Confidence shines through both on video calls and in person, making a lasting impression whether you’re leading a virtual discussion or engaging with colleagues in the office. Colleagues often remember how you guide conversations and carry yourself, noticing the positive energy you bring to every setting. Balancing remote work and days at your workplace can challenge anyone, yet finding your stride in both environments feels incredibly rewarding. The ability to stand out in meetings and maintain that same presence when you transition to the office is something many people aim for, especially as flexible work arrangements become more common.

You don’t need a big title to look and feel like a leader. You just need a few concrete moves to shine whether you’re on camera or in the conference room. Let’s dig into what makes executive presence click in a split work setup.

Clarify what executive presence involves in hybrid settings

First off, executive presence isn’t about barking orders or peacocking around the office. It combines clarity, composure, and consistency that make people trust and follow your lead. In hybrid settings, that means you build credibility through both a screen and face-to-face interactions.

Imagine you’re wrapping up a project update. Online, you share a slide deck with concise bullet points and maintain eye contact with the camera. In person, you bring printed summaries and greet team members before diving in. Both routines reinforce that you’re prepared and reliable, no matter where you sit.

Develop your virtual and in-person brand

You want colleagues to instantly associate your name with professionalism and approachability. That doesn’t happen by chance. Start by arranging your video backdrop: choose neutral walls, tidy shelves, or a branded poster. Keep lighting soft but bright so your face reads clearly.

When you visit the office, dress a notch above the usual. If the team’s typical look is business casual, add a blazer or a stylish watch. Those small touches show that you take your role seriously. Over time, people connect your presence with quality work and positive energy.

Incorporate one solid habit every day: drop a quick Slack check-in, share a resource that helped you solve a problem, or invite someone to an informal coffee chat. Each touchpoint enhances the reputation you’re building.

Master communication techniques

  • Speak with clear intent. Use brief, action-focused statements like “Let’s aim to finish that draft by Friday.”
  • Utilize strong visuals. Replace text-heavy slides with simple graphics that highlight key metrics or trends.
  • Control your pace. Slow down your speech slightly during virtual presentations to ensure everyone follows along.
  • Lean in when you listen. Nod, ask follow-up questions, and repeat back crucial points to confirm understanding.

Refining these skills improves how others perceive your leadership. Even small adjustments—like pausing for two seconds after asking a question—give colleagues space to contribute and feel heard.

Experiment with your tone of voice as well. A warmer, more conversational style eases remote meetings, while a firmer, direct tone carries weight during on-site reviews.

Build trust through consistent visibility

  • Hold regular office hours. Set a two-hour block when coworkers know they can pop in or ping you online.
  • Share quick wins. Post a brief summary of key achievements—your own or your team’s—in your company’s chat channel.
  • Volunteer for rotating roles. Lead the planning team for a hybrid social event or the note-taking squad for weekly check-ins.
  • Follow up on feedback. If someone points out a concern, acknowledge it within 24 hours and outline your next steps.

Building trust doesn’t happen overnight. It results from meeting every commitment—dropping ideas in real time, summarizing takeaways right after meetings, and checking back with stakeholders after milestones.

This continuous loop of action and reporting keeps your presence top of mind, whether colleagues see your face across the desk or on their screen.

Seek feedback and mentorship

Asking for feedback might feel awkward initially, but it quickly leads to growth. Reach out to a manager or a mentor after a big meeting. Ask, “What stood out in my presentation, and what could I improve?”

When you receive input, thank the person and outline one or two specific changes you will make. Then put those tweaks into practice during your next virtual or in-person interaction.

If possible, organize a mentorship circle with peers who share similar goals. Exchange feedback about your camera presence, meeting facilitation style, or office networking tactics. That small group becomes a safe space to test new approaches and share quick wins.

And don’t forget to give back: offer to coach someone on crafting polished talking points or navigating virtual whiteboarding tools like Microsoft Teams or Zoom.

Incorporate these tips into your routine, like planning an engaging opener, adjusting your camera lighting, or scheduling office hours. Each step enhances your presence in both professional and virtual settings.