Superficial Markers of Corporate Power
Well-Informed & Open-Minded · HS
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Show Notes
In the corporate jungle, power still looks a lot like a silverback. In this episode, we explore why superficial status markers—height, posture, fitness, a deep voice — continue to shape who makes it to the top, even in an era of shifting global leadership. Despite progress for women, emerging economies, and tech founders, research shows that executives who “look” or “sound” powerful are still favored over those who don’t fit the mold, from uptalkers to candidates who defy traditional body stereotypes. We unpack why these biases persist, how they distort leadership pipelines, and why some experts argue that those outside the “magic genetic circle” must go out of their way to cultivate the outward signals of authority. What does it say about modern business that our instincts haven’t evolved as fast as our industries?
https://www.economist.com/business/2014/09/27/the-look-of-a-leader