We have all come across people who convey gravitas instantly. They impress in how they hold themselves, how they listen, what they say – and don't say. There is calmness rather than histrionics. In such a person's presence, we are assured and engaged.

In a study sponsored by companies that included American Express, Deutsche Bank and Ernst & Young, gravitas was found to be the dominant "pillar" of executive presence, with 67 per cent of the 268 senior executives surveyed placing it at the forefront.