Executive Presence is an insightful and actionable overview of the most essential components of a successful leader's presence.

Whether you want to succeed in a corporate environment, politics, or as a performer, you need adequate skills and qualifications.

But are these what matters most?

Sylvia Hewlett would not agree with you.

While doing nationwide research for Executive Presence: The Missing Link Between Merit and Success, Hewlett found that the one thing that is more important than your merits is your presence.

By 'presence,' she means the unique, distinguishable quality you bring into any room just by entering it.

Hewlett claims that this trait is the make-or-break factor for whether others will see you as worth following.

The concept of 'presence' may sound confusing and undefinable at first.

That's why Hewlett wrote this book.

She examines the main elements of a successful executive presence (EP).

The examination focuses on a range of opinions from people in various sectors and occupations.

Hewlett identifies three main components of a compelling EP: your gravitas (how you act), your communication (how you speak), and your appearance (what you look like).