5 G.R.E.A.T. Traits of Executive Presence

Executive Presence has long been hailed as a crucial trait for leaders, often described as the "x factor" or an intangible quality that's easy to recognise but hard to define. Traditionally, the "7 C's of Executive Presence"—composure, confidence, credibility, communication, connection, clarity, and charisma—served as the standard definition. However, as the workplace evolves and societal values shift, it’s clear that what defines executive presence must adapt as well.

The COVID-19 pandemic and digital transformation have reshaped work environments, leading to the adoption of remote work, hybrid meetings, and flexible work arrangements. These changes have introduced new challenges and expectations for leaders. Traditional markers of executive presence are being re-evaluated as leaders struggle to balance rigidity with flexibility. Mixed messages from leaders about policies and adaptability have become more common, reflecting the growing need for a revised approach to leadership.

The 5 G.R.E.A.T. Traits of Executive Presence

To stay relevant, executive presence must evolve beyond the traditional 7 C's. These are the 5 G.R.E.A.T. Traits that we believe reflect contemporary leadership needs - Genuine, Resilient, Empathetic, Aligned, Together:

1. Being Genuine  in a Virtual World

In a virtual world, being genuine has become more important than charisma for leaders. While charisma once meant commanding a room with presence, the shift to online meetings has changed leadership dynamics. Authentic leaders—those who are genuine and transparent—build trust more effectively in remote settings. Virtual interactions minimise non-verbal cues. In a Zoom meeting, for instance, a leader’s sincerity and openness can be more impactful than a polished, charismatic presentation. Teams are more likely to connect with leaders who are real and relatable, fostering loyalty and trust in a way that charisma alone can't achieve in a digital environment.

2. Being Resilient in an Uncertain World

In an uncertain world, resilient adaptability often surpasses clarity. While clarity is important for guiding teams, resilience allows leaders to navigate rapidly changing circumstances effectively and to lead through ambiguity. In unpredictable situations, the ability to pivot and adjust strategies is crucial for addressing new challenges and seizing emerging opportunities. Resilient leaders who emphasise adaptability are better equipped to guide their teams through uncertainty, whereas an over focus on rigid clarity can limit flexibility and responsiveness. Leaders who make bold statements about the future during times of uncertainty may believe they are demonstrating strong leadership and providing reassurance to their teams. However, such statements can backfire if they reflect a misreading of the situation. Instead of instilling confidence, these leaders risk undermining their broader credibility by appearing out of touch or overly optimistic, which can erode trust and damage their ability to lead effectively in the long term.

3. Being Empathetic in a Time of Crisis

In times of crisis, empathy often takes precedence over confidence for leaders. While confidence can inspire, it’s empathy that truly connects with people during challenging times. In a crisis, employees need leaders who understand their struggles and show genuine concern for their well-being. Leaders who demonstrate empathy foster a supportive environment, making their teams feel valued and heard. This approach builds trust and resilience, which are crucial for navigating uncertainty. In contrast, leaders who rely solely on projecting confidence may appear out of touch, missing the opportunity to create meaningful connections and provide the support their teams need most.

4. Being Aligned in Remote Working

In remote and hybrid work settings, being aligned and purpose-driven often outweighs mere connection. While maintaining connections is important, being aligned on a clear and compelling purpose motivates teams, even when working apart. Leaders who emphasise purpose inspire commitment and direction, and help teams stay engaged and focused on shared goals. In contrast, focusing solely on connection can lead to disengagement and a lack of direction. For instance, an organisation that prioritises regular virtual social events to foster connection among employees may find that, despite a short-term increased sense of well-being, employees still fail to grasp sustained motivation and direction towards the organisation's mission. 

5. Being Together in Diverse Teams

In diverse teams, the inclusivity of being together often outweighs composure. While composure helps maintain calm, emphasising togetherness ensures that all team members feel valued and heard. Leaders who prioritise inclusivity actively seek to understand and embrace diverse perspectives, fostering a more collaborative and equitable environment. This approach builds trust and engagement across different backgrounds and experiences, which is crucial for effective teamwork. In contrast, an overemphasis on composure might overlook the importance of creating an inclusive culture, potentially leading to disengagement and missed opportunities for diverse input. Leaders must ensure that all voices are heard, regardless of location or background. This evolution reflects a broader societal push towards diversity and inclusion, which is a "must-have" in leadership today.

Embracing the Future of Executive Presence

As the workplace evolves, so too do the qualities that define executive presence. Today's leaders face the challenge of blending the traditional 7 C's with contemporary values. The digital and societal shifts of recent years have shone a light on the fact that traditional attributes of executive presence are no longer fit for the modern workplace. The 5 G.R.E.A.T. Traits of Executive Presence now stand as the crucial attributes for any forward-thinking leader.