Behavioral scientist Alison Fragale offers powerful new insights and a practical playbook for women to advance in any workplace, full of tips, tricks, and strategies to help secure that elusive corner office.
Over decades of research, speaking engagements, and mentorship, psychologist and professor Alison Fragale encountered recurring questions from high powered and early career women alike: How do women thread the needle of kindness and competence in the workplace? How can women earn credit for their accomplishments, negotiate better, and navigate complex office politics without losing the goodwill of their peers?
Fragale investigated and determined that many women’s workplace issues boil down to what psychologists call status: the perception of them by others. No amount of power—no degree, title, or paycheck—will raise a woman’s workplace stature unless it also affects how others see her. Acknowledging this roadblock, Fragale pulls back the curtain on how we can change how others see us by developing our standing as a “likeable badass.” By cultivating perceptions of warmth and assertiveness, women can achieve the kind of reputation that leads to a seat at the table and a fulfilling career path.
Likeable Badass is equal parts behavioral science and life hacks, weaving together rigorous research with actionable advice and impactful stories from a diverse array of women. This is a warm, heartening book written for women, their allies, and anyone who struggles to rise, and wants evidence-based, practical strategies for success, served with a side of inspiration and humor.
Liz Ryan –
The right book at the right time.
This is the book I wish I had earlier in my career. I’ve had much success in my career by being overtly likeable, and quietly badass. With my head down, I have always relied on my work to speak for itself, until it didn’t. Transitioning to a new role, new industry and surrounded by alpha men, it occurred to me I needed to do something different. What I learned was I need to step up by ‘assertiveness’. Alison Fragale’s research based advice is a must read for women navigating their careers, no matter what stage.
K. Lee –
Must read
I donât know where this book has been hiding. Must read for anyone interested in moving up in the workplace.
Ellie B –
Most actionable book for women
I have read dozens of books on business, women at work, and psychology. This book is the most actionable, helpful, and truly life changing of all of them. Alison’s writing style is approachable, relatable, and easy to read. This book is a true “life hack” for how to be more successful- it puts words to so many things we experience at work. It does all this without being stressful, unrealistic, or otherwise out of touch.Some of my favorite topics covered in the book were:- How to work with what you have and who you are as a person to be more successful (spoiler: you don’t need to change everything about yourself!)- Imposter Syndrome and how to navigate it- How to think about leveraging your network- How to find commonality with anyone and how to leverage it to get what is best for you- The interplay between power and status- Tips and tricks that truly take less than 5 minutes to implement in your daily life that are not gimmickyAfter reading this book, I do find that I have changed the way I approach work. Going back to my original point, I cannot say that about many other books I read.5 stars and thank you Alison for this!
John Dathan –
Fabulous read for women AND men
I heard about this book and was curious to read it. I was so impressed I bought 6 more copies to send to the 3 young female professionals in my family and to 3 women that I mentor with their careers. The advice is solid, digestible, and told in a manner that makes you want to do the little things. The surprise was that the advice is equally valid for men as well. As an advocate for women in the work place as well as DEI, Iâm thrilled it is written by a woman for women. But gents, put your ego away – read and learn!!
Heather Morgan –
A Must Read for Any Woman Advancing Her Career
From someone who has read more than her share of business and development books, I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this one! For women in business, the playing field is not even and the rules are not fair. We already know this. But in order to reach whatever level of success we desire, we must learn to optimally play the game by whatever rules govern it. Women are most likely to excel and advance when they are seen as both warm (likeable) and assertive (competent). Too much of one and not enough of the other will hurt us. And though the “I don’t care what people think” mentality may be alluring, it’s not realistic. How people perceive us does, in fact, matter a great deal.This book is filled with science-based insights and very specific, practical advice for how to manage people’s perceptions to ensure that we are seen as a LIKEABLE BADASS. This is the book I wish I’d written and I’m absolutely thrilled that someone did.
casija –
A womanâs perspective on career success
Itâs refreshing to see workplace culture advice written by a woman! Some of the advice given in Likeable Badass resonated with me. As a woman in the military who is currently transitioning to civilian life, I felt this book was useful in describing the corporate workplace and what I might see out there. While I could not agree with everything stated in the book, I have a better understanding of the value women add to the workplace and how we help our teammates. I wish I had the advice about salary negotiations before accepting a new job. I think everyone who knows a woman in the workplace could benefit from Alisonâs unique perspective by reading this and in turn contribute to improving the workplace for all.
Preethika Sainam –
Empowering book that is worth sharing!
I absolutely loved Likeable Badass: Women Get the Success They Deserve! This book is a practical, actionable guide that arms readers with a powerful toolkit for success. Whether you’re navigating career challenges, building relationships, or finding your voice, this book offers strategies that are not just theoretical but incredibly usable in real-life scenarios.What truly stands out is how relatable and empowering the content isâeach chapter feels like a conversation with a mentor who genuinely understands the obstacles women face and provides clear steps to overcome them. Itâs not just a book; itâs a resource that keeps on giving.I loved it so much that Iâve already ordered multiple copies for my colleagues & friends â itâs too good not to share! If youâre looking for a book that inspires, equips, and motivates, this one is an absolute gem. Highly recommend it!
Gina Buccellato –
Interesting and insightful
I wish I had had this book when I started my career! I found it both interesting and insightful with suggestions on how to implement the learnings and become a Likeable Badass. I enjoyed it so much that I purchased copies for both of my daughters and am now leading a book club with colleagues at work.
Tracey Waring, Speaker, facilitator, mentor. Empowering talented people to build more successful careers and live fulfilled lives –
“Likeable Badass” was a brilliant book that provided a great insight and approach to how women can achieve greater career success. Seeking to achieve the right balance between assertiveness and warmth is the key. Too often women receive advice to sacrifice one for the other, but Alison explains why you can have both and when you do, you can be that Likeable Badass!
Philip –
This book is as entertaining as it is insightful. The pages are brimming with fascinating research findings, captivating (and funny) stories, and practical strategies for getting what you want out of work and life. My only regret is that I didnât have it earlier in my career! It is the book I am currently recommending most often to my clients (business leaders) and friends, and will be giving to my sisters for Christmas (Annie and Gracie if youâre reading please scroll on). Thank you Alison for gifting us with this work of art and science!ð©·
Magda –
The print quality is very poor: several parts of the book are misprinted, with the text appearing a bit doubled. Reading it feels like having a vision problem
BizPresenter –
I enjoyed the book although it didnât present any new insight for me. It contains many useful reminders and examples of warm and assertive behavior.Mostly common sense.I think it would be good for a young woman to read in the first years of her career.
Kohlkopf –
Likeable Badass was incredibly inspiring. Alison Fragale delivers thoughtful, actionable insights on blending assertiveness with warmthâan approach that sparked numerous âahaâ moments for me. This book is essential for anyone wanting to excel in todayâs workplace. Iâm grateful for this empowering and practical guideâthank you, Alison!