Setting the Stage for Impact
On July 2, 2025, the IBPAP Women in Action (WIA) x John Clements Executive Presence Masterclass brought together senior leaders from the IT-BPM industry for an energizing afternoon of growth, dialogue, and leadership programs.
The event took place at the Van Gogh Room in JC Hub, LKG Tower, Makati City. Attendees represented leading organizations such as Accenture, IBM, Genpact, Infosys, Carelon, DXC Technology, Acutate Builders, Prople BPO, and IBPAP. Maria Carolina V. Dominguez, President and CEO of John Clements Consultants, Inc., was present throughout the session, not just to welcome guests, but to demonstrate her support in person.
A Call to Lead with Purpose
The session opened with a deeply personal message from IBPAP Chairperson Ma. Rhodora “Ayhee” Campos, who also serves as Country Head and Business Head of Infosys BPM Philippines and Malaysia.
She recalled a defining moment in 2022 when she noticed she was the only woman in a board election photo. That realization sparked a determination to create pathways for other women to rise in leadership. Through the shared vision of committed allies, this experience helped give birth to Women in Action—a platform designed to build capabilities through impactful leadership programs.
Executive Presence Is Learnable
Michael Cannon of the John Clements Leadership Institute (JCLI) facilitated the session, delivering a powerful message: executive presence is not reserved for a select few—it can be learned.
He emphasized that leadership presence is less about what you say and more about how you show up. Research he shared revealed that 93 percent of a speaker’s influence comes from non-verbal cues: 55 percent body language, 38 percent vocal quality, and only 7 percent from actual words.
The message was clear: developing presence means being intentional in how you prepare, communicate, and engage.
Practical Tools for Elevated Delivery
Michael introduced the “6 Ps”- Prior Planning and Practice Prevents Poor Performance.
He coached participants on:
- Using visual aids with a purpose
- Avoiding jargon
- Building trust through consistent eye contact
- Delivering messages with clarity and confidence
He also underscored critical moments of presence: arriving early, opening with impact, and ending on a strong note.
Growth Through Practice and Feedback
The afternoon included a practical exercise that invited each participant to deliver a two-minute personal presentation.
What followed was real-time feedback—not only from Michael, but from peers who offered honest but encouraging observations. This created a learning environment built on trust, where participants could discover and address their blind spots with grace and support.
Golden Rules for a Stronger Presence
To wrap up, Michael shared his “10 Golden Rules” for impactful delivery, including techniques for vocal variety, time management, and audience engagement.
More than a checklist, these reminders served as an accessible toolkit—one that leaders can apply immediately in everyday interactions.
Creating Lasting Change
This masterclass was more than just a learning session. It was a reminder that leadership can be redefined, reshaped, and reowned—especially by women who are ready to take the lead.
With the right mindset and support, elevating one’s executive presence becomes not just possible but transformative. The WIA initiative continues to champion that transformation, one empowered leader at a time.
Join the growing community of women and allies who are reshaping what leadership looks like—and leading with intention.
Ready to elevate your team’s leadership potential? Discover how our leadership programs can drive lasting impact. Reach out to us today: https://johnclements.com/contact-us/
