Understanding the Role of Gravitas in Leadership
While many traits make an effective executive, from charismatic personalities and fearless attitudes to understanding their strengths and weaknesses, there is no set stereotypical executive. Yet, although many facets make a standout executive, many leaders today are raising questions on the role of gravitas in gaining trust and recognition and boosting one’s career. Some executive curiosities are: How does it work? How long does it take to develop? And can anyone develop it?
Practical Techniques to Enhance Your Gravitas
The good news is that while building gravitas may be a slow process, it is not impossible. Taking the time and effort to learn these easy techniques, which you can use in everyday meetings, presentations, and conversations, can help boost your gravitas game.
1. Demonstrate that you come well-prepared: Showcasing your knowledge and expertise helps build trust and gain recognition, and there is no better way to do this than staying up-to-date on the latest trends and developments. Staying prepared and capable of sharing statistics, case studies, research, and experience helps establish you as a subject matter expert and may lead to growth in your career.
2. Share your intention: Strong leaders and communicators always make sure to convey intentionality, and one of the best ways to do this is, at the start of a meeting, to let people know what value you aim to provide and what your ultimate goal is by the end of your presentation. This action creates the framework for people to listen to and follow you on your journey.
3. Use body language: An effective executive knows that more than words matter. Relaxed but energized body language shows others that you are in command and positions you as someone to take notice of. Some ways to build your gravitas through body language are steady eye contact and an upright posture.
4. Moderate your pacing: Some of the world’s best speakers understand the value of taking their time, refusing to give into fear, racing through their presentations, and avoiding being too slow. Pacing requires understanding the sweet spot that helps keep audiences engaged; it is a blend of speeds and pauses, allowing audiences to assimilate your information.
5. Focus on your breathing: One way to assist your speaking pacing and calm your nerves is through slow, deep breaths. This form of breathing helps slow your heart rate and relax your neck, shoulders, torso, and dozens of facial muscles. When your energy is at ease, you can help put those in the room at ease as well.
6. Craft stories and anecdotes: Humans are natural storytellers, and this makes a well-crafted story powerful. Stories can be an effective way to compel audiences while allowing you to feel more confident in your presentations. Stories and putting a personal spin on anecdotes help people relate to you and help make your strategy or point become more vivid, ultimately strengthening your message.
7. Use leadership language: It is not always what you say that matters, but how you say it. Effective executives carefully consider the words they use, using language that reflects their expertise and highlights their passion.
