Have you ever noticed how some people can walk into a room and their leadership presence instantly commands respect without saying a word?
That’s because having a strong presence is not just about what they say, but how they carry themselves. It’s what helps you build trust, earn respect, and lead with confidence.
But the good news is, presence isn’t something you’re just born with—it’s a skill you can develop.
Why Presence Is Important
When I first started as a leadership consultant, I had no idea how much presence mattered. I’d walk into meetings with senior leaders, totally unprepared, and I could see it in their faces—they’d check out almost immediately.
After a few too many of these awkward moments, I knew I had to change. If I wanted people to take me seriously, I had to show up with confidence, be clear about my purpose, and prove that I could lead—even with experienced leaders in the room.
I realized that presence is important because it’s the only thing people have to judge your ability to lead, even before you speak. When done right, it helps you gain trust and credibility, while shaping the way others see you from the very start.
But, where do you even start?
3 Ways to Build Leadership Presence
Here are three easy ways I learned to step up and make a real impact.
1. Show Up Prepared and With a Purpose
The first thing I had to learn was how to show up prepared. When you walk into a meeting with a clear plan, people notice. They sit up and pay attention.
Being prepared not only shows that you respect your team’s time, but it also gives you the confidence to handle any unexpected questions or challenges that come your way.
So, before your next meeting, take a few minutes to jot down the purpose of the meeting, the main points you want to cover, and your goals. By doing this, you’ll have a simple roadmap that helps you feel more in control and lead with confidence.
2. Speak Clearly and With Confidence
When I first started, I used to hold back, worried I’d sound unsure. But I quickly realized that how you say something is just as important as what you say.
Speaking clearly and with confidence shows others that you believe in yourself and your ideas. If you trust your own voice, others are more likely to trust you as a leader too.
To get better at this, practice speaking slowly and clearly. If you’re nervous and tend to rush, try pausing between your thoughts. It’ll help you stay calm and keep everyone focused on what you’re saying.
3. Be Fully Present
When I first started, I often made the mistake of letting my mind wander during conversations. I’d think about the next meeting or what I was going to say, instead of focusing on the moment.
People can tell when you’re really paying attention. Being fully present shows others that you value what they’re saying, which builds trust and respect.
In meetings, put your phone or laptop away and focus on the conversation. Listen actively and give the speaker your full attention. It makes a huge difference in how people feel about working with you.
By showing up prepared, speaking with confidence, and being fully present, you’ll command attention and gain respect as a leader.
Conclusion
Building presence takes time, but it’s something you can work on and is worth the effort. Remember, leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about how you carry yourself and how others feel working with you.
Start practicing these steps today, and watch how quickly your leadership presence grows. You’ve got this!
