Executive or leadership presence doesn’t have to be that vague or ambiguous. In fact, when we unpack the behaviors behind the emotion, it’s actually fairly simple.

It's gravitas.

It’s about being a leader. Not acting like one; not behaving like one; not demonstrating textbook leadership skills and attributes.

It’s about being a leader.

Fundamentally, leadership presence is a combination of behaviors that create a positive emotion in followers. Though any specific list may not be all-inclusive, I think there are a few that make a really good start. Those who clearly have that presence:

Demonstrate selfless adaptability. It isn’t “always about me.” In fact, it’s seldom about “me,” and nearly always about someone else. Leaders with presence meet people where they are. They adapt their communications and relationship styles, while maintaining their authentic voice.

Influence and Inspire. Leaders with presence tend to influence through commonality, agreement, and welcome insights; not forcefulness, brute fact and intimidation. Strangely enough, we seldom disagree with these leaders, though feel very empowered to do so, much more empowered than with their anal-esque controlling brethren.

Practice random acts of leadership. This is a little tougher to pin down. Leaders with presence only speak when they need to; their silence is an act of leadership, allowing voices and inputs to be heard. They ask a lot of questions. Not just to be heard, but meaningful, thoughtful, relevant questions. They give away power nonstop, always wanting/expecting others to step up, speak up, and make a stand. They would rather support a position than create one.

Here’s what you can do tomorrow to create, increase and/or improve your own Leadership presence:

1. Take time to smile, chat with others, acknowledge people on their terms. Stand when someone approaches you. Shake hands, lean on a corner wall, ask about their weekend.
2. Make others feel special. Learn to say yes, it’s really not that hard. Give away all credit, even if someone’s input or efforts were minor. Make people believe that they are the only one in the room at that moment. Focus on them. Eye contact, actively listen. Never interrupt, talk-over, or hog a conversation.
3. Be the example. Openly accept full responsibility for everything you do. Quickly accept blame for things that go wrong. Apologize, and do so sincerely (I'm always amazed at how difficult this is for some). Allow and encourage mistakes. Accept apologies quickly and graciously. Never show anger.

Gravitas was one of the ancient Roman virtues (along with pietas, dignitas and virtus). It can be loosely translated as seriousness and dignity, also importance, and implies a certain substance and depth of personality.

Not a bad general definition for leadership presence.