Some people have it, some people don’t, but all of us can fake it. We’re talking presence, we’re talking charisma, we’re talking standing out in a crowd. What is it about these impressive characters that make you stop and look when they walk into a room? How do they manage to command attention without even trying?

From business meetings to first dates, job interviews to simple conversations, standing out in a crowd is easy when you know how. Be it clever trickery or genuine skill, here’s how to capture the magic of the effortlessly enigmatic:

1. Take a stand

There’s no better way to feel confident and in control than by standing or sitting up straight. It’s an instant quick fix. Tummy in, shoulders back, chin up – there are lots of ways to better your posture. If you find it a bit of a struggle and feel more comfortable slouching, try some exercises to improve your posture . You’ll instantly feel more alert and will stand out in people’s minds.

2. Exude confidence

There’s something enticing and instantly appealing about someone who’s calmly aware of their own self-worth and is totally confident in their own skin. Whatever you call them – social butterflies, peacocks – they seem to attract interesting people like magnets. Want to know how to build self-confidence? It all comes from self-belief. Buy a book packed with self-confidence tips and try some confidence building activities. You’ll be amazed what a difference it makes.

3. Get passionate

As well as confidence, there’s a lot to be said for passion. If you’re passionate about what you do and what you believe in – and team it with the confidence to express it – you’ll stand out for it. Don’t be afraid of thinking independently and letting your views and opinions be known. People will be interested to hear what you have to say. It’s a great way to make a strong impression. Try it - people will definitely remember your name.

5. Dress the part

They say it’s what’s on the inside that counts and to a certain extent that’s true.

But it’s no good knowing how to gain self-confidence and which posture correction exercises to do if your appearance says otherwise. We’re just talking about looking and feeling comfortable and confident, so you stand out in a crowd for all the right reasons. Wear well-fitting clothes that suit your body type, colouring and personality, and change things up for different occasions. Show people who you are, and they’ll notice you for it.

6. Be original

Whether you’re in a face-to-face situation or are communicating via email or letter, it’s essential you come across as original, to ensure you stand out from the crowd. Ever read a dull book or magazine article? It’s doubtful you’ll even remember the author’s name - and if you do it’ll be for all the wrong reasons. From CVs to job interviews, business communications to presentations, date night to negotiating a massively important deal, a little originality works wonders.

7. Master the balancing act

With your physical presence sorted and your confidence sky high, a word to the wise about how you present your amazingness to others; coming across as capable and in control is a definite ‘yes’. Be good at what you do, know who you are, have passion and communicate all this through a carefully balanced blend of physicality, personality, presence and inner confidence. Standing out a crowd is all about mutual respect.