What is professional presence? A couple of examples might help.

A few years ago, someone I know tended to speak in a confusing, fast manner. He was hard to understand and his points were often lost in his presentation. This frustrated him, so he determined to slow down his speech and consciously speaking more fluidly. His progress would be confirmed when someone indicated he was well-spoken. With this emphasis over a few months, he had the opportunity to serve on a panel discussion before an audience of 50 people. It went well and at the reception following the event, someone remarked to him how much they enjoyed his comments and how well-spoken he was. YES!!

Another example is of a friend who tended to interrupt others before they completed their thoughts. He admitted it was rude but found it difficult to be patient. So he consciously developed a habit of holding his hands together when someone was speaking to remind himself to be patient. He found himself better able to resist interrupting and became known as a good listener. All because he wanted to improve his professional presence.

As we approach the end of 2014, don’t miss the opportunity to do two things.

First, reflect on who you became over the past year. What one characteristic have you developed that has expanded your professional presence? What has been said about you that you were pleased to hear?

Second, identify one characteristic you want to develop this next year. In December 2015, what comment would be an indication you made progress? This is how you develop your professional presence.