Leadership Presence: You Must Be Present To Win!

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Leadership Presence Begins with Presence Itself

As a “Joy Junkie,” — someone who goes out of their way to savor moments of joy, I love the bumper sticker “You Must Be Present to Win.”

Presence can be defined as nonjudgmental awareness or current-moment attention. The word “nonjudgmental” is key. It means we’re focusing on what our senses perceive and directing our attention to the present moment without assessing whether it’s good or bad.

Leaders who can show up, pay attention and stay present with other people cultivate deep trust and connection and inspire others to remain calm amidst uncertainty. 

This kind of “leadership presence” is distinct from “executive presence” which refers to the ability to project confidence, poise and authority and make a powerful impression on others.

The Power of Presence 

A recent Psychology Today article describes the power of presence for leaders. It says this type of leadership presence consists of several characteristics and skills: 

• Self-awareness (as opposed to self-consciousness)

• Humble confidence

• Authenticity

• Active listening

• Empathy

• Respectful communication

These are key traits of emotional intelligence and skills that can be learned.

Organizational Benefits of Emotionally Intelligent Leaders

In study after study, employees rate emotionally intelligent leaders as the most sought-after kind of boss. 

Organizations with emotionally intelligent (EI) leaders are more successful than those with leaders possessing low EI, according to substantial research. Workers who see their managers as empathic in particular report less burnout, better mental health and morale, fewer sick days and a greater likelihood to stay at their organizations. I break down this research more fully in The Business Case for Empathy.

The Importance of Active Listening in Leadership

Because our brains register eye contact and other non-verbal cues more quickly than words, people know right away if their manager or leader is genuinely interested in what they’re saying or if they’re not paying attention.

Yamini Rangan, CEO of HubSpot, gives her staff her full attention by taking five minutes between each meeting to quietly “reset.”

At a recent Greater Good Science Center panel discussion on “Why Kind Leaders Win,” Rangan commented that because everyone she meets has prepared in advance, she demonstrates through this simple practice that she cares for and respects them.

A Practical Way to Reset Your Attention

So how do we boost our capacity to be in the here and now and improve our attention to what’s right in front of us?

For me, a daily walk helps me reset. As I head out the door, I’m ready to let my worries melt away and enjoy some fresh air and exercise. Instead of taking my “to do” list in my head with me, I’m excited about and open to what I might encounter.

·  Will I spot one of the bald eagles in the nearby cemetery?

·  Will I get to see some of the deer that live there (today I saw 26!)

If I’m ruminating on a conversation that didn’t go well or rehearsing something in the future, I may miss moments of awe and delight. I won’t get the body and brain refreshment I’m seeking. (Another benefit of walking in nature is that it’s an excellent way to boost our memory and capacity to solve problems, as described in this podcast.)

Creative Flow and Attention Training

Other ways to build the skill of present-focused attention include daily activities that demand we pay close attention, such as:

• Mindfulness practices, Breath work and Meditation

• Yoga, Tai Chi, Qigong and other mindful movement practices

• Playing music, making art, writing, performing – all creative acts

• Any activity in which you experience “flow” – mental state of being completely absorbed in an activity that’s so intrinsically rewarding, we choose to repeat it often. 

What’s your favorite way to practice being present?

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FAQ on Being More Present as a Leader

• What is Leadership Presence?

  Leadership presence is the ability to be present in the moment, actively listen, and demonstrate care for others. It’s important for communicating and building rapport.

• How is that different from simply “being present”?

  “Being present” is the personal skill of keeping your attention on what’s happening right now.
  Leadership presence is the leadership skill that builds on it — using that steady attention to listen carefully, connect authentically with others and demonstrate care and respect.

• Why is presence important in leadership?

  Leaders who are present build stronger relationships with staff. Research shows teams with attentive and empathic leaders report lower burnout, better morale, and stronger retention. Presence improves decision-making and relationship quality at every level.

• What practices help leaders stay present and focused?

  Practices like mindfulness, breath-based movement, reflective walking, and any activity that requires full engagement help build the mental steadiness and focused attention characterized by leadership presence.

• How can leaders develop emotional intelligence?

  Leaders develop emotional intelligence by improving core skills such as self-awareness, empathy, communication, and emotional regulation. Training often focuses on strengthening listening skills, recognizing emotions as they arise, practicing grounded responses, and showing up fully in conversations. These skills support clearer thinking and more effective leadership interactions.

• Do you offer training to help leaders build emotional intelligence and leadership presence?

  Yes. I guide leaders through practical, structured methods to apply these skills in relevant, real-world settings. Learn how to listen actively, recognize emotions (in your body and mind), regulate under pressure, and communicate clearly in both your professional and personal life.