The Power of Emotionally Intelligent Presence

How the Way You ‘Show Up’ Shape Your Influence and Impact – article by Deiric McCann, Genos

In today’s fast-paced business environment, where competition is fierce and attention spans are short, the way we present ourselves can significantly impact our professional relationships and outcomes. 

In Genos we teach a core principle:

“The way you show up determines the way people feel, the way they feel determines the extent to which they engage, and the extent to which they engage determines the outcome of that engagement.”

This simple ‘mantra’ underscores the control we all have over our impact and influence.  Think about the leaders and colleagues who have left a lasting impression on you. Often, these individuals are described as charismatic or engaging. But if you take a closer look, you’ll find that their impact is less about inherent traits and more about intentional actions and behaviours. It’s about how they show up.

Showing up is a choice. It’s not about having a naturally outgoing personality or being the loudest voice in the room. It’s about being intentional with your actions, words, and energy. This is good news because it means anyone can learn to change the way they show up and, consequently, change the impact they have on others.

Authenticity.  Showing up authentically is key to positively impacting those around you. Authenticity fosters trust and encourages open communication. When you are genuine, people feel safe and valued, which naturally leads to better engagement. Being present in your interactions, actively listening, and responding thoughtfully can transform a mundane conversation into a meaningful connection.

Empathy and Understanding.  Empathy is a cornerstone of emotional intelligence. By showing empathy, you validate others’ feelings and perspectives. This creates a positive emotional environment where people feel understood and respected. When people feel good about an interaction, they are more likely to engage deeply and contribute their best efforts.

Positive Attitude.  Your attitude sets the tone for your interactions. Approaching situations with positivity and optimism can influence the mood of those around you. A positive attitude is contagious and can inspire others to engage more fully and with enthusiasm. It’s about creating an environment where people want to participate and collaborate.

Consistency and Reliability. Consistency in how you show up builds trust over time. When people know what to expect from you, they are more likely to engage without hesitation. Reliability in your words and actions assures others that they can count on you, which strengthens professional relationships and enhances team dynamics.

Practical Steps to Enhance How You Show Up

• Self-Reflection: Regularly assess how you present yourself in various situations. Identify areas for improvement and set goals to enhance your presence.
• Seek Feedback:  Consider taking an emotional intelligence assessment to understand how people observe your emotional intelligence. Use these insights to refine your approach.  Genos include a personalised EI assessment to participants in the upcoming program, How to Become More Emotionally Intelligent.
• Develop Empathy: Practice active listening and put yourself in others’ shoes to better understand their perspectives and feelings.  By listening for what people are feeling as much as to what they’re saying you’ll get a much grater insight into those you deal with – and they’;ll feel this authentic cense of connection with you.
• Maintain a Positive Mindset: Focus on positive aspects and solutions rather than dwelling on problems. This will naturally reflect in your demeanour.

By making conscious choices about your actions and attitudes, you can significantly influence how others feel and engage with you. This, in turn, leads to better outcomes for all involved. Remember, showing up is not just about being physically present; it’s about being fully engaged, authentic, empathetic, and positive. 

Anyone can learn to master these skills and enhance their impact on others. So, how will you choose to show up today?

© Deiric McCann