When we talk to bosses about employees that they think are imminently promotable, they often talk about employees who "get it." And when we talk to employees, they always want bosses who "get it," particularly, if they are a woman or a member of a diverse population.

For both of these groups "Get It" refers to those who have:

• Strategic insight
• An understanding of how to influence people within the organization
• The ability to inspire and motivate
• The skill to communicate with dramatically different audiences
• Personal presence
• Respect for different styles