From Competent to Commanding: How to Build Executive Presence in 2025

In today's high-stakes business environment, technical skills alone won't propel you to leadership heights. What separates merely competent managers from truly influential leaders is executive presence — that elusive quality that commands attention, inspires confidence, and signals to others that you belong at the decision-making table.

At Moxie Institute, we've coached thousands of professionals across industries, and we've observed firsthand how executive presence has evolved in 2025's hybrid workplace. Let's explore what it takes to develop this critical leadership quality in today's business landscape.

What Is Executive Presence, Really?

Executive presence isn't about power suits or corner offices. It's the unique combination of behaviors and qualities that communicate credibility, confidence, and capability. It's how you make others feel when you enter a room—virtual or physical.

Based on our neuroscience-backed research and experience coaching Fortune 500 leaders, we define executive presence as having three fundamental components:

1. Authentic Communication: The ability to convey ideas with clarity, conviction, and impact
2. Mindful Composure: Maintaining calm confidence even in high-pressure situations
3. Strategic Gravitas: Demonstrating thought leadership and decisive action

Four Strategies to Build Your Executive Presence in 2025

1. Master Hybrid Communication

Today's leaders must command attention across multiple environments. We've observed that professionals with strong executive presence adapt their communication style seamlessly between virtual and in-person settings.

Try This: Record yourself during your next virtual presentation. Analyze your eye contact, vocal variety, and ability to project energy through the screen. Are you as compelling virtually as you are in person?

2. Cultivate Emotional Intelligence

In our executive presence training programs, we've found that the most influential leaders demonstrate exceptional emotional regulation. They read rooms quickly, adjust their approach accordingly, and show genuine empathy.

Quick Takeaway: Start by practicing the "pause." Before responding in high-stakes situations, take a deliberate breath. This micro-moment creates space for more thoughtful, emotionally intelligent responses.

3. Develop a Signature Leadership Story

Leaders with powerful executive presence craft and communicate a compelling narrative about who they are and what they stand for. This storytelling ability creates connection and memorability.

In our work with tech executives and healthcare leaders, we've seen how authentic storytelling transforms good communicators into inspirational figures.

4. Embody Consistent Leadership Behaviors

Executive presence isn't something you turn on for important meetings—it's how you show up consistently. The small daily habits often matter more than the big presentations.

Common Pitfall: Many professionals undermine their presence by displaying different personas in different contexts. True presence comes from alignment between your values and behaviors across all situations.

Moving Forward

Building executive presence is a journey, not a destination. The most commanding leaders we work with consistently seek feedback, practice deliberately, and refine their presence over time.

At Moxie Institute, our immersive executive presence training helps professionals transform their communication impact through neuroscience-backed techniques and personalized coaching. We've seen even the most technically-minded leaders develop the presence that turns expertise into influence.

The business landscape of 2025 demands leaders who can inspire, align, and mobilize teams through complexity and change. By intentionally developing your executive presence, you position yourself not just as competent, but truly commanding.