WIC Webinar: Building Executive Presence-WIC Webinar: Building Excellent Presence

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The AASLD Women's Initiative Committee hosted the first webinar in their "Lessons Beyond Medicine" series, focusing on "Curating Your Career" with expert Heidi Dieter, Chief Research Administrator at Mayo Clinic. Dieter emphasized the critical role of executive presence—a combination of confidence, poise, and authenticity—in career advancement. Drawing upon research from Dr. Sylvia Ann Hewlett and executive coach Samira Gupta, executive presence is defined as a magnetic aura that commands attention, fosters trust, and inspires action. It comprises three pillars: gravitas (how you act), communication (how you speak), and appearance (how you look), with gravitas viewed as most impactful. Dieter highlighted that perceptions others have of you influence career opportunities and that these perceptions can be shaped through intentional behavior and feedback.<br /><br />She shared personal stories illustrating the importance of executive presence in leadership and medical contexts. For example, a surgeon’s commanding presence instilled confidence in a vulnerable family facing cancer treatment. Dieter discussed strategies to develop gravitas—confidence, decisiveness, inclusiveness, respect, vision, and integrity—often requiring coaching or honest feedback from a trusted inner circle. Communication skills improve with practice, storytelling, listening, and inclusivity. Appearance should be polished yet authentic to avoid distraction.<br /><br />The webinar also addressed the nuances for women in leadership, underscoring the need to actively create one’s narrative amidst gendered perceptions and to balance confidence with humility. Online executive presence requires attention to engagement, technology, and visual presentation. Executive coaching was recommended as a valuable tool to overcome self-doubt and build authentic leadership presence. The session concluded with actionable tips to manage perceptions, develop skills, and remain true to oneself for career success.

Keywords

AASLD Women's Initiative

Lessons Beyond Medicine

Curating Your Career

Heidi Dieter

Executive Presence

Gravitas

Communication Skills

Leadership Development

Women in Leadership

Executive Coaching