What are the specific traits{{U}} (31) {{/U}}will assist executives to climb the ladder of success? Opinions vary widely. Given approximately equal qualifications and circumstances, some claim the success factor is largely a matter of luck—being in the right place{{U}} (32) {{/U}}the fight time. Others speak of an almost crazy devotion to work, combined{{U}} (33) {{/U}}a degree of ruthlessness. One "expert" maintains that it's undoubtedly a matter of how much education your mother had.

To make it big, executives must possess four basic skills:

First, drive Business success takes an unusual amount of energy. A successful executive—almost{{U}} (34) {{/U}}definition—is a striver. {{U}}(35) {{/U}}will get tense when he is not striving.

Second, people sense Some say being able to judge people is more important{{U}} (36) {{/U}}a high IQ, The skill can be instinctual, {{U}}(37) {{/U}}in most cases it is painstakingly learned.

Third, communications ability. Different executives make themselves understood in different ways. Some transmit ideas best face to face; others are masters of the telephone call; still others are persuasive writers. One way{{U}} (38) {{/U}}another, they all communicate clearly.

Fourth, calm{{U}} (39) {{/U}}pressure No businessman will get very far{{U}} (40) {{/U}}he chokes up.