Executive Presence

About the Author

Sylvia Ann Hewlett is a distinguished economist, author, and a prominent voice on issues of workplace diversity and inclusion. She founded the Center for Talent Innovation, a think tank dedicated to addressing challenges faced by diverse talent in corporate environments. Hewlett has authored several influential books, including "Forget a Mentor, Find a Sponsor" and "Executive Presence," which explore the intricacies of leadership and career advancement. Her work is widely recognized for its practical insights and data-driven analysis, helping organizations and individuals navigate the complexities of modern professional landscapes.

Main Idea

In "Executive Presence: The Missing Link Between Merit and Success," Sylvia Ann Hewlett delves into the concept of Executive Presence (EP) as a crucial factor in achieving professional success. She argues that beyond technical skills and qualifications, professionals need to develop a presence that signals leadership potential. EP is a blend of gravitas, communication, and appearance, which together convey an individual's capability and readiness for leadership roles. The book provides actionable strategies to develop these elements, thereby bridging the gap between merit and career advancement.

Table of Contents

1. Introduction: Understanding Executive Presence
2. Gravitas: The Core of Executive Presence
3. Communication: Commanding Attention and Respect
4. Appearance: The Visual Impact of Leadership
5. Feedback: Gaining Insight to Improve EP
6. Navigating the Tightrope: Authenticity vs. Conformity
7. Conclusion: The Journey to Executive Presence

Introduction: Understanding Executive Presence

Executive Presence (EP) is an essential quality that distinguishes effective leaders from others. Hewlett explains that EP is not merely about one's performance or qualifications; it is about the image and impression one projects. This presence can be seen in how a person carries themselves, communicates, and appears. "Executive presence is not a measure of performance; it's a measure of image," Hewlett asserts, emphasizing that the perception others have of us can significantly impact our career trajectories.

Gravitas: The Core of Executive Presence

Gravitas is the foundation of EP and is often the most challenging aspect to cultivate. It refers to the weight and seriousness with which one is perceived, encapsulating confidence, decisiveness, integrity, emotional intelligence, reputation, and vision. Hewlett describes gravitas as the ability to project calm and competence, especially during crises, and to make tough decisions. These traits inspire confidence and trust in others, marking an individual as a leader.

"Gravitas is what signals to the world you’re made of the right stuff and can be entrusted with serious responsibility." — Sylvia Ann Hewlett

The six key aspects of gravitas are: