17 Jul
PeopleTek Coaching Blog

Gravitas

How often have you heard the word gravitas? Does it apply to you?

The dictionary defines gravitas as “seriousness of demeanor,” but it goes beyond that.

One way to think of it is in terms of your overall demeanor and how you are perceived; for many it can be as simple as whether or not a person has “substance”, and it’s viewed as a “must have” for hiring and promotional opportunities.

Acquiring gravitas is an essential building block on this fundamental human journey.
–Graham Wilson

Actor Kiefer Sutherland claims it’s his favorite word; if any of you have seen his hit TV show “24,” the role he plays may help clarify the definition!

Think in terms of:

  • Confidence
  • Skill-set
  • Image
  • How you engage others
  • How you sound; the manner in which you speak
  • Self esteem
  • Integrity
  • Dignity
  • Authenticity
  • Commanding respect

“You can only make a first impression once” still holds true.

What you wear also has an impact. And, don’t dress for the position you currently hold, rather dress for the position you aspire to hold!

At a recent IT conference, it was noticeable that not just the presenters were in professional attire; so were the attendees. There were no jeans or sneakers; almost everyone wore sport coats and blazers. Has something changed? When? Why?

What happened to dressing “down”? Having “casual Fridays,” or in some case casual attire on a daily basis?

It seems there’s been a change of mind-set. Although casual attire is enjoyed by many, others feel it reduces how they feel about themselves while at work. If they are dressed casually, they feel their work mode is also “casual”, that they are less productive, less focused, less motivated. Can you relate?

It’s also been noted that gender differences exist when it comes to “dressing down.” When women dressed casually, they were more inclined to be treated not as an equal, but more with a “get me coffee attitude.” Wow!

How you look and speak, how you carry yourself, your posture, and your handshake all leave an impression.

Awareness is key. Do you naturally exude gravitas? If no, determine what actions to take to make it appear natural!

Here’s a Wealth of Information

Each week we’ll partner with QwikCoach and provide the ability for you to reinforce or expand your knowledge of a prior topic.

Last week’s tip focused on Actions and Beliefs.

Go to QwikTips to read more! There are two different versions–one for visitors and one for licensed QwikCoach users.

Help turn your leadership knowledge into leadership action!

14 Jul
PeopleTek Coaching Communication, Leadership

Assessment: Actions and Beliefs

How often do you think about the skills and abilities that make you an effective leader and team member? How often do you assess what you do well, and what could be improved upon or “refreshed”?

Interacting with others effectively and efficiently is based on technique, experience, personal styles and temperament. What are your strengths? What are your areas for development?

Never neglect an opportunity for improvement.
–Sir William Jones

Self Assessment – Rate yourself

(1 = Never  3 = Sometimes  5 = Always)

  1. I am committed to developing my staff, realizing it builds bench strength, grows the bottom line, reduces attrition, and overall makes the company stronger. Score:
  2. I hold others accountable, and address non productive behaviors in a healthy, honoring way. Score:
  3. I think strategically and take time to work on the bigger picture, not just day-to-day priorities. Score:
  4. I am very “self aware”. I understand my strengths and my areas requiring development, and leverage my strengths to support the attainment of goals. Score:
  5. I am inspired and energized while at work, and know how I contribute to the bottom line. Score:
  6. I clearly communicate my point of view/perspectives, and feel I am listened to (not necessarily agreed with). Score:
  7. I have an open mindset and don’t get stuck on how things used to be, versus how they “could” be. Score:
  8. I listen to opposing viewpoints and take time to process and reflect on them. Score:
  9. I solicit feedback, share the results, and take action against the results. Score:
  10. I maintain my composure regardless of how stressful the situation or antagonistic a person may be. Score:

How many questions scored a 1 or 3? Did any other questions come to mind that you would like to address?

The year is half over; it’s a great time to update your development plan and determine what changes you’d like to make prior to year end.

What are your strengths? What are your areas for development?

Here’s a Wealth of Information

Each week we’ll partner with QwikCoach and provide the ability for you to reinforce or expand your knowledge of a prior topic.

Last week’s tip focused on Independence + Courage.

Go to QwikTips to read more! There are two different versions–one for visitors and one for licensed QwikCoach users.

Help turn your leadership knowledge into leadership action!