We’re in the middle of an extraordinary workplace evolution—redefining what it means to “show up” at work. With the rise of hybrid and remote teams, we’ve leveled the playing field in some ways, fostering inclusivity and authenticity. But as much as I celebrate these gains, I also feel like we’ve lost something vital along the way: the art of professional presence.
This challenge is especially pronounced for those who began their careers during the pandemic. Many have spent years working remotely, missing out on the unspoken lessons that come with in-person work: how to read a room, adapt your tone, or show self-respect in subtle but impactful ways.
The result? There’s a gap that’s undermining the collaboration and connection we’re all hoping to regain. But the impact goes much deeper, it can quietly derail someone’s career, eroding trust and credibility over time.
Professional presence shapes your business reputation, whether you’re intentional about it or not. Overly casual behavior—like scrolling through texts in meetings or using slang like “bruh”—can influence how peers, leaders, and clients perceive you. And while your work should always speak for itself, the reality is that how you present yourself plays a critical role in opening doors—or closing them.
The Wake-Up Call
A recent experience put this into sharp focus for me. I attended a leadership retreat where some attendees were fully engaged—prepared, attentive, and clearly dialed into the energy of the room. Others? Not so much. They were checking their email messages, using informal colloquial language. Phrases you might expect to hear among friends, like “no cap” or “that’s fire,” felt out of place in a room of leaders and led to missed opportunities to contribute meaningfully.
But here’s the thing: professional presence isn’t about putting on a show or suppressing who you are. It’s about being thoughtful in how you show up. It’s about teaching others how to treat you, showing you value them, and demonstrating respect for the work at hand.
Here are five ways to bring professional presence back into focus:
1. Rediscover Workplace Etiquette
Yes, etiquette matters—even in 2025. It’s about the little things: actively listening during meetings, keeping casual phrases in check, and—yes—keeping your shoes on in the office. These behaviors show that you’re tuned in and taking things seriously. They set the tone for mutual respect and make collaboration smoother.
Quick Note: If “keeping your shoes on” sounds oddly specific, trust me—it needed to be said.
2. Be Situationally Aware
Professional presence means being aware of your surroundings and adjusting accordingly. It’s not about being fake—it’s about being smart. Whether it’s choosing the right tone for a conversation or timing your comments in a meeting, these small adjustments can build trust and show that you “get it.”
3. Remain Fully Present and Presentable
Showing up isn’t just about being physically present. It’s about bringing energy, preparation, and attention to detail. Being well-groomed and put together sends a message: “I respect myself, the work, and the people around me.” On the flip side, prioritizing comfort over context (hello, pajama-inspired outfits) can unintentionally signal that you believe your comfort is more important than those in the room.
4. Communicate with Clarity
Whether in emails, presentations, or casual conversations, clear and thoughtful communication leaves a lasting impression. Avoid overusing jargon, or filler words, and ensure your message is concise and meaningful. For example, when responding to a colleague’s email, instead of a rushed, “Yeah, got it,” take a moment to confirm understanding and next steps: “Thanks for sharing the update! I’ll complete my portion by Friday and let you know if I have any questions.” This demonstrates professionalism and accountability.
5. Invest in Self-Reflection
Take time to evaluate how you’re coming across to others. Consider seeking feedback from trusted colleagues or mentors about your professional presence and how you could refine it. After a team meeting, ask a colleague, “How do you think I came across today? Was I clear and engaging, or are there areas I could improve?”
Moving Forward with Intention
To be clear: I’m not advocating for a return to overly formal workplaces. And I’m all for the inclusivity that comes with bringing your whole self to work. But I do think we’ve lost a key ingredient that makes work effective.
If we’re intentional about enhancing our professional presence, we can balance individuality with shared purpose and find the sweet spot where authenticity and professionalism coexist. When we bring our best selves—prepared, attentive, considerate, and yes, even well-groomed—we make work better for ourselves and for others.
Let’s commit to showing up thoughtfully with our best foot forward in 2025.
Until next time,
