Yesterday, I observed how experienced Israeli politicians had simply failed to prove to a waiting electorate that they possessed the ability to govern.

Balance that with a listing posted by the financial newspaper “Calcalist” – which translates as ‘Economist’ – detailing the top 50 commercial leaders in Israel during 2012. The survey, which was released two weeks ago, makes for fascinating reading, because each candidate was graded according to four categories; credibility, actions, openness, and ability to please shareholders.

Please note before I carry on: These subjects can also be ascribed to voters and how they perceive politicians.

It is impossible to pick out one item that identifies those at the top of the commercial ladder. Most are male, aged between 45 and 60. That said, they have been in their jobs for decades or for short periods of time. They come from a wide range of industries. Their comments and tips as to why they are successful are multiple and varied.

So, what makes you a good leader in business, at least according to this survey?

Well let’s return to those four basic elements. Each of our top business leaders scored strongly in all of the sections. In other words, instinctively, by luck or through training and combined experience, they have learnt the importance of applying multiple skills to their enterprises, without cutting corners on any one factor.

So where does that leave the up-and-coming executive? It is not just about good management, surrounding yourself with team players or knowing your market – yes, all important factors. What these four elements add up to is the phrase ‘detail’. As one successful entrepreneur, Ed Mlavsky, explained to me last year, “the devil is in the detail”. In other words, find the devil before it finds you. Then your organisation has a good chance to prosper.