One of the most frequent questions I’m asked is, “Do high-level leaders really need to be great speakers?”
As a presence, presentation, and performance coach with over two decades of experience working with senior executives, my answer is a resounding, “Yes!” Like peas and carrots, speaking and leading go hand in hand. If you want to lead your team at the highest level, you must bring an equally high level of poise, presence, and performance to your communications.
That said, the better question might be: “Are high-level leaders always great speakers?” My answer? “No.”
The Reality of Leadership and Communication
I’ve worked with numerous CEOs, CFOs, and COOs who were not (yet) top-notch speakers. Just because someone reaches the upper echelons of leadership doesn’t mean they automatically possess exceptional verbal skills or a maximized executive presence—or what I prefer to call Charismatic Presence. This gap can create significant challenges, especially since senior-level roles often demand high-stakes speaking engagements, including:
- Media interviews
- Presentations to key clients and stakeholders
- Town Hall addresses to employees
- Conference keynotes
- Event introductions for colleagues or luminaries
- Panel and podcast participation
- Award acceptance speeches
Common Barriers to Great Speaking
Many senior leaders have confided their struggles to me. They feel anxious or nervous in high-visibility moments, embarrassed about their lack of experience with public speaking, or self-conscious about their ability to deliver confidently. Some worry they’ll never measure up to a predecessor’s natural charisma, while others battle feelings of inadequacy because they lack formal credentials like an MBA or even a high school diploma.
The takeaway? Even senior leaders face hurdles when it comes to leveling up as speakers and communicators. And that’s perfectly okay.
Why You Can’t Afford to Wait
What isn’t okay is avoiding opportunities to speak because you haven’t addressed these challenges. Performance anxiety and limiting beliefs will only intensify as your responsibilities grow. To lead effectively, you must tackle both internal obstacles (like confidence and charisma) and external ones (like foundational speaking skills).
The Commitment to Excellence
Like great leadership, great speaking requires time, focus, and diligence. Mastering communication skills and cultivating Charismatic Presence isn’t an overnight process. It’s a journey—one that my clients undertake with dedication, often working with me for weeks, months, or even years. Their goal? To consistently show up poised, prepared, and impactful when delivering signature talks, leading critical meetings, or sharing a vision for their organization.
Ready to Level Up?
If you’re a senior leader ready to elevate your speaking, communication, and executive presence, let’s connect. Together, we can explore ways to help you make your greatest impact.
And if you’re looking for inspiration, my third book, Charismatic Presence: Five Principles for Magnetic Presentations, will be released in early 2025. Click here to join the waitlist or pre-order bulk copies.
Great leaders don’t just lead—they inspire. And inspiration starts with the power of your voice.
Need help preparing for an important interview, or improving your executive presence? Let’s connect!
Eleni Kelakos, CSP The Speaker Whisperer®
