Gravitas – What Is It, Why Do You Need It and How Do You Get It?
Gravitas has always intrigued me. In my younger days, climbing the management ladder, I wasn’t sure what it meant. I assumed it was something only intimidating, powerful, clever men possessed. Perhaps it’s easier to identify those who lack it—people with low confidence or self-esteem, or conversely, arrogant individuals who lack interpersonal intelligence. However, those with gravitas, whether naturally or through mastery, have a proven ingredient for success in leadership and influence worldwide.
Understanding Gravitas
The definition of gravitas can be summarized as a combination of expertise, emotional intelligence, and passion, minus anxiety. It is a quality that enables leaders to adjust their communication style according to their audience, thereby enhancing their influence.
Examples of Gravitas
When a leader adapts their communication style or timing based on the audience’s needs, it exemplifies gravitas. Such actions can significantly influence the audience, making them more receptive to the leader’s message.
The Importance of Gravitas in Leadership
In today’s complex and connected world, the traditional notion of gravitas is evolving. The Edelman Trust Barometer (2019) highlights a new phase of trust loss, where reputations can be lost in seconds. Events like the 2008 financial crisis and the rise of fake news have increased the need for clarity, transparency, and authenticity.
For business leaders, gravitas is crucial for engaging with diverse stakeholders. It is essential in all forms of leadership communication, whether in one-on-one meetings, board meetings, or large presentations. The goal is to have an impact and influence, ensuring the audience listens, remembers, and acts on your words.
Common Misconceptions
Leaders often mistake confidence and expertise for gravitas. However, without understanding their audience, they may fail to influence effectively, sometimes causing negative impacts.
Building Gravitas
Emotional Intelligence (EQ) is vital for influence, as emotions often override intellect. Confidence also plays a key role, and acting confidently can help build it. Cognitive behavioral approaches can help manage thoughts and emotions, while psychodynamic thinking aids in setting growth goals.
Confidence in communication is crucial. Language is the currency of business transactions, and mastering verbal and non-verbal communication can captivate and influence audiences. Leadership should focus on authenticity over perfection, as suggested by Sheryl Sandberg in “Lean In.”
Embracing Authenticity
Leaders must accept the complex environment and convey their unique selves. Being true to one’s values, creating trust, and having self-worth are instrumental in achieving gravitas.
Julia Meighan is Chair of VMA GROUP and an Executive Coach. For more information on achieving gravitas, contact jmeighan@vmagroup.com.
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