Me.

Are You the Invisible Employee?

By Jo Miller, Women's Leadership Coach

Nicole Moretti* had been an accounting manager for eight years. Nicole was consistently praised by her superiors for her expertise, work ethic and the high quality of her work. Nonetheless, these qualities were not enough to get this manager the respect she deserved.

In meetings, senior executives directed their questions to less experienced employees. She had heard more than once that she was considered to be more junior than the other managers at her level.  She realized she had a credibility problem. She felt that her colleagues and superiors did not take her seriously. In her own words, she was "invisible."

Moretti realized that although she was performing at the level of a senior manger, she was not projecting a solid presence as a seasoned, mature leader. To overcome this obstacle, Moretti set a goal of strengthening her reputation as a credible, authoritative manager and embarked on a step-by-step approach to reinventing herself and polishing up her image.

Enlist an Observer
First, she recruited the help of a trusted mentor and coach. In confidential meetings, the mentor observed Moretti's body language and communication style, and noticed certain patterns that undermined her authority. Moretti asked her mentor not to hold back and to give specific, forthright feedback.

Facets of Presence
Moretti and her coach determined what qualities defined a positive corporate presence:

·  Body language -- No matter how knowledgeable you are, if your posture doesn't reflect confidence, you will not command respect.

·  Vocal tone and pace -- Maintain an even tone of voice, with a low pitch and resist the temptation to speak faster when feeling flustered.

·  Grammar and language -- Be concise and economical with words. Using filler words like 'I mean', 'you know' and 'I think' will weaken your authority.

·  Professional attire -- Wear business suits and dresses that reflect your corporate style and good taste.

·  Appropriate use of laughter and humor -- Avoid the habit of giggling when nervous or uncomfortable. A person who constantly smiles and laughs unnecessarily is less likely to be trusted in serious situations.

Identify Habits That Undermine
During the following week, the coach observed Moretti and evaluated how she stacked up in each of these categories. Moretti was surprised to discover that she had fallen into some bad habits that made her look and sound far younger than her years.

Moretti realized that her stance was often too casual, and instead of confidence, she often conveyed nervousness. Under stress, Moretti's voice rose in pitch and she talked faster than usual, showing that she was flustered. Even when she knew what she was talking about, Moretti gave the impression that she was unsure of her facts. She would often giggle after making a statement, and she had a bad habit of saying she was sorry, even when she was not at fault. She wore outfits that were fashionable and cute, whereas her male associates dressed in the more conservative dress of corporate America. Through all these actions, she had trained people to see her as the junior team member. 

Reinvent Your Leadership Presence
Moretti challenged herself to make subtle changes. With the help of her coach, she learned how to correct her bad habits and to dress more appropriately. Within one month she was visibly emitting a more confident, mature presence and gaining the respect she deserved. Moretti succeeded in acquiring the behaviors that underscore her authority without giving up her natural style and persona. She learned to express herself as the accomplished businesswoman that she is.

Changing verbal and nonverbal habits is not always easy, but refining your leadership presence will win respect and credibility, and will fast-track your career.

*Not her real name.


Jo Miller is the Women's Leadership Coach. Visit www.jomiller.net to find out more about Jo's leadership coaching programs. Ask about a complimentary leadership coaching session!