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Six key elements of gravitas

By February 8, 2023Blog, Career, Leadership

When we speak about gravitas we are talking about the messages you send that signal that you are the go-to-person in your industry.  It tells others that you are worthy of being heard and they should follow because you know your stuff! So, gravitas refers to how you reflect your preparedness and having a strong gravitas includes how you carry yourself in all situations.  In addition, the six key elements of gravitas are critical for any leader to convey that they have what it takes.   

The six key elements of gravitas are:

  • Grace Under Fire

    Show confidence and that you believe in yourself; stay calm so others will do the same, especially in situations under pressure.

  • Decisiveness

    You make decisions confidently and quickly as necessary while taking responsibility for them.  The ability to do this shows others they can trust in you.

  • Emotional Intelligence

    Emotional intelligence is key to both personal and professional success.  It means that you are self-aware of your emotions. an able to control them. In addition, you are empathetic with others and take accountability for your actions and those under you, particularly in tough situations.

  • High Integrity

    Sticking to your values and standards, being righteous and expressing your opinion, even if unpopular. Adhere to strong moral and ethical principles. 

  • Reputation

    Your character and actions are respected and perceived as worthy.  People recognize you as a true leader and are held in high regard. 

  • Vision

    Influencing others positively by showing them their potential future and painting a true image that is relatable and appropriate.  

It is easy to confuse overconfidence and self-importance with gravitas.  Although it is appropriate to be confident, arrogance has no place in gravitas.  People with true strong gravitas are not self-serving and don’t feel the urge to prove their value since others easily recognize it.  They do not take credits for the ideas presented by others.

People with strong gravitas know when to express their ideas and when to be an active listener who is engaged. They are aware aware about their body language being another form of communication that signals a person’s attitude and level of interest.  They take care in not sending the wrong message with their posture and gestures.

By developing a strong gravitas you will make a positive influence on your peers.  It will also help you command the attention of those above you.

 

Dr. Landrau is a keynote speaker in Houston, TX. She works with organizations focused on retaining women in the workforce and promoting them to executive levels. Her talks about leadership and women’s empowerment, help professional women how to work on their mindset to obtain visibility and recognition to become phenomenal leaders in their industry. 

Hire Dr. Landrau to speak at your event by sending a direct message to drlandrau.com/contact

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