How to Grow Your Executive Presence - Peter McKenzie "The C-Suite Coach"

What's the single biggest mistake executives make when trying to command a room?

They focus on appearances rather than authentic presence. After two decades in global C-suites and coaching hundreds of leaders, Peter McKenzie has identified the real formula: a precise balance of confidence, communication, and gravitas that can be systematically developed.

Now General Manager at a major real estate firm and executive coach, Peter's journey to mastering presence started with a complete presentation meltdown in front of 180 colleagues. Through roles at Citigroup and Blackstone, he's developed a proven approach to building the three pillars that separate forgettable managers from unforgettable leaders.

Key Talking Points:

• The three pillars of executive presence: confidence, communication and gravitas - and why authenticity matters more than appearances
• How his Italian CEO Francesco used "Navy SEAL" style training to develop young executives through public challenges
• Going from panic-inducing presentations to professional speaking through deliberate practice and Toastmasters
• Why slowing down by 25-30% in movement, speech and decisions can dramatically increase executive presence

Links & Resources:

• Peter’s Website
• Peter’s LinkedIn
• Book Recommendation: $100M Leads by Alex Hormozi
• Podcast: Diary of a CEO with Steven Bartlett

Today's Exercise: The Points Game

Transform your executive presence by collecting "courage points" through deliberate discomfort. Focus on the attempt rather than the outcome to build confidence through action.

Steps to Apply

1. Identify one situation daily where you could step out of your comfort zone (e.g. speaking up first in meetings)
2. Take action despite any anxiety or uncertainty
3. Award yourself a point for the attempt, regardless of outcome
4. Track points daily to build momentum
5. Review weekly to identify patterns and progress
6. Gradually increase difficulty of challenges