30 November 2023

Think You’re Cut Out to Be a Leader? Discover Your Executive Presence and Find Out

By Ronald Smith

If you want to leave a lasting impression on the world, you’ve gotta have that special something – Executive Presence. It’s a timeless guide to leadership that dives deep into the experiences of countless executives, uncovering the secrets to becoming a truly successful leader.

Think You're Cut Out to Be a Leader? Discover Your Executive Presence and Find Out

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Have you ever wondered what makes some people excel in their careers while others struggle to make progress?

I recently received a copy of Sylvia Ann Hewlett’s book, Executive Presence: The Missing Link Between Merit and Success. Hewlett defines executive presence as a special quality that is crucial for climbing the career ladder, and I can’t wait to share her insights with you.

While having executive presence won’t automatically guarantee a promotion, lacking it can definitely hinder your progress towards achieving your leadership goals.

Executive Presence: The Secret to Success

So, you know how people always say that leadership can be learned? Well, Sylvia Ann Hewlett is here to tell you the truth – there’s actually something special that you need to have in order to make it. Some people seem to have it effortlessly, while the rest of us have to work hard to gain that thing called Executive Presence.

Believe it or not, even the author herself didn’t have Executive Presence when she first started her academic and professional journey. Want proof? Just read the introduction where she talks about her Oxford interview and her fox collar suit.

  1. Gravitas (How you act.)
  2. Communication (How you speak.)
  3. Appearance (How you look.)

It’s not really surprising, though, since your mom has probably been telling you the same things since you were a little kid and going out in public.

    Here’s what I’ve come up with:

  • Did you know that communication is responsible for 28% of success?
  • And appearance plays a part, too, with 5%.

When it comes to leadership, there’s one thing that sets some people apart. It’s a special mix of confidence, grace, and being true to yourself.

Want to Achieve Executive Presence? Follow These Seven Steps:

  • Chapter 1: What does it mean to have Executive Presence?
  • Chapter 2: The Power of Gravitas
  • Chapter 3: The Key to Effective Communication
  • Chapter 4: The Impact of Appearance
  • Chapter 5: Learning from Feedback Mistakes
  • Chapter 6: Balancing Act: Navigating Tricky Situations
  • Chapter 7: Be Authentic, Never Conform

Each chapter is packed with real-life examples from famous companies, brands, and people you’ve seen on the news. As you dive into the world of Executive Presence with Hewlett, you’ll find those aha moments that make everything click.

  • Surround yourself with people who are better than you.
  • Share credit generously.
  • Stick to what you know.
  • Show humility.
  • Keep smiling.
  • Empower others to build your own presence.
  • Turn defeat into victory.
  • Drive change instead of being changed.

For each suggestion, I’ll give you inspiring examples that will make you excited to increase your confidence and enhance your own presence.

Sylvia Ann Hewlett is the embodiment of Executive Presence.

I absolutely love this book because it’s so honest, direct, and humble. Hewlett shares her own personal experiences with Executive Presence (and the lack thereof) in such a genuine way. From the very beginning of the book, she tells the story of her failed Oxford interview and takes us on a journey to her ultimate success as a professor, author, and expert who’s been featured on countless shows. Hewlett weaves her research and personal experiences together to inspire and motivate you.

Sylvia, the author, is also the founding president of the Center for Talent Innovation, a think-tank in Manhattan that helps companies and professionals reach their full potential. She’s written several amazing books and has appeared on popular shows like Oprah, The View, and 60 Minutes.

Executive Presence Takes Its Place Among the Best Business Books

Executive Presence is not just any ordinary book about leadership or management. Let me tell you, it’s a real game-changer, and mark my words, it’s bound to become a timeless masterpiece. Everyone, and I mean everyone, should read this book – from business students to entrepreneurs, small business owners, and even corporate employees like you and me.

And here’s an exciting bonus: If you sign up for an Audible Premium Plus membership, you can get amazing discounts and special offers on both new and classic business books. Trust me, it’s an opportunity you don’t want to miss. So why wait? Learn more and create your account today!