Powerful Presence Without the Performance

There was a time in my career when I believed being the most visible person in the room meant being the loudest. Speaking up in every meeting. Having the answer ready before the question had even landed. Proving, with words, that I deserved to be there.

But somewhere along the way, I realised something important: the leaders I most respected weren’t performing. They weren’t pushing to be seen. They weren’t competing for airtime. They had presence, but it wasn’t loud. It was grounded. Intentional. Felt.

That’s when it clicked for me: powerful presence doesn’t come from pushing. It comes from how you show up in your body, how you use your energy, and how you carry yourself in the room.

For many learning and delivery leaders, presence feels like something you're supposed to have naturally. But in reality, it can be practised and strengthened, like any other leadership skill.

Here are three ways to build a powerful physical presence that speaks volumes, even when you say less:

1. Anchor Before You Enter

Walking into a room in a rush, after back-to-back meetings, means your nervous system is already wired. And that energy follows you.

Take 30 seconds before you enter a room, join a call, or speak up:

• Plant both feet firmly on the floor.

• Take three slow, deep breaths.

• Drop your shoulders.

• Remind yourself: "I don't need to perform. I just need to be present."

Why this works: Grounding your body calms your nervous system and sends a subtle but powerful signal of steadiness. It helps others feel safe in your presence, and it helps you speak with clarity instead of urgency.

2. Speak From the Centre, Not the Shoulders

When you’re nervous, your breath gets shallow. Your voice rises. Your words speed up. You start speaking from the shoulders up – heady, tense, performative.

Try this instead:

• Slow your pace by 20%.

• Pause deliberately between thoughts.

• Drop your voice into your chest (you’ll feel it resonate lower).

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Why this works: A slower, deeper voice and deliberate pacing command more attention than volume. You’re giving people time to absorb your words, and giving yourself space to think.

3. Hold Space Without Filling It

One of the most powerful things you can do as a leader is to listen, fully and actively. You don’t need to nod vigorously, jump in quickly, or fill the silence. Let the space breathe.

When it’s your turn to speak, speak with intention. You don’t need ten sentences when three will do.

Why this works: People notice those who don’t speak just to be heard. When you choose your moment and speak with clarity, your words carry more weight. This isn’t about holding back – it’s about stepping forward when it matters.

Presence isn’t about being the most dynamic voice in the room. It’s about creating a felt sense of confidence, calm, and connection. And that starts with your body, your breath, and your belief in yourself.

So the next time you feel the urge to push, prove, or perform – pause. Your power might not come from doing more. It might come from doing less, and doing it with intention.

To find out more about how working with me can help you reclaim confidence and control, so that you can excel at work and enjoy life, book a free introduction call: https://calendly.com/karen-karenhaguecoaching/intro