The Situation: The Impact of Presence
Three men and three women, all high-level executives, will be opening and presenting an innovation center to their shareholders. These executives have years of experience and are successful in their specialties. The senior leader, who heads the group, is concerned about the impact of the executives’ presence. They are hesitant to make changes to their physical appearance. However, they each need a fresh new approach to their look—from head to toe.
The Solution/Action Plan:
Each one of the executives completed a personal survey and had a consultation. The purpose was to establish the importance of the media interview and the board of directors and to determine what each executive was willing to experiment with regarding his or her appearance. It was important to ensure the work was his or her individual decision and to ensure each had input as to choices for updated hair styles and clothing and, for the women, a review of their make-up. It was relayed to each executive to trust the consultant and the senior leader. Coloring, body style, and personal traits were all taken in account. We requested each person be open to the suggestions.
The Outcome:
After making the changes in their appearances, the executives returned to the corporate office. Staff members were amazed at the differences. Although the executives’ technical skills were always trusted and not in question, enhancing the executives’ presence helped in many ways. The board of directors, senior leaders, and stockholders have increased confidence in the team. The opening of the innovation center was successful and well received.
Your hardest times often lead to the greatest moments of your life. Keep going. Tough situations build strong people in the end.” ― Roy T. Bennett, Author of The Light in the Heart