Why so Serious

Question

I'm working my way up the corporate ladder in sales. So far when I look up, I see all the leaders are for the most part serious and more mature. My manager told me to let more "me" show through and believes me being serious is me being uncomfortable. Everyone who has known me for years know I'm more on the serious side of things and about getting things done. My question is, what advice does anyone have on going for that executive presence without being serious? Any public figures to look at would also help.

Accepted Answer

I wear Jordan’s and supreme to the office and on video calls. I’m a senior team member. No one cares who you are so long as you’re genuine and that you say what you’ll do and do what you say.

Answer

You’re going to be your best when you are being authentic.   Your manager is probably seeing you trying to have more gravitas as you being stiff and self-conscious, rather than relaxed and confident.  That old saying “be yourself” - is what’s meaningful here.  Be good at what you do, listen, and that respect will come from others for what you do and who you are.

Answer

I asked ChatGPT who should be your public figure...guess who it said. This tool is now worthless

Answer

You don't what them to see the real you. No one wants that. That's the whole reason you put on nice clothes, comb your hair, brush your teeth, etc. before going into an office. That's why we have virtual backgrounds for video calls.

Answer

@sunbunny31 nailed it. You just be the person you are when you're the most productive best version of you. The "getting things done" thing you just described is part of every executive who ever became one. You've got the stuff that got you where you are. Use that and nothing else. Your executive presence will show up when you become an executive. Authenticity will take most people farther.

Answer

idk anytime i hear ppl say "hey lighten up" or "just relax" i get annoyed. liek sure thats cool but you just have to be your self and that is what ppl will be drawn too.

Answer

I feel bad for your manager. Why don’t you instead put a smile across their face?

Answer

Be you, every time all the time.

Answer

Just be yourself, being serious without any rude behavior is absolutely OK for me.

Answer

provided you aren't showing up in a t-shirt laced with profanity and a crack pipe hanging out of your mouth, nobody really cares as long as you get the job done and give a shit.

NewbySales

Why so Serious

17 comments

NewbySales

Why so Serious

17 comments

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