Develop the Invisible Crown of Executive Presence

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First impressions can truly make or break you. They can be the deciding factor on whether or not you get that job, or land that deal; these split-second decisions can alter the course of entire companies or careers. According to research, people make first impressions in as little as 1/10th of a second…you don’t really have time to “make an impression.” In truth, you are likely nurturing whatever opinion they already made.

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I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard, “Something didn’t feel right about him,” after someone went to make a deal or hire—and they honor that. I’m sure you’ve experienced it yourself. High-level operators are usually smart enough to trust their gut—and the impression that happens in the blink of an eye—over almost anything you’re going to bring to the table. 

What another person reads from you in those seconds matters, and so many competent people get it wrong. 

Executive presence isn’t just about the right clothes or firm handshakes—though these can be important—it’s the ability to inspire confidence and make others believe in you and your ability. It's the secret sauce that turns managers into leaders and helps some entrepreneurs get the partnerships they need to build extraordinary things. 

But here's the kicker: While some executive presence can be innate, it’s also a skill that can be developed, honed, and mastered. And for those willing to put in the work, the rewards pay off in spades. 

Here’s why executive presence matters, and how to build a bit of it yourself.