– By Salman Z Qureshi
Let’s be real: leadership isn’t just about strategy, KPIs, or quarterly targets. It’s a performance. Every time you step into a boardroom, onto a stage, or even into a one-on-one meeting—you’re on. People aren’t just listening to what you say; they’re tuned into how you say it.
As someone who’s spent years on both corporate stages and actual ones, I’ve learned that charisma, presence, and storytelling aren’t mystical traits you’re born with—they’re skills. And like all skills, they can be learned, practiced, and mastered.
I still remember my first time walking into a client’s boardroom to run an improv-based leadership workshop. It was a room full of serious suits, arms folded, faces skeptical. I felt the pressure. But instead of defaulting to slides and buzzwords, I leaned into the same principles I’d use on stage: I connected with the room, read the energy, shared something personal, and adjusted in real time. Within minutes, the dynamic changed. People leaned in. They laughed. They started playing. That moment reminded me: presence builds trust faster than any title ever could.
So what makes someone magnetic when they speak? Here are a few things I’ve picked up from the stage that every leader can use:
Own the pause – Most people rush to fill silence. But a deliberate pause can draw people in and give weight to your words. On stage, silence isn’t dead air—it’s tension, intention, and impact.
Lead with your body – Long before we speak, we’re being read. Grounded posture, open gestures, and purposeful movement help you look confident—even if your inner monologue is panicking.
React, don’t recite – Whether you’re dealing with a tough question or a sudden curveball, reacting in the moment with authenticity builds more credibility than reciting a rehearsed script.
If that sounds like something you’d like to explore, we’ve designed a one-day workshop called Stagecraft for Leaders. It brings together professionals from different industries to play, learn, and practice the kind of presence that turns good leaders into memorable ones.
Because in the end, people don’t just follow ideas—they follow the person bringing them to life.
Salman Qureshi
Salman Z Qureshi is a Dubai-based actor, comedian, and improvisation instructor. He is recognized for his engaging performances and his ability to connect with audiences through humour and storytelling. He also hosts a comedic podcast titled “Expat Brat,” where he discusses global events with a humorous twist.
In addition to his work in entertainment, Salman is Learning & Development Specialist at The Courtyard Playhouse, where he teaches improvisation classes and leads corporate training sessions aimed at helping individuals overcome their inner critic and embrace spontaneity . His approach to teaching is influenced by the principles of Keith Johnstone, focusing on warmth, friendliness, and a down-to-earth attitude.
