Here is something that blew my mind when I first heard it:

While on a math test you are either right or wrong, executive presence is subjective.

It is evaluated by other people. That is what makes it so hard to grasp and master.

And it’s not just based on what we do, but how we do it.

But that's the problem. Most of us are not always aware that our behavior is sending loud messages about our readiness for leadership.

These non-verbal cues can either reinforce your executive presence or undermine it entirely.

I’ve seen these behaviors hold talented professionals back for years despite having a killer track record, so I’m dedicating today’s newsletter to helping you avoid this trap.

3 Non-Verbal Cues To Avoid

I spent 20 years in the corporate world. In my executive days I’ve spent time with C Level executives, board members, and fellow VPs.

I gained a lot of insights into how they evaluate leaders and spot the rising stars.

I also got to see which behaviors caused hesitation and doubt, sabotaging career progression.

Here’s what you DON’T want to do:

1. The Invisible Participant

Have you ever turned your camera off during virtual meetings? Especially the big ones with multiple participants?

Many people do it. After all, you’re not the main contributor you are there to listen right?

When you consistently choose to keep your camera off during meetings, you're sending two powerful, and potentially damaging, messages:

"I'm not important." "My opinion doesn't matter."

Being on camera isn't just about being seen; it's about being present, engaged, and ready to contribute.

It shows that you value the meeting and the participants' time. It demonstrates that you're confident in your place at the table (or in this case, on the screen).

Stop hiding. Turn your camera on and stay engaged to change this perception.

2. The Hesitant Decision-Maker

Another tell-tale sign of undermined executive presence is the inability to make decisions or state opinions clearly.

This often manifests in two ways:

- Avoiding taking a stance on important issues

- Providing options without making a recommendation (a.k.a The Laundry List).

In the early days, your job is to follow instructions. When you become an executive your job is to make decisions.

If you avoid choosing (I’m fine with anything) you are saying “My opinion doesn’t matter” or worse: "I can’t make this decision".

You also can’t push the decision-making responsibility back to your manager.

While gathering input is important, executives are expected to synthesize information and provide clear recommendations, not just a list of options for your manager to choose from.

We often hesitate because we are afraid to make the wrong decision. But this isn’t about being right or wrong. Even if your recommendation isn't ultimately chosen, the act of making one demonstrates your ability to think strategically and take ownership.

On the other hand, when you avoid choosing or pushing the decision up the ladder, you are saying loud and clear: I’m not ready.

Before your next decision (or lack of) ask yourself: Am I providing information (laundry list) or giving a recommendation?

3. The Uncertain Communicator

Have you ever caught yourself saying things like, "I think maybe we should..." or "I'm not sure, but..."?

This type of hedging language can be a confidence killer.

You may think you are being collaborative and leaving room for discussion and other viewpoints, but what senior leadership sees is insecurity.

This use of uncertain language can undermine your authority and make others question your expertise.

Your language indicates you don’t trust your own opinions, so why should they?

Instead of hedging, try phrases like:

"Based on the data, I recommend..."

"My experience suggests that..."

"I propose we..."

And if you want to leave room for others you can ask: “What do you think?”

These phrases convey confidence while still allowing for dialogue and alternative viewpoints.

Practice using them the next time you speak up.

The Hidden Impact of Your Actions

Here's the crucial point: how you behave defines how you are seen, and how you are seen defines whether you will get promoted.

Your behaviors are constantly sending non-verbal messages about your readiness for executive roles.

When you consistently demonstrate confidence, decisiveness, and engagement, you're telling the world (and yourself) that you belong in leadership.

On the flip side, when you hide, hesitate, or hedge, you're reinforcing any doubts others (or you) might have about your executive potential.

Your Next Steps

They may seem small, but these behaviors send a loud message.

Start shifting your actions to use these non-verbal cues to position yourself for executive roles, not sabotage your career progression.

By being mindful of these non-verbal cues, you're not just changing how others see you - you're changing how you see yourself.

I believe in you, and I’m rooting for you.

Maya ❤️