A great part of leadership is acting -- it involves playing a role that is so convincing that your audience, your employees, your followers, your troops....whomever... is/are absolutely convinced that you are a leader.
Much of this acting goes into making an impression while you are about to speak (and are silent) or when you are listening to the report of a subordinate (and not speaking). What follows sounds humorous. It is as serious as the proverbial heart attack. Do it.
You must put on your "War Face." Regardless of your carriage, posture, physique, manner of dress, or any of a multitude of variables which comprise the picture of your persona, your War Face is the most powerful visual cue evidencing your ability to lead. And you must look like a leader to lead - whether you aspire to emulate John F. Kennedy, Winston Churchill, Attila the Hun or Alexander The Great.
When the moment comes to put on your War Face, you must absolutely be centered, focused and intimidating....like a cobra before a strike. Your face must be stock still and unsmiling. You must look as if you are ready to pounce. Your gaze must be intensely-focused upon your audience. You must be silent, as if waiting to hear a report or waiting for an invitation to present your own speech.
One slightly raised skeptical eyebrow is a fine effect, but is certainly not necessary -- in fact, if you overdue it, you will look like you are acting. Your lips must be tightly shut, nostrils slightly flared. Your gaze cannot waver.
You must create tension, intimidation and fearful anticipation of your next move, i.e., "will he behead me or knight me?"
Why this War Face?
Because it has been associated with every commander since the beginning of recorded history.
And because, in the words of my late father, "Power is how people perceive you."
Douglas E Castle for the Taking Command Blog
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