Gravitas... What is it? Do you have it? How to demonstrate it at interview

When describing their ideal candidate, the most frequent adjective I get asked for in my candidates is “gravitas,” but what does that really mean and how do you portray it at interview?

The dictionary definition of gravitas surprised me. According to the Oxford Dictionary it’s “Dignity, seriousness, or solemnity of manner.” I’m not sure that this is the right term. I’m confident that my clients don’t want a solemn, serious face brought in to inspire their business or drive growth. I’m not being contrite, I know what they mean and what they want, but what does gravitas really mean in the context of appointing a business leader?

I asked some respected colleagues about what gravitas meant to them:

“A deep routed confidence without arrogance. The ability to challenge without being unnecessarily adversarial.”