Presence Before Words
1. Opening Observation
I’ve been noticing how often influence seems to be decided before a conversation really begins.
More and more, experienced professionals describe situations where what they say is sound, thoughtful, and relevant – yet the response they receive feels muted or unpredictable. The words land, but the impact varies.
2. Naming the Underlying Dynamic
What’s happening beneath the surface often has less to do with language and more to do with presence.
Presence isn’t performance or projection. It’s the way someone arrives into a space – how they position themselves, how they read the room, and how they signal judgement before speaking. In complex environments, this quiet signalling often determines how much weight a contribution will carry.
3. Why This Is Hard to Talk About
Presence is difficult to name precisely because it’s intangible.
It doesn’t show up on an agenda, and it can’t be easily measured. Highly capable people often assume that if their thinking is clear, presence will take care of itself. When impact falters, they may look for issues in confidence, authority, or communication style – missing the more subtle dynamic at play.
Because presence operates beneath awareness, it’s rarely addressed directly.
4. What Shifts at the Next Level
At the next level, attention shifts from what to say to how and when to enter the conversation.
Timing, restraint, and the ability to hold space become increasingly influential. Speaking less – but with greater discernment – often creates more impact. Presence becomes quieter, steadier, and more deliberate, shaping outcomes without drawing attention to itself.
5. Closing Reflection
For many experienced professionals, influence grows not by adding more words, but by becoming more intentional about how they arrive.
It’s often noticed only when it’s missing.
If this resonates, you’re welcome to get in touch.
With warmest wishes,
Korinne Le Page
Thrive Coaching & Training – Empowering You to Thrive!
#CommunicationSkills #ProfessionalDevelopment #Leadership #Presence #ImpactfulCommunication