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hertelier x Yvonne Joseph: Elevating Black Women in Hospitality Leadership
In honor of Black History Month, hertelier is thrilled to collaborate with Yvonne Joseph on a special series dedicated to empowering Black women in the hotel industry. We recognize that while the hospitality industry is making strides in diversity, Black women are still underrepresented in executive roles. This initiative isn’t just about highlighting the challenges—it’s about providing actionable strategies to break through barriers and lead with confidence.
That said, the insights Yvonne shares here aren’t exclusive to Black women. Any woman looking to level up her career, amplify her influence, and cultivate executive presence will find this guide invaluable!
Why Executive Presence is a Game-Changer
You walk into a room—a meeting full of decision-makers, a high-stakes conference, a leadership roundtable.
Some people blend into the background—their voices unheard, their presence unnoticed.
Others own the room before they even speak.
What’s the difference? Executive presence.
For Black women in leadership, executive presence isn’t just a skill—it’s a necessity. It’s the ability to project confidence, influence decisions, and be recognized as the leader you already are.
Yet, too often, Black women in leadership are told:
“Be assertive, but not too aggressive.”
“Speak up, but don’t be too opinionated.”
“Take charge, but don’t intimidate others.”
The same traits that make male leaders "bold" and "powerful" are often labeled "too much" when embodied by women of color.
So, how do you command respect, influence decisions, and own your presence—without compromising who you are?
Let’s break it down.
The Three Pillars of Executive Presence
Executive presence isn’t about status or titles. It’s about how people experience you as a leader.
The most influential Black women in leadership master these three areas:
1. Gravitas: The Power of Authority & Confidence
Gravitas is the unshakable confidence that makes people trust your leadership. It’s the ability to handle pressure, own your expertise, and make decisions with authority.
Example: Stacey Abrams—whether on a political stage or in a boardroom, she commands attention with her poise, clarity, and confidence.
How to Apply This:
✔ Speak with conviction—avoid fillers like “I think” or “maybe.”
✔ Own your expertise—don’t downplay your accomplishments.
✔ Stay composed under pressure—leaders who remain calm win respect.
2. Communication: How You Speak & Engage with Others
The most influential leaders know how to articulate their ideas clearly and persuasively. It’s not just what you say—it’s how you say it.
Example: Bozoma Saint John—her communication style is bold, charismatic, and unapologetically authentic.
How to Apply This:
✔ Pause before you speak—confidence isn’t about rushing to respond.
✔ Use storytelling to make your points more memorable.
✔ Adapt your communication style to command attention in any room.
3. Image & Presence: How You Show Up Matters
Executive presence is also about non-verbal signals—body language, personal style, and the energy you bring into a room.
Example: Mellody Hobson—her polished, powerful presence makes her a sought-after voice in global business.
How to Apply This:
✔ Walk into every room with purpose—posture, eye contact, and confidence matter.
✔ Dress in a way that aligns with your brand and leadership position.
✔ Be intentional about how you introduce yourself and engage with others.
Breaking Through the Barriers: Challenges Black Women Face in Executive Presence
Despite their talent, Black women in leadership often face unique barriers:
🚧 Stereotypes & Bias → The “too aggressive” or “too passive” trap.
🚧 Lack of Representation → Few Black women in top executive roles means fewer role models.
🚧 Pressure to Overperform → Constantly proving expertise instead of being recognized for it.
Instead of shrinking to fit outdated expectations, elevate your presence on your own terms.
How Black Women Leaders Can Own the Room with Presence & Influence
Now that you know the three pillars of executive presence, here’s how to implement them:
1. Speak Up with Authority
🔹 In meetings, don’t wait for permission to contribute.
🔹 If someone interrupts, reclaim your space: “I’d like to finish my point.”
🔹 Use confident body language—lean in, make eye contact, and own your space.
2. Build Your Leadership Brand Beyond the Office
🔹 Engage on LinkedIn, in media, and at conferences—don’t limit your presence to your workplace.
🔹 Position yourself as a go-to voice in your industry by sharing insights.
🔹 Speak at events, panels, or start writing about your expertise.
3. Cultivate Strategic Relationships
🔹 Connect with decision-makers who can elevate your leadership influence.
🔹 Join leadership circles, advisory boards, and executive networks.
🔹 Surround yourself with people who advocate for you in rooms you’re not in.
Visibility + Executive Presence = Unstoppable Leadership
The most powerful Black women in leadership didn’t wait to be recognized.
They made their presence undeniable.
Here’s the truth:
✨ If you don’t show up, the industry will move forward without you.
✨ If you don’t own your space, someone else will define it for you.
✨ If you don’t claim your influence, leadership doors will remain closed.
The world needs more Black women in leadership. Not just working behind the scenes—but commanding the rooms where decisions are made.
Yvonne Joseph is an Independent Brand Consultant & Strategic Advisor specializing in leadership positioning, executive visibility, and industry influence for women in tourism. She helps high-profile executives, policymakers, and industry pioneers position themselves as credible, visible, and influential leaders—ensuring that women in tourism are not just in leadership but are recognized as the global voices shaping the industry.