Pourquoi eux ? Les secrets d'une ascension [Why them? The secrets behind a rise]

What lies behind the success of some leaders? What factors explain why, starting their careers with comparable education and training, they reach the top, while others peak at the middle management levels?

The author conducted a survey among current executives and HR directors. From the voluminous feedback collected, he discerns variables which, in retrospect, are perceived as having been differentiating. More than technical skills, it is by far the personal human qualities that appear to be the primary distinguishing factor—in particular the ability to make decisions, courage, and resistance to stress. Motivation and interpersonal qualities come immediately next, followed closely by family support and work-life balance. Finally, professional capabilities and networking strategy appear to be less essential. Throughout the book, the realities of the senior executive role emerge. Readers will thus deduce how to better prepare themselves to exercise these important managerial duties.

A lively book that challenges some common preconceptions.