The Truth About Presence: It’s a Multi-Sensory Experience

After studying what makes certain women absolutely magnetic, I discovered it’s not one thing – it’s four elements working together. Let’s call it a recipe: each ingredient matters, but the magic happens when they combine.

Think about it, when someone truly captivating walks into a room, what do you notice? It’s not just one thing. It’s how they carry themselves, how they smell (in the best way), how they speak, and that indefinable energy that makes you think, “I want to know her story.”

That’s what we’re building here – not just a good outfit, but your entire presence blueprint.

Layer 1: Your Visual Introduction (Yes, Dressing Matters)

Let’s start with the foundation which is  your visual impact. This isn’t about expensive clothes or following trends. It’s about understanding that your appearance is your first conversation starter.

says “Working women consistently report problems with preferred dresses that are too tight, too loose, or made from limiting fabric varieties. When your clothes are constantly demanding attention (adjusting, pulling, smoothing), you’re not present – you’re distracted”.

Your Strategic Wardrobe Essentials:

• The Confidence Blazer: One perfectly fitted blazer that makes you feel like you could negotiate world peace. Not stiff, not trendy – just structured enough to give you literal and figurative backbone.
• The Power Base: Well-fitted trousers or a dress that lets you move naturally. Test: can you gesture expressively without worrying about anything riding up or pulling?
• The Signature Element: One consistent style choice that becomes your calling card. Maybe it’s always wearing interesting earrings, or consistently choosing rich jewel tones, or having perfectly polished nails.

Pro Tip: 58% of women bring sweaters to work because of cold offices – factor this into your wardrobe strategy. A beautiful cardigan or blazer isn’t just style; it’s practical confidence.

Layer 2: Your Scent Signature (The Memory Maker)

Here’s where it gets interesting. Scent creates emotional intimacy and boosts confidence while drawing people in. This isn’t about drowning yourself in perfume – it’s about strategic scent psychology. When you smell good, you literally feel more confident. Citrus notes help you feel more alert and are refreshing and daytime-appropriate, while linking a scent to professional settings can actually trigger your “work mode” mindset.

Your Scent Strategy:

• Morning Meetings: Fresh, clean scents with citrus notes that energize you and others
• Creative Sessions: Warm, inviting scents that create a comfortable atmosphere
• Big Presentations: Your signature scent that makes you feel unstoppable
• Networking Events: Sophisticated, memorable scents that people associate with you

Application Rules:

• Choose ONE signature scent for professional settings
• Apply to pulse points: wrists, behind ears, base of throat
• Less is more – people should only smell you when they’re close enough for conversation
• Layer with matching body lotion for longevity

Layer 3: Your Voice and Communication Power (The Secret Weapon)

Remember the conversation about learning from watching dramas? There’s genius in that approach. Communication isn’t just about words—it’s about how you carry yourself, with body language that reinforces your message. A calm, resonant tone creates familiarity and trust, enhancing attractiveness. Changing your natural voice isn’t the goal but intentionality is.

Your Communication Upgrade Plan:

Week 1-2: Foundation Building

• Record yourself speaking for 2 minutes daily (yes, it’s awkward, but necessary)
• Practice speaking slightly slower than feels natural
• Learn proper pronunciation of industry terms (remember the “paradigm” moment?)

Week 3-4: Confidence Building

• Practice the “pause instead of filler” technique
• Develop 3 go-to conversation starters that feel authentic to you
• Master the art of asking thoughtful questions that show engagement

Week 5-6: Presence Mastery

• Practice articulating your ideas in 30-second elevator pitches
• Learn to use your voice as a tool for emphasis and engagement
• Develop your signature speaking style that reflects your personality

Advanced Tips:

• Your body language must match your verbal message to be credible – practice open gestures and strong posture
• Watch high-quality content (TED talks, interviews with impressive women) and notice their speech patterns
• Practice storytelling – everyone remembers a good story

Layer 4: Your Expertise and Authentic Value (The Difference Maker)

This is where your creative background becomes your end game. You bring something unique that only you can offer. Your creative mindset is literally your differentiator. While others think in straight lines, you think in colors, patterns, and possibilities. That’s not just nice to have – it’s essential in today’s business world.

Your Expertise Positioning Strategy:

• Identify Your Unique Lens: What perspective do you bring that others don’t?
• Develop Your Signature Stories: 3-5 examples that showcase your creative problem-solving
• Practice Translation: Learn to explain your creative process in business terms
• Stay Curious: Ask questions that show you’re thinking differently about challenges

The Learning Mindset Advantage: Sometimes your superpower isn’t knowing everything – it’s knowing how to learn and synthesize information creatively. Confident communication starts with joining the conversation and making your voice heard.

Related article: Say No to the Rules: How Creative Women Are Redefining Fashion With Creativity

Here’s the beautiful truth: Each element amplifies the others. Confident women implement specific habits to reclaim their power, and these habits create a positive feedback loop:

• When you look polished, you speak more confidently
• When you smell amazing, you stand taller naturally
• When you know your worth, you invest in better self-presentation
• When you’re learning actively, you become more interesting to others

What might be playing out in your creative mind right now;

“I feel like I’m being fake” This ingredient isn’t about becoming someone else – it’s about becoming the most polished version of yourself. Your creativity and authenticity are your strengths, not weaknesses.

“I don’t have money for expensive clothes” Focus on fit over price. Confident body language and how you carry yourself matter more than expensive clothes. One well-fitted piece beats ten poorly fitting ones.

“I’m naturally introverted” Perfect! You can convey authority and influence without being loud. This formula works especially well for introverts because it’s about intentional presence, not forced extroversion.

So What’s The Takeaway Dear Creative?

Commanding presence is seen by how you show up as the most authentic, polished version of yourself. It’s about creating an experience that people remember, not because you were trying too hard, but because you were unapologetically yourself.

Your creative spirit, combined with intentional presence, becomes absolutely magnetic. When you master the art of looking good, smelling amazing, speaking with confidence, and sharing your expertise generously, you don’t just enter rooms – you transform them.

Remember, you’re an incredible woman and it’s time to let everyone become aware of your presence.