For years, executive presence meant fitting a specific mold, but that’s no longer the case. In this episode, Karin Reed shares how authenticity in communication can bolster your executive presence.
Karin outlines five key strategies for integrating authentic communication into leadership to enhance executive presence. First, she emphasizes being a whole person, not just a job title, sharing anecdotes that provide a window into one’s personal life which can make leaders more relatable. Second, she advises leaders to “listen to learn” rather than “talk to tell,” quoting Wilfred Bion on the purest form of listening without preconceived notions or agendas. The third strategy is to speak in plain, simple language to ensure clear communication and comprehension, rather than trying to impress with an extensive vocabulary. Fourth, Karin encourages leaders to give themselves grace for verbal missteps, sharing humorous personal experiences to illustrate that everyone makes mistakes when they speak. Lastly, she emphasizes the importance of owning one’s expertise while being humble enough to admit when they don’t know something, fostering a culture of psychological safety within the team.
Karin leaves listeners with a powerful takeaway: authentic leadership is more valued today than ever before. By speaking from the heart and prioritizing genuine connections, leaders can enhance their executive presence and inspire their teams more effectively.
