EXECUTIVE PRESENCE & INFLUENCE OVERVIEW
Part of the Executive Development Series
Executive presence is the ability to command attention, build trust and inspire others to follow you. In the high-visibility world of media, entertainment and technology, leaders are often judged in seconds on how they show up, what they say and how they say it. Executive Presence & Influence helps you shape those first impressions and everyday interactions so they consistently reinforce your leadership brand.
This EDS program blends practical frameworks, rehearsal and real-time feedback to develop a presence that is both authentic and impactful. Drawing on ideas such as the “7-11 rule,” which suggests that in the first seven seconds people form quick judgments about your credibility and likeability, the experience moves from inner mindset to outward expression. It culminates in the Confident Casual® target, where you project poise and authority while remaining approachable and engaging, in person and in virtual settings.
2026 Program Information
Registration Fee:
- $2,850 / members
- $3,180 / non-members
Each program within the Executive Development Series stands independent of the other and may be attended in any order. Seats are limited and registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellations
Written cancellation notices received on or before April 1, 2026 will receive a full refund. Cancellations received after April 1, 2026 are not eligible for a refund but substitutions are permitted.
Executive Presence & Influence: May 13-14, 2026
The Dupont Circle
1500 New Hampshire Ave, NW
Washington, DC 20036
Click here to reserve your room.
Room rate: $299 plus taxes and fees ($346.69)
Room Block Deadline: 4/21/26
- Mid-career professional at Senior Manager, Director or VP level, or equivalency thereof.
- At least 8 years of professional experience.
- Current member of The WICT Network.
Executive Development Series participants represent diverse backgrounds and are committed to strengthening their leadership skills.
Program Purpose
The goal is to develop leaders who project clear, credible executive presence and use it to influence people and outcomes in a positive way. Participants sharpen their self-awareness, refine their communication style and gain practical tools to show up consistently in a way that inspires confidence, increases visibility and supports their career progression, including in AI-enabled workplaces.
What You’ll Practice
- Project strong executive presence: Use voice, body language and energy to convey confidence, credibility and composure, especially in high-stakes moments.
- Create powerful first impressions across formats: Apply the “7-11 rule” to shape how others experience you, and strike the right balance between polished and approachable in both formal presentations and impromptu conversations.
- Engage and influence others: Frame messages, questions and stories in ways that build connection, deepen trust and move people to action.
- Consider the impact of AI on presence: Explore how AI tools are changing how leaders communicate and are perceived, and how to maintain a distinct, human presence alongside them.
Participant Outcomes
Through a mix of short lectures, demonstrations, practice and feedback, you will leave this program with a more intentional executive presence and clear strategies to apply it across your role. Specifically, you will gain:
- A defined leadership presence and brand: A clearer understanding of how you are currently perceived and how you want to be experienced as a leader.
- Stronger communication under pressure: Practical techniques to stay composed, focused and impactful in high-stakes meetings, presentations and difficult conversations, both in person and virtual.
- Greater influence and visibility: A leadership style that feels natural, credible and sustainable, even as expectations shift, along with concrete approaches to building credibility, inspiring confidence and positioning yourself for broader responsibility.
