Executive Presence 2.0: Leadership in an Age of Inclusion

Nearly a decade ago, economist Sylvia Ann Hewlett cracked the code of executive presence (EP). Drawing on complex data and in-depth interviews with senior executives from sectors as different as finance and fashion, she demonstrated that EP is a potent mix of gravitas, powerful business communication, and appearance.

Executive Presence became a classic. Translated into seven languages, it’s helped tens of thousands of ambitious, accomplished professionals to fast-track their careers. Chuck Robbins (CEO of Cisco), and Thasunda Brown Duckett (CEO, TIAA), are among the leaders who recommend this book for any up-and-comer seeking to rise through the ranks and do something extraordinary with their lives.

But EP has evolved. Black Lives Matter, the #MeToo movement, and a global pandemic have changed the leadership equation. But how? To answer that question, in 2022, Hewlett embarked on a second round of quantitative and qualitative research, targeting seasoned leaders and thirty-something-year-old executives at the cutting edge of the new economy (fin-tech, gaming, media). Her findings are timely as new executives find their feet in a post-pandemic world.

Hewlett demonstrates that in 2023 leaders worldwide seek to promote high-performing men and women who exude confidence but also project authenticity and inclusivity. They’re also intent on advancing those who have mastered virtual leadership, excel at leading remote teams, and demonstrate a command of social media. It’s no coincidence that Eddie Glaude, Amanda Gorman, and Gustavo Dudamel are stars of this new edition of Executive Presence and the usual suspects.

Hewlett’s most potent message, ten years ago and now, is that EP is eminently learnable. You don’t need to have the voice of James Earl Jones, the communication skills of Steve Jobs, or the athleticism of Michelle Obama to ace EP. You merely have to arm yourself with the tools and tactics for lasting career advancement contained in these pages.  

This updated framework for modern leadership delivers:

• Post-Pandemic Leadership: Move beyond outdated models with new research on what matters now—from commanding a Zoom room to fostering psychological safety in hybrid environments.
• Authentic and Inclusive Presence: Learn why authenticity and inclusivity are now central to gravitas, and how to project them in every interaction as today’s workplace demands.
• A New Model for Communication: Master the updated pillars of communication and appearance for a world shaped by social media and virtual-first impressions.
• A Learnable Framework: Discover why executive presence is a skill you can build, with practical tools and tactics to fast-track your career and do something extraordinary with your life.