The Hidden Factor: Executive Presence

By: Sally Williamson

Narrated by: Sally Williamson

Within the qualities of effective leadership lies the more elusive concept of executive presence. Some define it as an aura; others say it is swagger and the ability to command a room. Still others say it is authenticity and personal confidence. Most often, it is the deciding factor in top-level promotions.

The Hidden Factor defines what executive presence really is, how you get it, and how it can be leveraged to define a leader better than any other quality being measured. Executive presence has always existed, but in recent years, it has resurfaced as a hot topic among C-Suite executives, succession planners, and development officers. It is one of the top qualities evaluated in potential leaders and is often the missing component that limits promotion.

Through surveys and in-depth interviews with over 400 executives, we validated a range of presence attributes and the impact of those attributes in corporate settings. The interviews offered access to top executive's stories and their thoughts on presence across their careers. Their insights combined with our coaching expertise offer an in-depth look at the concept of presence and your ability to use this hidden factor to get ahead in any organization.

©2011 Sally Williamson (P)2015 Sally Williamson

Great read ! Please include chapter for rising executives that are people of color

Would love a separate chapter on executive presence for people of color just like you did on Women. I think they navigate unique challenges .
Thanks for a really engaging book . I learnt a lot from it .

SK

Before Covid this was more relevant

There are more virtual meetings these days. Therefore, we could use more guidance navigating a virtual leadership role now.

Contains coachable skills tips

If you could sum up The Hidden Factor: Executive Presence in three words, what would they be?

Coachable skills first

What did you like best about this story?

I liked that the book contains advice that can be immediately implemented.

Which scene was your favorite?

Chapter 19 "For Women Only" touched a chord with me because - of course - I have done what she advises women not to do.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes, it is an easy read. You might want to listen a second time and take notes.

I wish I listened to this book 10 years ago.

This book has a lot of good advise. I am going to be listening to it few more times.

Good, but could use more depth

Author clearly knew her stuff, but would have liked a more in depth discussion on the topics and how to implement them.