“Command presence” is a term that is used in the military to denote the degree of respect, admiration, and confidence that people have in a leader. You know you have command presence through the following criteria:
- You are fully confident in your abilities as a leader and manager.
- You have integrity and lead ethically.
- People admire you and look to you to set the tone and attitude of the team.
- You are a reference for others for how to think and feel.
- You don’t feel threatened by questions, challenges, or conflict; in fact, you welcome them.
- Though you get great personal satisfaction and motivation from leading, your ego is under control.
- You don’t need others to validate your feelings and make you feel important.
- You welcome input from others and weigh it in the balance before making a decision.
- People look to you for inspiration, guidance and direction.
- You lead from the front and are not afraid to make tough decisions.
Richard Martin is a consultant, speaker, and executive coach. He brings his military and business leadership and management experience to bear for executives and organizations seeking to exploit change, maximize opportunity, and minimize risk.
© 2014 Richard Martin. Reproduction and quotes are permitted with proper attribution.