It’s quite a challenge to quantify what makes a person come across as uniquely assured and in full control of the situation.
For Billy in marketing it has to be his rainbow tank tops, chosen to match his incredibly colourful personality.
Mary in finance has that habit of using Alan Partridge lines to deflect whenever she’s feeling tense: “I’ve had one panic attack, in a car wash . . . By the time the giant hair dryer came on I was in the footwell.”
Billy and Mary know clothes and humour are great ways to deal with a lack of confidence – they help to project an air of authority (not so much for Billy), while making light of any nervousness.
This explains why power dressing and jokes are often seen as important tools of the trade for executives and senior managers who want to demonstrate strong leadership qualities.
There are, however, more life hacks for helping you to ‘own the room’.
Body language
We all know crossing our arms makes us look defensive (kids would argue it makes mums look angry). But there are other things to avoid. Looking at the floor or beyond people says you’re either shy or don’t really want to be in the room. So remember: hands on the desk and maintain eye contact.
Proper handshakes
Between the pull and pulp method of Donald Trump and the wet rag grip of a White House intern, exists the perfect handshake. Offer a full, five-fingered hand, a firm shake and top it all off with a big smile. Now you’re someone worth meeting.
Happy thoughts
Kicking off any meeting with a gurning moan sets a tone that’s as motivational as Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Start proceedings with a warm welcome and a positive message. There may be serious issues to discuss later but solutions will come easier if everyone knows you’re a boss they can feel at ease with.
Make yourself at home
It doesn’t matter if you’re at the lectern in a conference hall, the boardroom table or the coffee maker, act as if this is your own front room. Not only will this make you feel more relaxed, it will soon become evident everyone else is picking up on your good vibes. There can be no better way to make yourself at home in a confident persona.
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