143. How to Lead the Room as a CEO

Prina delves into one of the most crucial, yet often misunderstood, skills for any CEO: how to lead the room with presence and purpose.

Prina breaks down actionable, practical strategies to help you, as a CEO or executive, own the room—not because of your title, but through intentional actions, thoughtful pauses, and inspiring leadership. These are not just theoretical ideas; they’re techniques Prina has successfully used in her work with top executive teams.

Key Takeaways:

1. Enter Like You Belong There:
   • Command attention with purpose, pausing as you enter to set the tone for the room without arrogance.
2. Lead With Questions, Not Answers:
   • Avoid the "Hippo Effect" and shift the focus to the collective intelligence of the room. Ask thought-provoking, open-ended questions that challenge assumptions.
3. Own Your Silences:
   • Silence is a powerful tool that forces deep thinking and enhances the impact of your words. Practice waiting before speaking again to give people the space they need to contribute meaningfully.
4. Use Stories to Control the Narrative:
   • People remember stories, not data. Craft compelling narratives to illustrate your vision and inspire your team.
5. Take the Room's Pulse, Then Set the Tone:
   • As a CEO, you’re not just reacting to the room—you control the atmosphere. Whether calming or energising, lead like a thermostat, not a thermometer.
6. Leave Before You’re Done:
   • Whenever possible, conclude while the energy is high, leaving the room wanting more. This empowers your team to take ownership and continue without your constant presence.

Why This Matters:

If you don’t learn how to lead the room, the room will lead you. You risk losing control of the conversation, decision-making processes, and, ultimately, your organisation’s direction. But if you master these techniques, you’ll not only inspire loyalty and engagement but also create a culture of innovation and strategic thinking that cascades down through every level o

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