Your Presence Speaks Before You Do

Your Presence Speaks Before You Do

What’s the first thing people notice about you in a meeting?

It’s not your title. It’s not even your voice.

It’s your presence.

Let’s be honest—walking into a room full of confident voices and sharp suits can feel intimidating. Have you ever caught yourself shrinking into your seat or avoiding eye contact, hoping to make yourself invisible?

Here’s the thing: People start forming opinions about your leadership the moment you enter a room—often before you’ve said a word. Your body language, tone, and eye contact are doing the talking for you. Are they saying what you want them to say?

If not, let’s change that.


Why Presence Matters

Lack of executive presence isn’t just a "nice-to-have" gap. It’s the invisible wall standing between you and the recognition your expertise deserves.

Without it, your brilliant ideas might go unnoticed. Your voice might be overshadowed. And your impact might be minimized, even in spaces you’ve worked so hard to enter.

But when you master executive presence?

You command attention. You inspire trust. You drive decisions.


Small Shifts, Big Impact

Here are three powerful (and simple!) ways to turn up the volume on your presence—no shouting required:

1?? Posture Speaks Volumes: Start meetings by sitting or standing tall, with your shoulders relaxed but strong. Think of it as your "ready stance." Not only will you look more confident, but you’ll feel it too.

2?? Your Voice, Your Power: Lower your vocal pitch just slightly—this conveys calm authority. Bonus tip: Pause for a beat after key points to let them sink in. Silence can be just as powerful as words.

3?? Look, Don’t Glance: When speaking, make direct eye contact with key decision-makers. It builds connection and trust faster than you’d think.

These aren’t complicated strategies. But they are transformative.


The Real Secret to Presence

Here’s what I’ve learned: Presence isn’t about being the loudest person in the room.

It’s about showing up like you belong there—because you do.

It’s about aligning your non-verbal cues with the confidence you already have inside.

Imagine walking into your next meeting and watching the energy shift. People lean in. They’re hanging on to your every word.

That’s the power of presence. And it’s entirely within your reach.


Ask Yourself: Am I sending the right message before I even speak?

If not, let today be the day you decide to change that.


Curious about how to take your presence from "subtle" to "show-stopping"? Let’s chat! I’d love to explore tailored strategies to amplify your leadership impact. You’ve got this—and I’ve got your back. You can grab a time on my calendar here.


Angela Wilson

Best Selling Author, International Speaker, and Whole Wealth Coach

2 个月

Love this article Jen Coken. You mentioned the tips are simple however I can see how impactful they can be. I love lowering your pitch just a bit to give calm authority. And the power of the pause. It is so impactful when speaking. Great read… thank you.

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Dr. Debra Clary

Leading Curiosity Expert | TEDx Speaker | LinkedIn Top Voice | Global Keynote & Event Emcee | Published Author

2 个月

Great article, Jen! I totally agree that presence is key to effective leadership. I'm going to try working on my eye contact and posture to project more confidence in my next meeting. Thanks for the tips! Keep up the great work empowering women in leadership. #WomenInSTEM #LeadershipDevelopment #JenCoken #ProfessionalGrowth #EmpoweringWomen #LeadershipCoaching #PersonalGrowth

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Amy Collette

? The Book Alchemist for Soul-full Leaders ? Book Writing Coach ? Publishing Consultant ? Speaker ? Author

2 个月

I love your tips about posture, voice, and eye contact, Jen Coken. They say so much about who you are and how you operate in the world. Thank you for sharing your insights. ?

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Sabrina Victoria

Unite women in business. Empower success through sales mastery, networking and confidence building. Let's Chat, DM me to set up a call.

2 个月

It's incredible how much our presence can impact the way we’re perceived as leaders.?

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