Let’s face it—as a man, everything you do is somehow connected to gaining respect. Whether it’s in your career, dating life, or social circles, being taken seriously isn’t just a “nice to have”—it’s a must. If people dismiss you the moment you walk into a room or open your mouth, how are you ever going to move the needle in life?
This isn’t about acting tough or being arrogant. This is about self-mastery. So let’s break down how to be taken seriously as a man—starting now.
1. Fix Your Damn Body Language
Your posture speaks before you do. If you slouch like a timid intern or fold into yourself like origami, people won’t just ignore you—they’ll subconsciously downgrade you. Brett Maverick says it best: “Weak, closed-off, supplicative body language guarantees you don’t get taken seriously.”
✅ Stand tall. Chest out. Shoulders back. Eyes forward.
That simple shift screams confidence before you even say a word.
2. Dress Like You Deserve Respect
You’ve never seen a respected general, king, or CEO roll into a room looking like they just rolled out of bed. Clothes tell people how to treat you—so tell them you’re the boss.
Brett uses this example: Would you rather follow a guy who dresses like Winston Churchill or one who looks like your drunk uncle at a BBQ? Exactly.
Bonus tip: Invest in tools like the Slick Collar (yes, Brett’s sponsor but actually a game-changer) to keep your shirts crisp and your appearance polished.
3. Speak Clearly Like You Mean It
We’re living in the era of mumble culture—and it’s ruining your presence. If you speak like you’re chewing on a marshmallow, no one’s going to lean in and listen.
“Slow down. Enunciate. Speak with volume and purpose.”
When you speak clearly, people assume you know what you’re talking about—even before they hear what you’re saying.
4. Stop Joking About Everything
Yes, humor is attractive. But if everything that comes out of your mouth is a joke, people will label you one: a clown. And guess what? Clowns don’t get respect—they get laughs at their expense.
Keep it 90/10. Be serious 90% of the time, and sprinkle in humor like hot sauce—just enough to add flavor, not ruin the whole dish.
5. Cut the Hyperbole
You’re not doing yourself any favors when your stories sound like a Marvel movie. People respect the truth—even if it’s plain. So ditch the over-the-top exaggerations and master the art of engaging storytelling instead. Be the guy who captivates a room with the real stuff, not fantasy fiction.
6. Don’t Be Afraid to Disagree
If you’re always nodding and agreeing with everyone like a bobblehead, no one’s going to see you as a leader. Strong men have strong opinions—and they aren’t afraid to voice them respectfully.
Standing firm in your beliefs (without being a jerk) is one of the quickest ways to be seen as someone with backbone—and that’s crucial if you’re learning how to be taken seriously.
7. Stay Calm—Especially Under Pressure
If you lose your cool every time someone challenges you, you’re showing them your emotions are stronger than you are. Instead, channel that inner stoic energy. Stay calm. Stay grounded.
“We respect the guy who doesn’t flinch, who stays cool and composed. That’s the guy who gets taken seriously.”
Respect Starts With Purpose
Learning how to be taken seriously is about developing habits that communicate confidence, competence, and composure. But here’s the deal—it all starts with having a purpose.
👉 If you’re serious about leveling up not just how others see you—but how you see yourself—check out our blog on How to Be a High Value Man in 2025. It goes hand-in-hand with everything we just covered and dives deeper into becoming a man of value.
Final Word: You’re either taken seriously—or you’re taken lightly. Start building the version of yourself that walks into a room and makes people sit up a little straighter.
Until next time, stay sharp.
