Even before the emergence of charismatic-leadership theories or the popularized notion of emotional intelligence, there was an overemphasis on the importance of personality in executive performance.
Leaders with magnetic personalities have a tremendous advantage over more humble or shy executives. Hiring for senior positions generally involves little more than a few conversations with a candidate, and promotions are often overly influenced by characteristics such as charm, likability, and social polish. In all of these situations, style often overwhelms substance.
Yet, as Jim Kilts of Gillette explains, the best executives often have understated personalities, and if they were to be judged by style standards ...
