Let’s be honest: most meetings are a waste of time, but the leaders who know how to own the room aren’t born with it—they’re trained. Welcome back to the 5% Club Podcast, where we pull back the curtain on what it takes to move from middle management to the executive table, minus the burnout. 

I’m Shayla King, your favorite executive coach, and today, I’m sharing the real mindset tools that will have you presenting like a boardroom boss—even if you’re feeling like an imposter inside. This is Part 1 of a special two-part series on leading meetings like a 5% Executive. Today: we start with the most powerful tool in your arsenal—your mind. 

Executive Presence Starts With Your Brain (Not Your Suit) 

I’ve led billion-dollar deals and global teams. Here’s what I know: Executive presence isn’t about what you wear—it’s about how you think. Before you say a single word, you’ve got to manage your mindset. That’s the difference between leaders who shrink and leaders who command the room. 

If you’ve ever found yourself rambling, talking too fast, or hoping nobody asks you a tough question in a big meeting, this episode is for you. You’re not alone—and you can flip the script. 

Intentional Thought Creation: The CEO Mind Hack 

Step one is simple but not easy: get intentional about your thoughts. Most high performers walk into meetings with thoughts like: 

• “They’re going to pick this apart.” 
• “I’m not ready.” 
• “I hope they take me seriously.” 

If those are running in your brain, you’ll show up nervous, rushed, or apologetic. Executive energy comes from choosing thoughts like: 

• “They want to hear from me.” 
• “I’m the expert at this.” 
• “I’m here to contribute, not to convince.” 

This shift changes everything—from your breathing to your body language to the way your ideas land. 

Three Mindset Shifts to Present Like a 5% Executive 

1. Stop Trying to Prove You Belong. 

Proving energy feels desperate. Executive energy feels certain. The truth? You don’t have to prove you deserve your seat. You already earned it. Try thoughts like: 

• “I am meant to be in this room.” 
• “I don’t need to resell myself.” 
• “I’m here to contribute, not to earn my seat.” 

When you drop the need to prove, you free your mind up to actually add value. 

2. Stop Trying to Convince. 

You’re not there to win or “sell” your idea at all costs. True executive leaders partner with the room to make the best decision. Your job is to present clearly and invite feedback—not push aggressively. 

Try this: 

“I’m not here to win. I’m here to help us make the best decision for the business.” 

“I trust the people in the room. We’re on the same team.” 

The result? More collaboration, less defensiveness, and better decisions. 

3. Slow Down. 

Fast talking = nervous energy. Executive presence is calm and unhurried. Speaking slowly gives your words—and your confidence—more weight. Remind yourself: 

• “I was invited here for a reason.” 
• “Calm is contagious.” 
• “When I slow down, people lean in.” 

Practice pausing, breathing, and letting your ideas land. 

Your Evolve Work: Put It Into Practice 

Want to shift your presence now? Write down the best thoughts that help you stop proving, stop convincing, and slow down. Rehearse your mindset, not just your slides. That’s where the 5% Club wins. 

Ready for Your Next Level? 

If you want even more actionable strategies, be sure to join the 5% Club waitlist at shaylaking.com. The Performance + Happiness Lab is currently full, but my waitlist gets first access when spots open up. 

You didn’t come this far just to come this far. Let’s evolve together. 

Your Coach, cheerleader, and accountability partner,

Career & Life Coach for Executives

About Shayla King: 

Shayla King is a certified executive coach based in Austin, TX, former C-suite leader, and founder of Evolve. She built her career from IHOP waitress to the boardroom and now helps ambitious corporate professionals—especially women—get promoted, increase their performance and happiness (PH+), and live lives they love. 

Join the 5% Club waitlist at shaylaking.com.