The Power of Presence

November 15, 2011

According to executive coach Hedges, having a stronger presence, or charisma, can transform an average person into a leader who can create and communicate a vision for others. Hedges sets forth the I-Presence model (Intentional, Individual, and Inspirational) to help readers create a persuasive and powerful self. Through exercises, readers are taught to battle negativity by developing a pregame ritual, establish trust through being reliable and credible, and inspire others by focusing on solutions instead of problems. Hedges also shares suggestions for making presentations and leading meetings, for instance, to think from the listener's point view and to share only visions that are active and alive. Above all, she advises readers to pay attention, maintain a sense of humor, go easy on themselves, and look people in the eye. VERDICT Hedges's primary targets are junior executives or white-collar business owners who want to get ahead. For others, this basic advice has already been given in Dale Carnegie's How To Win Friends and Influence People.--Deborah Bigelow, Leonia P.L., NJ

Copyright 2011 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.