Several years ago a manager in a client company observed that a colleague "had his swagger back." The individual in question had overcome a number of work challenges and now had considerable zip in his step. So why is this important? People judge us on how they perceive us on a daily basis. How people see us is especially important during difficult economic times when layoffs and reorganizations are common. I know that some readers might be thinking, "This sounds so phony." However, I would encourage you to consider the dictionary definition of swagger, "To walk with a lofty, proud gait."

A prominent healthcare executive described to me the connection of perception to leadership effectiveness with the following story. She was observed walking to the parking garage after a long day at work and appeared to be very preoccupied. The truth is she was thinking about a dinner party she was planning for the next weekend. The employee who observed this executive quickly spread the news that there must be a serious problem facing the institution because the executive looked worried. That observation spread rapidly to every department and eventually made its way back to the executive. The moral of this story, she stated, is that as a leader you must always be aware of how you are perceived, "Don't ever lose your swagger."

Need more proof. Consider the talent review meetings held by most large organizations and chaired by the human resources department. The current leadership team for each function is reviewed with inputs from the next higher level of management. Each leader attending the meeting is asked to comment on his or her perception of the people being reviewed and their potential replacements. When your name comes up what will people say? What will be their perceptions of you? Now understand that not everyone will have significant first-hand experience with you. They will however, have observed you in meetings, presentations and in the corridors of the organization.

Maintaining your swagger is all about self-management. We all have bad days, struggles and disappointments. Rise above these difficulties and put a smile on your face. People, including our managers, want to be around positive, upbeat employees. So don't lose your swagger, especially in these difficult economic times.