The CEO’s hand went up. Third time stopping the presentation. “We’ve heard enough,” he said, looking around the boardroom.

“I can’t believe I kept talking… this is where I really need your help,” my client confided later.

This VP—let’s call her Erica—had it all: Strategic division leader, Stellar track record, High-potential status

But in her C-suite presentation, she:

• Spoke excessively
• Defended unnecessarily
• Lost her moment to shine

MOST EXECUTIVES OVER-TALK in high-stakes meetings—a widespread issue.

Statistic check: 67% of executives lose their shot at advancement from one mistake: They don’t know when to stop talking.

“What if you had a powerful reminder?” I asked.

“Like what?”

“In meetings, do you ever ask yourself—why am I talking?”

That’s when WAIT – WHY AM I TALKING? Became her guide.

The Protocol:

• Keep “WAIT” visible in every meeting
• Default to listening, not talking
• Only speak when directly asked

When You Must Respond:

Take a deliberate 3-second pause

Ask one clarifying question before responding

Just a few weeks later:

• CEO meetings transformed
• Meeting times slashed
• Executive presence soaring

Same C-suite. Same pressure…

But this time? She let silence do the work.

The CEO leaned in: “Something’s different… your leadership presence is on another level.”

Mastering the art of strategic silence can be the key to unlocking your true executive presence and leadership impact.

Ready to transform your executive impact? Let’s talk.