Can I say something gently, the way I would if we were sitting across from each other with an almond milk latte? If you’ve ever walked out of a meeting thinking, “Dang it. I should have said that,” you’re not alone.

Let’s cut to the chase: Executive presence isn’t about how you sound. It’s about how you listen. Not just to others.

If you lost your job tomorrow, would your self-worth go with it? There’s a story so many of us have believed: Do the work. Get the title. Protect your seat. And you’ll be safe.