How to Become a Respected Leader

 

Naturally, we all want to present ourselves in the best light possible. Having a stellar reputation among colleagues increases your credibility and opens many doors for you. What you do, wear, and say are all conscious decisions that send a message about you. Here's how to cultivate executive presence:

Appearance. Every industry has its own code; one size certainly does not fit all. Regardless of how casual your place of work seems, set yourself apart by looking polished and put together. Model your look after the rising leaders of your organization.

Communication. Shrill tones suggest you feel offended, ignored, or wronged. Silence your shrillness by removing emotions from the equation. Over-prepare for meetings to feel confident and be concise. Prepare beyond the conference room as well. Be sure you are conversant in headline topics such as sports and politics to establish personal connections.

Gravitas. When you know you're right, don't hold back! Have faith in yourself. Lynn Utter remembers the meeting that won her serious attention and the support of leaders. At a board gathering, a discussion quickly dissolved into squabbling. Utter spoke up and laid out her case. Later on, a board member commented, "I had no idea who you were, but in that moment you showed you had what it takes."

Adapted from (Forget a Mentor) Find a Sponsor: The New Ways to Fast-Track Your Career, Sylvia Ann Hewlett, Harvard Business Review Press, 2013.