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Ten qualities executives seek in up-and-comers:

Passion: Driven to get the job done and do it right; passion for one's function, the marketplace, the company's product, work in general; high energy level

Intelligence: There's no substitute for intelligence, with emphasis on insight, analysis of complex problems, deductive reasoning, out of the box thinking

Fearless: Willing to take risks, embrace new challenges, make mistakes, and say what's on one's mind without fear of consequences; opposite of CYA mentality

Leadership: Innate ability to motivate people to willingly do one's bidding, especially when there's no direct benefit for them to do so

Can-do attitude: Simply put, everything is "no problem;" somehow finds a way to make it happen with minimal supervision; respect for "the customer"

Work ethic: Committed to working long and hard for the fulfillment of a job well done; respect for business and work; clarity in knowing right from wrong

Integrity: Understanding the importance of meeting commitments, on schedule and on budget; plus following up and keeping one's word

Flexibility: Easy to work with, willing to take on new responsibilities without clear personal benefit and without whining about it; willing to take one for the team

Humility: Willing to do what it takes for the team and credit others; intuitive understanding of the value of Karma in the business world

Honesty: Honest, straightforward, strong moral fiber; tells the truth regardless of consequences; goes hand-in-hand with fearless and strong work ethic

If this sounds like a laundry list of unachievable qualities that describe the perfect worker, then you might be wasting your time seeking a management position. If, on the other hand, you've got a good handle on half these qualities and are willing to work on the rest, then you've got a good shot.

If you've been recognized for possessing most of these qualities and are actively working on your weaknesses, you'll be noticed as an up-and-comer and pegged for management early in your career.

If you also excel at one or more disciplines, such as product development, marketing, finance, or operations, then you'll likely achieve an executive position if that's your goal.

If you add to that a little luck, opportunism, and business acuity, then the sky's the limit.

Last bit of advice: This only answers the "what," not the "how." You may need to seek one-on-one coaching or mentoring to help you develop these qualities. Other than that, be open to opportunity, be willing to take risks, embrace change, and above all, do what you feel passionate about.

If you're lucky, you'll achieve things you never dreamed possible.