A friend of mine recently asked for my opinion after receiving advice to enhance their ‘Executive Presence.’ I told them that my initial reaction was that this reminded me of an old Dilbert cartoon—images of people in suits and ties delivering polished PowerPoint presentations in deep voices. I also considered how exceptional communicators like Steve Jobs must have broken that mold, yet here we are.

Beneath this outdated term lies something timeless: the power of discovering our Voice. On the surface, our voice is merely sound; below that finding our Voice is a deeply personal journey.

First, we have to believe we have something worth saying. This is hard for anyone dealing with self-doubt. Next, we have to step out from the psychological comfort of the background. This is hard for introverts and anyone who has been conditioned to take on a ‘supporting’ role in life. Finally, we have to be willing to open ourselves to the fear of not being well-received, and no one likes rejection.

I think real executive presence comes from the opposite of faking it with a suit and tie. It comes from valuing ourselves and our views and courageously speaking up.