Executive Presence Assessment Tool

Category: Communication Behavior – Demonstrating consistency

Q: An effective leader clearly expresses his/her brand, ensuring constant visibility and acting in a way that consistently reinforces that brand.

A: 

1. At ease advocating for herself or himself
2. Expresses his/her brand the same way across all communication channels
3. Projects a consistent brand over time
4. Remains constantly visible within the organization
5. Stands out with his/her personal brand

Category: Setting direction

Q: A decisive leader demonstrates the ability to prioritize, focus and be alert to his/her environment.

A:  

1. Focuses instead of multi-tasking
2. Gets to the point quickly
3. Is a good decision-maker
4. Is comfortable making key decisions
5. Is decisive
6. Is generally effective at making decisions when in a hurry
7. Waits for everyone to weigh in before making a decision

Category: Building a global mindset

Q: A savvy leader knows that advances in technology have created a borderless and interconnected global environment, which has led to higher standards in customer service and innovation; alliances between governments, industries and organizations; the requirement to balance global consistency with local cultural needs; and the necessity of having a global perspective with multicultural experience in different businesses.

A: 

1. Effectively adapts to meet the changing demands of a global environment
2. Seeks to acquire the breadth of knowledge and experience required to do business globally
3. Studies cultural norms and customs before meeting international clients
4. Takes inter-cultural factors into account when making decisions

Category: Building collaboration and networking

Q: A wise leader recognizes that people are an organization’s most valuable asset and invests in relationships by building trust, proactively focusing on a positive agenda, forging alliances across the organization and creating networks with outside partners.

A: 

1. Avoids office politics as an instrument for achievement
2. Collaborates well (rather than competes) with co-workers
3. Effectively liaises with other organizations
4. Effectively liaises with others within the organization
5. Fosters productive teamwork within his/her organization
6. Networks with others to accomplish goals
7. Never gossips about other people within the workplace
8. Strives to dissuade people from speaking negatively about others

Category: Explorative Attitude

Q: An adaptable leader sees change as an opportunity, driving change by challenging the status quo and encouraging creativity. Such leaders differentiate between leadership and management and are able to translate ideas into results.

A: 

1. Driving change and operational renewal
2. Demonstrates flexibility and adaptability
3. Inspires people to create and innovate
4. Knows when it is necessary to challenge the status quo
5. Recognizes the benefits of change, not just its challenges
6. Transforms innovative concepts and ideas into business outcomes