Energy Spectrum of Communication: The Invisible Forcefield Shaping Every Interaction

Energy

It can be your biggest game changer. Whether it’s confident, anxious, calm, or enthusiastic, it sets the tone for any interaction. Have you noticed how if you go out on a day when you’re feeling confident and positive, everyone seems to reflect your mood? It’ll be smiles and after you’s, all round. Equally if you’re feeling foul, the whole world will seem to be set against you. This is because we are constantly giving off signals with our energy, and people, with who we come into contact, subconsciously pick up, mirror and respond to it.

Our dog Elsa Bear was a case in point. She was a stray that we found as a tiny puppy on the streets of Italy. She was magnificent to look at, but was of indeterminate breed; coming from the mountains of Campania she could well have been a “canelupo” - literally, a wolfdog - as wolves lived in the area until fairly recently. She exuded total control walking round the parks of north London, and dogs would react to her, some wanting to take her on, most wanting to give her a wide berth. Some of it may have been scent, but it was also how she moved and took on the world, never backing down. Her energy screamed, “watch out, here I come!” She had few friends, most of them human, many detractors, but she was undoubtedly charismatic.

And it is our energy, the invisible forcefield around us that shapes our charisma. The word itself comes from the Greek word “charis”, which means grace, favour, or divine gift. In ancient Greek culture it referred to a kind of blessing or favour from the gods that made someone exceptionally attractive, persuasive, or influential. Over time it also took on the spiritual connotation of a quality that was beyond mere personality - a personal magnetism that draws people in. In leadership terms, this is a force that inspires and influences others which is a blend of confidence, presence, and the ability to connect with people.

But as with Elsa, this energy can be positive or negative. If she liked you, she was the sweetest, but if she took against you - usually because you showed fear - she could be dangerous. This reminds me of some of the craziness that is going on in the world, right now, leaders displaying toxic charisma. Rather than using their energy to inspire and uplift, creating trust in their vision, and encouraging people to connect and feel valued, we are seeing how destructive our energy can be when it becomes negative.

Then it becomes autocratic - an overwhelming and intimidating energy which feels aggressive and manipulative. This type of charisma is not about influencing for the greater good and carrying people with you, but using it to dominate and overpower, for selfish and unethical ends.

How do we as leaders make sure that we don’t fall into this trap? Firstly, we need the self- awareness to understand how our energy impacts others. We have to assess the sort of energy needed in each context and adjust ours accordingly. Meetings, presentations, and 1:1’s all call for their own type of energy, depending on those present and what’s being discussed. We want to uplift rather than overpower and for this we need empathy to tune into what’s needed, and adaptability to adjust our energy based on the situation.

Energy is the invisible force that shapes our charisma, influencing how we captivate and inspire those around us. It is not just about physical vitality but also the emotional and mental presence we bring to interactions. When we radiate enthusiasm, confidence, and positivity, people are naturally drawn to us, sensing our vibrancy and passion. A strong, uplifting energy can make even ordinary words seem profound, while a lackluster presence can dull the impact of even the most insightful ideas. Charisma is not merely about appearance or eloquence—it is about the energy we exude, the spark in our eyes, and the conviction in our voice that makes others want to listen, engage, and connect.

Harnessing Your Energy for Confident, Compassionate Communication 

Have you ever walked into a conversation feeling tense, only to notice that the interaction feels equally strained? Or, conversely, have you entered a discussion with a calm, open presence and seen how it naturally invites warmth and understanding? This is the power of energy in communication. Understanding and managing our energy is key to cultivating both confidence and compassion in our interactions with others.

The Energy We Bring to Conversations

Energy is more than just physical stamina; it is the emotional and mental state we carry into our interactions. When we are mindful of our energy, we become more attuned to how our words and body language affect those around us. If we bring anxious, defensive, or hurried energy, it can create resistance in conversations. On the other hand, when we project a sense of ease, self-assurance, and openness, it encourages trust and connection.

Confidence Through Energy Awareness

Confidence is often associated with knowledge, experience, or charisma, but at its core, it stems from how we regulate our internal energy. When we are centered and present, we communicate with greater clarity and conviction. Simple practices like grounding ourselves through deep breathing, setting an intention before speaking, and maintaining an open posture can help regulate our energy and convey confidence naturally.

Compassion as an Energy Exchange 

Compassionate communication requires tuning into not only our own energy but also the energy of others. When we listen with presence and genuine curiosity, we create a safe space for others to express themselves. This involves softening our energy, practicing patience, and responding with empathy rather than reaction. Recognizing when someone else’s energy is tense or defensive allows us to adjust our approach, helping to de- escalate conflicts and foster deeper understanding.

If you find this difficult, you’re not alone! At Vermillion we help clients bring out their authentic voice and develop a compelling charismatic presence with their energy.

Practical Ways to Align Your Energy

• Practice mindfulness: Regular mindfulness or meditation can help cultivate awareness of your emotional state before entering conversations.

• Breathe before speaking: A deep breath can reset your energy and create space for a thoughtful response.

• Set an intention: Ask yourself, “How do I want to show up in this conversation?”

• Listen with presence: Give full attention, without distractions or preemptive judgments.

By mastering our energy, we enhance our ability to communicate with both confidence and compassion, leading to richer, more meaningful relationships.