Episode Summary
In this episode of Mondays with Mike, host Mike Staver tackles the practical and essential question: how does a new leader build presence and confidence in meetings? Drawing on his coaching expertise, Mike shares clear, actionable advice designed to help leaders close the gap between intention and execution when it comes to executive presence.
He begins by outlining several physical fundamentals—walking in with shoulders back, head up, and eyes forward—to instantly convey confidence. Mike emphasizes the importance of eye contact, greeting people, and carrying oneself with “humble authority.” He warns against both casual indifference and cocky swagger, noting that true presence is about communicating you belong in the room without arrogance. He also points out that presence is not just about dress but about demeanor; even a casually dressed leader can own the room through the way they carry themselves.
For those who really struggle, Mike Staver suggests seeking structured support, such as webinars or professional coaching, and reiterates that executive presence relies on clear, direct communication as much as body language. Ultimately, he encourages listeners to approach building presence as both an attitude and a set of skills that can be developed with practice and honest feedback.
Key Takeaways
- Executive presence starts with how you physically enter a room: shoulders back, head up, eyes forward.
- Greet others and make eye contact to convey “humble authority”—you belong, but you’re not arrogant.
- Avoid casual indifference (e.g., setting up your computer or looking at your phone right away) and cocky swagger.
- Presence is about attitude and interaction, not just clothing or title.
- Clear, direct communication further supports your presence and leadership in meetings.
Notable Quotes
- “When you walk into a room, you need your shoulders back, head up, eyes forward.”
- “Make eye contact and greet people…with humble authority.”
- “Don’t walk in like you’re full of swagger, but walk in like you belong there.”
- “One way you can build presence is to have the confidence to exert yourself… acknowledge there might be some things you’d like some help with.”
Mike Staver is the CEO and Founder of The Staver Group, a proven leadership development firm dedicated to improving organizational performance by closing the gap between intentions and execution. To learn more about working with Mike and The Staver Group, email info@mikestaver.com.
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