Ben is back and he is sharing his thoughts on Executive Presence and how you can improve yours.  Ben and his team at Benchmark Training help sales professionals and leaders improve their skills each and every day.  This week, we're talking about something that doesn't get a lot of press and many believe it is just something you have, or you don't.  Ben would argue that it is a skill that can be learned and refined with effort and practice.  

Executive presence is a crucial skill for leaders. It’s about inspiring confidence in others, whether subordinates, peers, or senior leaders. Here are seven key steps to build and enhance your own executive presence:

1. Have a Vision: Articulate a compelling vision appropriate for your level of seniority. Communicate it flawlessly in any situation.
2. Understand Perception: Be aware of how others perceive you. As you ascend to more senior levels, understanding this becomes increasingly important.
3. Gravitas: Cultivate a sense of authority, poise, and confidence. Project calmness under pressure.
4. Effective Communication: Master the art of clear, concise communication. Adapt your message to different audiences.
5. Authenticity: Be genuine and true to yourself. Authenticity builds trust and credibility.
6. Inclusiveness: Foster collaboration and create an inclusive environment. Value diverse perspectives.
7. Respect: Show respect for others’ opinions and contributions. Treat everyone with dignity.