Ever feel like you need to talk more in meetings to be seen as an effective leader? In this coaching session with Jen and Julie, we explore how to create executive presence while staying true to your natural style.

Julie Binter is the Founder of Clear The Way Coaching & Consulting, a company focused on helping leaders, teams, and organizations “get better at the people stuff”. As a highly accomplished leadership coach, facilitator, speaker, and trusted advisor with over 15 years of experience, she partners with people who want to increase their effectiveness, navigate change, and achieve professional and personal success.

In this monthly coaching episode, Jen and Julie tackle a common leadership challenge: how to maintain presence in meetings when you’re naturally more reserved. We explore the case of a successful senior manager who’s concerned that her thoughtful, processing style might be limiting her leadership presence compared to more vocal colleagues.

The discussion dives deep into practical strategies, from preparing targeted questions before meetings to building influence through one-on-one relationships. Julie challenges assumptions about what “good leadership” looks like and offers insights on balancing authentic style with organizational expectations.

This episode offers valuable strategies for leaders wrestling with similar challenges in their organizations. Whether you’re questioning your meeting presence or looking to advance, this episode provides practical strategies for making meaningful contributions.

Key Highlights

• Question whether being the loudest voice is truly effective leadership in your organization’s culture
• Prepare for meetings by developing strategic questions that showcase your insight
• Build influence through one-on-one relationships outside of meetings
• Stay present in meetings rather than getting caught up in comparison or self-doubt
• Set yourself up for success by understanding what senior leaders value in terms of participation
• Manage emotional reactions that can block effective participation
• Recognize when to stretch beyond natural tendencies while remaining authentic
• Use curiosity as a tool to stay engaged and contribute meaningfully

Guest Bio

Julie is the Founder of Clear The Way Coaching & Consulting, a company focused on helping leaders, teams, and organizations “get better at the people stuff”. As a highly accomplished leadership coach, facilitator, speaker, and trusted advisor with over 15 years of experience, she partners with people who want to increase their effectiveness, navigate change, and achieve professional and personal success. She is deeply committed to ensuring everyone can incorporate new knowledge and skills into “real life” and thrive in today’s working environment.

Julie holds an M.A. in Organizational Development & Leadership from Fielding Graduate University and a B.A. in Sociology from University of Minnesota. She’s an ICF credentialed coach, a certified emotional intelligence assessor and facilitator, and holds certifications in several other individual, team, and leader assessments. She brings a diverse perspective from her leadership and learning roles within corporate, public sector, and nonprofit organizations spanning several industries.

Julie lives in Phoenix with her husband David and their large rescue dog Watson. She loves to travel internationally, relies on nature to stay grounded, and is working toward being fit until she turns 100. 

You can connect with Julie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliebinter/