Executive Presence in Leadership: How I Communicate Confidence, Stability, and Vision Across Campus and Community

One of the most important — and least discussed — elements of senior leadership is executive presence. It’s not about personality or theatrics. It’s about how you show up in a room, how people feel when you speak, and how your presence either calms uncertainty or intensifies it. Over the course of my leadership career, I’ve learned that executive presence is not a trait you’re born with — it’s something you cultivate intentionally.

For me, executive presence begins with composure. Institutions face stressful moments: budget challenges, competitive pressures, personnel issues, public scrutiny, student concerns, or unexpected transitions. In those moments, people look to the leader to understand how they should feel. When a leader remains steady, thoughtful, and confident, teams draw strength from that energy. I’ve always made it a priority to be a calm voice, especially when the institution is navigating uncertainty.

Another key part of presence is clarity. Leaders with strong presence can simplify complex issues and communicate them in ways people can understand. Whether I am speaking with a board member, a student-athlete, a coach, a donor, or a faculty leader, I aim to communicate the message without unnecessary complexity. Clarity builds trust. Confusion creates distance.

Listening also shapes executive presence. People trust leaders who hear them — not leaders who talk over them. When I meet with staff or students, I focus on understanding their concerns, not just preparing my response. Listening communicates humility and respect, and it strengthens relationships across campus.

Visibility is another essential part of presence. Leaders must show up — not just behind closed doors but in hallways, meetings, events, and interactions that shape the culture of the institution. I make it a point to attend games, visit practices, engage with staff meetings, show up at campus gatherings, and walk the grounds. Presence is powerful when it is felt, not just spoken.

Authenticity also matters. People respond to leaders who are real. I’ve never believed leadership should be theatrical or overly polished. People connect with sincerity. They respect leaders who communicate honestly, acknowledge challenges directly, and treat people with dignity.

Confidence is another pillar — but not arrogance. Confidence communicates that the institution is in steady hands. But humility ensures that decisions are grounded, inclusive, and informed by the right voices. I work hard to balance both.

Finally, executive presence must always align with values. The way you communicate, the tone you use, the decisions you make, and the behaviors you model all reflect your character. Presence is not an act; it is an extension of integrity.

In every role I’ve held, I’ve seen that executive presence is what gives people confidence in their institution’s direction. When leaders communicate stability and purpose, entire communities feel empowered. I remain committed to leading with presence that uplifts others and strengthens the institution.

Further Reading

• Leadership Through Personal Accountability
https://www.dr-brian-wickstrom.com/leadership-through-personal-accountability

• Ethical Leadership & Organizational Trust
https://www.dr-brian-wickstrom.com/ethical-leadership-accountability

• Executive Leadership Philosophy
https://www.dr-brian-wickstrom.com/executive-leadership-philosophy