Talk to me about gravitas

[bodgersmash]

In the workplace.

I'm going for a new role and I really want it. Another candidate is over 20 years older than me. I know the other candidate, I know I am at least as capable. But I worry that I lack gravitas/credibility until people get to know me and realise that actually I am very knowledgable and good at my job. I think this is taken more as a given with older and (people assume) more experienced employees.

I'm small in height, blonde, young-ish looking and I don't think these things help but I could be wrong.

How can I convey a bit of an air of "I'm good, take me seriously" at an interview, and more generally at work?

I don't know. When I was younger I was told I had presence; now people saybI need your gravitas at this meeting.

I don't know how I had it, certainly didn't feel confident and was always an observer. Someone once said "you don't say much but you're worth listening to when you do".

But stand up straight, observe, be immaculate both in personal and work presentation. Do what needs to be done for positive impact.

I found that slowing down (my naturally very fast paced) speech helped. Eye-contact (I know that’s obvious but I’m bad at it).

Slow, calm, low speech. Expect to be taken seriously.

Interesting DeLurking. I have been told I speak slowly - just me though.

Have a look at patsy Rodenberg on presence and third circle on YouTube.
Also amy cuddy on body language

Expect to be taken seriously.

This, absolutely. But be warm and friendly too, look like you can fit in with a team.