The document discusses five skills that are necessary to advance to the C-suite level of an organization: 1) the ability to think strategically and provide direction, 2) surrounding oneself with talented teams and developing talent, 3) leading innovation and managing change, 4) the ability to work laterally across an organization, and 5) demonstrating executive presence through confidence and handling unpredictable situations. The skills were identified by consulting with senior executives about the factors they consider when making promotional decisions to senior leadership positions.