leader? How can we adopt this in your professional life?

Five Ways Executives Can Cultivate a "Luau-like Presence"

1. Self-Assurance: Notice those who carry themselves with quiet certainty—do you project the same? This comes in the way of posture, eye gaze, and dress most immediately.
2. Genuineness: Be real. Be human. Tell personal stories. Seek authenticity in words and actions; share a piece of yourself.
3. Direct yet polished: Say what you mean, and mean what you say -- and do so with a blend of head, heart, and empathy.
4. Listening Skills: Listen to understand. Aim to connect deeply with others—are you truly present in conversations?
5. Warmth: Make people FEEL respected, heard and welcome in your presence. It doesn't matter what your personality style is, we can all level up on this if we try. And it's worth it. You'll be remembered for this many years in the future.

On our podcast, I ask -- "Who Is a person you would tip your hat to if given the chance right now? Someone who might not know they formed you or directed you in an important direction, but they did?"

THAT is executive presence. That's one of my favorite questions for guests, I just love their answers - it's the "heart" of the podcast. (click here to subscribe)

What's your answer to that? Who has shown you executive presence along your path? Let this post remind us all that we're always being observed by others, and we want to be observed so that we're making others feel good.

This week, take a moment to observe the “dancer on the left” in your workplace—or better yet, step into that role yourself.

Ready to level up yourself or your team from "You 1.0" to "You 2.0?" DM me today. That's what we do for leaders in science, technology and innovation, year after year after year.

#podcast #executivepresence #presentationskills #leadership #innovation #charismaticpresence #style #communications