Graduates need high energy levels, a desire to be in charge and the ability to cut through complexity if they want to be an Alan Sugar and make it to the boardroom.

These are three of the key attributes that distinguish CEOs from simple executives, according to a study by Personnel Decision International which analysed data from more than 9,000 business leaders.

When it comes to negative characteristics, the research showed graduates should avoid being passive-aggressive and do less micro-managing if they want to be more than just apprentices.

Onrec reports an ability to understand complex, ambiguous information by analysing and detecting systematic themes was a key trait graduates would need to succeed as a CEO.

Simon Callow of PDI said: "The nature of the role requires CEOs to be able to digest a great deal of information quickly and determine which elements of it indicate trends or themes that are important to the business. Identifying what is vital from a mass of random extraneous information is an essential skill in running a business and predicting potential challenges."

He also revealed why high energy levels, the desire to be in charge and the ability to be persuasive are important. He continued: “CEOs need to thrive on hectic and demanding schedules and not depend on downtime to recharge. You have to want to be at the top to be a successful CEO. This is not a role you want to fall into accidentally. Top leaders are comfortable calling the shots, persuading others about the decisions they think are right and taking the responsibility that goes along with the power position."

Callow added: "Of course, possessing these traits alone does not guarantee one will make it to the CEO position. It also doesn’t mean that if you lack these traits, you cannot fit the role. For those with their eye on the CEO job, experiences that are high risk with potential high return for the company and experiences that are highly visible throughout the organisation tend to help an individual be prepared to take on the responsibilities of leading the company."