Sounding Smart Isn’t Enough: How to Speak with Authority

Do Something Different: A Leadership Podcast

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Executive presence is stubbornly difficult to define. This episode breaks down the critical connection between communication style and executive presence, and challenges the common belief that being smart is enough to lead effectively.

Whether you're naturally collaborative, soft-spoken, or conflict-averse, your style may be holding you back more than you realize. The key? Evolve how you communicate without losing who you are — and unlock the version of yourself that’s already capable of commanding a room.

Key takeaways:

• Why being “nice” can unintentionally make you forgettable
• How personality is more about past habits than future potential
• The danger of blending in with corporate norms — and how to stand out
• The mindset shift from authenticity-as-you-are to authenticity-as-you’re-becoming
• Five powerful “P” tools to boost executive presence

This episode is a masterclass in transforming your presence — not by becoming someone you’re not, but by expanding who you already are. Listen in and start crafting the leader you’re meant to become.

Rusty Gaillard is an executive coach, helping mid-level corporate leaders create more career success while working less and enjoying it more. That's real freedom.
Get more leadership tips to grow your skillset and mindset at rustygaillard.com, and follow Rusty on LinkedIn.

Chapters

1. Sounding Smart Isn’t Enough: How to Speak with Authority (00:00:00)

2. Introduction to Executive Presence (00:00:10)

3. The Limitations of Communication Styles (00:01:23)

4. Breaking Free from Past Self-Image (00:06:16)

5. The Five Ps of Communication (00:08:27)

6. Redefining Your Communication Style (00:14:53)

7. Embracing Growth and Change (00:16:53)