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Likeable Badass: How Women Get the Success They Deserve
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 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 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.
Over decades of research, speaking engagements, and mentorship, psychologist and professor Alison Fragale encountered recurring questions from high powered and early career women 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 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.
Audible Audio
Published September 3, 2024
929 people are currently reading
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About the author
Alison Fragale
6 books74 followersALISON FRAGALE is the Mary Farley Ames Lee Distinguished Scholar of Organizational Behavior at the Kenan-Flagler Business School. Her scholarship has been published in the most prestigious academic journals in her field, and featured in prominent media outlets such as The Wall Street Journal, The Washington Post, Financial Times, Boston Globe, and Inc. She is the author of the forthcoming book, Likeable Badass, to be published by Penguin Random House on September 3, 2024. A sought-after keynote speaker and trusted advisor, she lives in Chicago with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 299 reviews
August 19, 2024
Reading this book felt like I was sitting on the couch talking with a brilliant friend. This book combines science with stories and every chapter has actionable advice. After reading this book I have a much clearer understanding of what I need to do in order to achieve likeable badass status.
November 4, 2024
This is one of the best books on female leadership I have ever read. I listened on audiobook and kind of want to get a hard copy now because I think it’s one I want to annotate and come back to again and again.
November 8, 2025
Pretty nice play book about how to be successful by being received as assertive and warm at the same time.
The author is a researcher studying this exact topic and delivers some psychological background information while also bringing in anecdotes from her life or people she knows to underline her points. From time to time, Alison Fragale marks the difficulties that women might face (as opposed to men) and how to deal with them. The chapters always end with exercises for the reader.
I definitely learnt something and made some notes. Not sure if I'm going to use the strategies deliberately in foreseeable future, but I might sometime.
The author is a researcher studying this exact topic and delivers some psychological background information while also bringing in anecdotes from her life or people she knows to underline her points. From time to time, Alison Fragale marks the difficulties that women might face (as opposed to men) and how to deal with them. The chapters always end with exercises for the reader.
I definitely learnt something and made some notes. Not sure if I'm going to use the strategies deliberately in foreseeable future, but I might sometime.
August 5, 2025
I’ll admit it: I started this book with low expectations. I’ve tried plenty of books aimed at “women in the workforce” and almost always walk away with a bad taste in my mouth. Good advice about how to be an effective employee—or leader—should transcend gender. I don’t want to read something that makes it feel like going to work is a constant fight, or like I’m doomed to be a casualty just because I’m a woman. (Or even worse: the books that swing the other way and offer such practical advice as 'don't apply lipstick at work or you might distract your male co-workers.')
BUT Likeable Badass surprised me. It’s full of genuinely practical advice that applies across the board. It is written for women because women are the audience the author feels most passionate about supporting. However, her advice will benefit everyone. Every chapter contained some nugget of wisdom that I want to incorporate in some way, especially her points about self-disparaging commentary and mentorship.
I fully intend to buy two copies—one for me and one to start circulating around the office. (I have learned the hard way that I don't get my books back otherwise.) Definitely one I'll be coming back to. (I listened on audio which was fine but I think a physical copy would help me absorb the content better and allow for notes/highlighting.)
BUT Likeable Badass surprised me. It’s full of genuinely practical advice that applies across the board. It is written for women because women are the audience the author feels most passionate about supporting. However, her advice will benefit everyone. Every chapter contained some nugget of wisdom that I want to incorporate in some way, especially her points about self-disparaging commentary and mentorship.
I fully intend to buy two copies—one for me and one to start circulating around the office. (I have learned the hard way that I don't get my books back otherwise.) Definitely one I'll be coming back to. (I listened on audio which was fine but I think a physical copy would help me absorb the content better and allow for notes/highlighting.)
March 11, 2025
Absolutely loved this! Listened as an audio book on Spotify and it gave some awesome very actionable strategies for female leaders - highly recommend!
September 22, 2025
Would recommend to all my baddie friends.
November 14, 2024
“Powerful women are disadvantaged by gender status beliefs compared to their powerful male peers. And women's status woes aren't limited to losing the mic. When we’re not fending off microaggressions, we're hepeated, mansplained, undervalued, and overlooked.”
This book is a compelling and insightful read. The author, an organizational psychologist who specializes in human behavior and workplace interactions, brings a wealth of experience to the table. Her background makes her uniquely qualified to offer women practical advice on how to navigate and thrive in the workplace while maintaining authenticity.
The book is structured into three main sections. In the first, the author outlines the primary challenges that women face in the workplace, including sexism, gender discrimination, and the impact these issues have on their careers. She supports her arguments with relevant facts and figures, painting a clear picture of the systemic barriers that women often encounter.
The second section offers actionable advice on how to become a more effective and assertive professional, helping women assert their power, communicate confidently, and advance in their careers. The tips here are practical and straightforward, aimed at empowering women to take charge and achieve their goals.
The final section encourages women to share the skills they've learned with others, fostering a culture of support and mentorship in the workplace. It emphasizes the importance of lifting others as you climb, which not only benefits individuals but can also lead to a more inclusive and collaborative work environment.
Reading this book is both informative and motivating. It’s sobering, however, to realize that many of the statistics and challenges discussed remain so relevant, even in 2024. The book flows well, and the advice is generally applicable, making it a useful resource for a broad audience.
That said, for readers who have been exposed to self-help books on similar topics, some of the content may feel familiar or even repetitive. As a result, parts of the book might come across as less impactful to seasoned readers. Additionally, the frequent repetition of the term ‘likeable badass’ may begin to feel a bit overused, which can be a minor distraction.
Despite these minor shortcomings, I believe this book would be especially valuable for young women entering the workforce. It offers practical guidance, inspiration, and a clear path to professional success. It also serves as an excellent refresher for more experienced professionals looking to reinvigorate their careers or adopt a new approach.
Even if you're a man, there’s no harm in reading this book to gain a better understanding of the challenges women face in the workplace. After all, we’re all in this together, and fostering mutual understanding is key to creating more inclusive and supportive work environments.
Received a review copy from TimesReads.
This book is a compelling and insightful read. The author, an organizational psychologist who specializes in human behavior and workplace interactions, brings a wealth of experience to the table. Her background makes her uniquely qualified to offer women practical advice on how to navigate and thrive in the workplace while maintaining authenticity.
The book is structured into three main sections. In the first, the author outlines the primary challenges that women face in the workplace, including sexism, gender discrimination, and the impact these issues have on their careers. She supports her arguments with relevant facts and figures, painting a clear picture of the systemic barriers that women often encounter.
The second section offers actionable advice on how to become a more effective and assertive professional, helping women assert their power, communicate confidently, and advance in their careers. The tips here are practical and straightforward, aimed at empowering women to take charge and achieve their goals.
The final section encourages women to share the skills they've learned with others, fostering a culture of support and mentorship in the workplace. It emphasizes the importance of lifting others as you climb, which not only benefits individuals but can also lead to a more inclusive and collaborative work environment.
Reading this book is both informative and motivating. It’s sobering, however, to realize that many of the statistics and challenges discussed remain so relevant, even in 2024. The book flows well, and the advice is generally applicable, making it a useful resource for a broad audience.
That said, for readers who have been exposed to self-help books on similar topics, some of the content may feel familiar or even repetitive. As a result, parts of the book might come across as less impactful to seasoned readers. Additionally, the frequent repetition of the term ‘likeable badass’ may begin to feel a bit overused, which can be a minor distraction.
Despite these minor shortcomings, I believe this book would be especially valuable for young women entering the workforce. It offers practical guidance, inspiration, and a clear path to professional success. It also serves as an excellent refresher for more experienced professionals looking to reinvigorate their careers or adopt a new approach.
Even if you're a man, there’s no harm in reading this book to gain a better understanding of the challenges women face in the workplace. After all, we’re all in this together, and fostering mutual understanding is key to creating more inclusive and supportive work environments.
Received a review copy from TimesReads.
December 24, 2024
I’ve listened to this book on audible and found the book insightful.
The author utilizes both her skills in being a career-woman and a having psychology education to identify and create an actionable solution.
It’s a useful book that career women will find bits of useable information as they navigate careers especially those that are male-dominated.
However, I don’t see me reading a printed copy. The audio felt relatable.
Recommend as an audio.
The author utilizes both her skills in being a career-woman and a having psychology education to identify and create an actionable solution.
It’s a useful book that career women will find bits of useable information as they navigate careers especially those that are male-dominated.
However, I don’t see me reading a printed copy. The audio felt relatable.
Recommend as an audio.
March 7, 2025
I would give 10 🌟 if I could. A practical, thoughtful, science-backed leadership book for women taught through storytelling and actionable steps - imagine! I listened to the audiobook read by the author (what a Likeable Badass) which was thoroughly enjoyable. The many nuggets of wisdom and detailed guidance for situations I encounter constantly have me ordering a physical copy of this book because I will need it to reference moving forward. A gem!
September 27, 2024
“A queen doesn’t wait for anyone to save her. ‘The queen saves herself.’”
This quote sums up how it feels being in my early 20s at the start of my career. I’m trying to navigate the “real world,” and it’s up to me to find the resources and people necessary to support my journey. This book was a perfect read for someone just entering the workforce, especially women. We face the issue of coming across as “bitchy” when we’re too assertive and “not competent” when we’re too nice. Alison Fragale presents great tips on how to be the best blend of both of those characteristic while continuing to build your status.
I found Alison on LinkedIn at the beginning of the year, and I’m glad I did! This book had a similar format to Atomic Habits, which was another favorite “self-help” of mine from this year. Alison provides the science, presents examples and anecdotes of implementing the science, and refutes/addresses any potential rebuttals. I’ve found this is layout is most beneficial for myself when I’m actually trying to learn strategies to use.
This quote sums up how it feels being in my early 20s at the start of my career. I’m trying to navigate the “real world,” and it’s up to me to find the resources and people necessary to support my journey. This book was a perfect read for someone just entering the workforce, especially women. We face the issue of coming across as “bitchy” when we’re too assertive and “not competent” when we’re too nice. Alison Fragale presents great tips on how to be the best blend of both of those characteristic while continuing to build your status.
I found Alison on LinkedIn at the beginning of the year, and I’m glad I did! This book had a similar format to Atomic Habits, which was another favorite “self-help” of mine from this year. Alison provides the science, presents examples and anecdotes of implementing the science, and refutes/addresses any potential rebuttals. I’ve found this is layout is most beneficial for myself when I’m actually trying to learn strategies to use.
September 12, 2024
I received an advanced copy of this book in an electronic format - great for reading, but not great for notetaking. I plan to buy a paper copy so I can highlight all the amazing advice in this book! Yes, I’m old school, but there are so many practical tips, I can see myself referring back over and over. I found the section on negotiation to be particularly exceptional. Up until now, I’ve been a pretty solid badass, but not always a likable one. Thanks to Alison Fragale for showing how warmth and assertiveness are not mutually exclusive!
March 17, 2025
Wow, I’m very glad I read this so early in my career. Practical but powerful advice in a really easy format. Can’t wait to come back to it over time and implement as much as I can. Must read!
April 25, 2025
I liked the book. I think the author gave very good advice and insights.
July 12, 2025
Recommend every woman read this - such a great career book
July 19, 2025
Incredible!
But definitely sent me into a spiral of how others perceive me…
But definitely sent me into a spiral of how others perceive me…
October 28, 2024
HOW IS THIS BOOK ALSO ABOUT A SARAH WHO IS A MARKETING MANAGER THIS IS FUNNY
GOD THIS IS SO CORPORATE 4TH WAVE FEMINISIM CODED ITS EXHAUSTING
Notes:
- You're expected to be confident and assertive to get ahead, but when you do, you're often labelled as bossy, or worse, aggressive.
- Now you might think the solution is simple. Just focus on gaining more power. After all, that's what all those Women in Leadership programmes are about. But here's the kicker.
Power isn't the whole story. It's about status and respect, too. Think about it. When was the last time you heard about a Respect Women in the Workplace Day? We have an Equal Pay Day, but no Equal Respect Day. And while this focus on power isn't wrong, it's missing a crucial piece of the puzzle.
- power doesn't exist in a vacuum. It's given to you by others. Whether it's a promotion, a raise, or even just having your ideas heard in a meeting, someone else is making that decision. And they're basing it on how much they respect and admire you. In other words, your status.
- It's about being respected. It's about changing perceptions and breaking down stereotypes. It's about being seen as both competent and likeable. A tricky balance, but not an impossible one.
- Think of your workplace as a stage where every interaction is a performance. Your colleagues and superiors are your audience, forming opinions about you with each move you make. Are you seen as confident? Approachable? A team player?
- She started prefacing her ideas with confident phrases like, I've given this a lot of thought and here's what I propose. Suddenly, people were listening. The key to Yuki's success wasn't speaking more loudly or more often. It was about changing how she presented her ideas. She learned to be assertive without being aggressive, confident without being domineering.
- if you don't tell a compelling story about yourself, no one else will. It's not bragging, it's strategic self-promotion.
- Not only should you seek out mentorship for yourself, but you can also become a mentor to others.
Quotes:
- “Your power is your control over resources—like money, authority, and a seat at the table where decisions are made.”
- “Your status, on the other hand, is the way others see you—specifically, how much you’re respected, admired, and valued.”
GOD THIS IS SO CORPORATE 4TH WAVE FEMINISIM CODED ITS EXHAUSTING
Notes:
- You're expected to be confident and assertive to get ahead, but when you do, you're often labelled as bossy, or worse, aggressive.
- Now you might think the solution is simple. Just focus on gaining more power. After all, that's what all those Women in Leadership programmes are about. But here's the kicker.
Power isn't the whole story. It's about status and respect, too. Think about it. When was the last time you heard about a Respect Women in the Workplace Day? We have an Equal Pay Day, but no Equal Respect Day. And while this focus on power isn't wrong, it's missing a crucial piece of the puzzle.
- power doesn't exist in a vacuum. It's given to you by others. Whether it's a promotion, a raise, or even just having your ideas heard in a meeting, someone else is making that decision. And they're basing it on how much they respect and admire you. In other words, your status.
- It's about being respected. It's about changing perceptions and breaking down stereotypes. It's about being seen as both competent and likeable. A tricky balance, but not an impossible one.
- Think of your workplace as a stage where every interaction is a performance. Your colleagues and superiors are your audience, forming opinions about you with each move you make. Are you seen as confident? Approachable? A team player?
- She started prefacing her ideas with confident phrases like, I've given this a lot of thought and here's what I propose. Suddenly, people were listening. The key to Yuki's success wasn't speaking more loudly or more often. It was about changing how she presented her ideas. She learned to be assertive without being aggressive, confident without being domineering.
- if you don't tell a compelling story about yourself, no one else will. It's not bragging, it's strategic self-promotion.
- Not only should you seek out mentorship for yourself, but you can also become a mentor to others.
Quotes:
- “Your power is your control over resources—like money, authority, and a seat at the table where decisions are made.”
- “Your status, on the other hand, is the way others see you—specifically, how much you’re respected, admired, and valued.”
August 30, 2025
Pretty saturated genre. I probably would think more of this book if I hadn’t read several variations of it already. The comment about putting off showering as long as possible was unexpected. Inoffensive but not groundbreaking.
September 16, 2024
Sometimes, books just fall into your lap when you need them most. This is one of those books.
This was an unexpected surprise. I am suspicious of 'self-help' books. I've read several and haven't found anything terribly useful in them. While this may be branded as a 'self-help' book, it's so much more than that! The advice Fragale offers here is based on her research as an organizational psychologist, but it's offered in such a way that it feels like your best friend is sitting across from you, telling you about her own experience. Each chapter counters a specific mindset that women struggle with in their professional (and personal) life, explains the science behind the mindset or practice, offers advice for counteracting, and concludes by suggesting realistic practices the reader can do to work on the new skills. Research, anecdotes, and examples supplement the entire book. Not one thing is baseless in this book.
I really appreciate how this book didn't have a dooms-dayer approach to the sexism that still pervades the work force. There's a lot to be upset or pessimistic about, but Fragale had the perfect approach: tell the facts but describe what to do about it. As I was reading, I consistently thought about my own situation and compared my circumstances to the ones described in this book. As a young woman at the beginning of my professional career in a field that is male-dominated (professional history), this genuinely gave me so much good advice and encouragement, and left me feeling really, really positive.
I recommend this to anyone - ANYONE - who struggles with imposter syndrome!
Thank you to Penguin Random House for the copy of this book! All opinions are my own.
This was an unexpected surprise. I am suspicious of 'self-help' books. I've read several and haven't found anything terribly useful in them. While this may be branded as a 'self-help' book, it's so much more than that! The advice Fragale offers here is based on her research as an organizational psychologist, but it's offered in such a way that it feels like your best friend is sitting across from you, telling you about her own experience. Each chapter counters a specific mindset that women struggle with in their professional (and personal) life, explains the science behind the mindset or practice, offers advice for counteracting, and concludes by suggesting realistic practices the reader can do to work on the new skills. Research, anecdotes, and examples supplement the entire book. Not one thing is baseless in this book.
I really appreciate how this book didn't have a dooms-dayer approach to the sexism that still pervades the work force. There's a lot to be upset or pessimistic about, but Fragale had the perfect approach: tell the facts but describe what to do about it. As I was reading, I consistently thought about my own situation and compared my circumstances to the ones described in this book. As a young woman at the beginning of my professional career in a field that is male-dominated (professional history), this genuinely gave me so much good advice and encouragement, and left me feeling really, really positive.
I recommend this to anyone - ANYONE - who struggles with imposter syndrome!
Thank you to Penguin Random House for the copy of this book! All opinions are my own.
July 1, 2025
I don’t usually reach for self-help books, but after a friend recommended this one, I gave it a shot, and I’m glad I did. As someone who takes a lot of pride in her professional career, this book offered a unique perspective on how to leverage both the strengths I already have and the new ones I picked up from the book. Fragale strikes a great balance between smart and approachable. Her advice feels actionable, not overwhelming, and her writing is engaging and relatable. Highly recommend for any fellow corporate gals looking to level up their personal brand and own their space with confidence!
April 24, 2025
You may have been on that Likeable Badass path but didn’t realize what it truly felt like to lean into that powerful force!
I think this is a need to know book for any woman in the workplace. Skills you will learn are also easy to implement in your everyday life and any point in your life. In here you’ll be able to use skills to build your support team, lean in on your expertise, and show tf up as the person you’ve wanted to be but never thought you could. Seriously, give this a try.
I think this is a need to know book for any woman in the workplace. Skills you will learn are also easy to implement in your everyday life and any point in your life. In here you’ll be able to use skills to build your support team, lean in on your expertise, and show tf up as the person you’ve wanted to be but never thought you could. Seriously, give this a try.
June 26, 2025
I have no idea how I came across this book but I'm so glad I did! Every chapter has incredibly useful information and suggestions for people in the workplace, like women, who are often required to strike a balance between assertiveness and warmth. Because if we don't, we're a b*tch. I highly recommend this book even if you're not looking to change how you operate. It's full of academic research insights and important considerations that you might be able to share with others who need them.
July 4, 2025
I absolutely loved Likeable Badass!! Alison Fragale gave me words for something I've always felt but couldn't quite name: the sweet spot between confident and approachable, strong yet warm. I appreciate that this isn’t another "ignore the rules" kind of book. Fragale openly acknowledges that the "game" (life, work, etc.) is unfair. Instead, she offers practical, realistic strategies for women to play by today’s rules so we can build enough status (and power) to rewrite them later.
The research she references is recent (2015+), fresh, and genuinely inclusive. Fragale highlights not only the traditional gender gaps but also thoughtfully includes studies about the experiences of transgender women - something I haven't seen often in women’s leadership literature.
Likeable Badass quickly earned a spot among my all-time favorite leadership books because it's relatable, evidence-based, and easy to put into practice. Now I have a clearer picture, and a mantra for the leader I want to become: a Likeable Badass!
The research she references is recent (2015+), fresh, and genuinely inclusive. Fragale highlights not only the traditional gender gaps but also thoughtfully includes studies about the experiences of transgender women - something I haven't seen often in women’s leadership literature.
Likeable Badass quickly earned a spot among my all-time favorite leadership books because it's relatable, evidence-based, and easy to put into practice. Now I have a clearer picture, and a mantra for the leader I want to become: a Likeable Badass!
November 14, 2024
This book was powerful!! It is about being both Assertive (badass) and Warm (likeable) and what science and research says how we can use this to be successful and get what we want! I love her casual writing style and actionable items! It felt like I was talking to a friend who really knew me!! It showed me opportunities to grow in my career through tangible tactics!
December 22, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. The principles of combining warmth and assertiveness resonated with me. I also liked the balance between research and personal stories. It has actionable suggestions at the end of each section so the reader can practice the learning concepts. The author narrates the audiobook and did a fabulous job. I highly recommend it for anyone who works, but especially professional women.
August 25, 2025
Someone I admire at work recommended I read this book, and I’m glad I did. I will definitely take nuggets like “small deposits” and “mere exposure” and “retirement speech” with me. This is a clear guide with tons of tips on how to be more intentional with career (and life) advancement and/ or impact
October 2, 2024
Soo very good! I'm sometimes a little wary/skeptical of self-help books, but this one felt like everything I needed to hear and think about at this time in my life/job searching. Would recommend to anyone.
November 16, 2024
Definitely the book I’ve read all year, probably the best leadership book I’ve come across. The examples are concise and relatable, the advice is extremely applicable and easy to follow, the whole book could be a chat with a group of amazing friends around a coffee table.
December 2, 2024
I enjoyed this book. I thought it was both fun and informative. I feel like I would want to be friends with the author. I enjoyed the authors examples and experiences she shares both from her own life and many other awesome women. I needed a pick me up and this helped!
February 22, 2025
I started this MONTHS ago and finally finished. Some interesting concepts to consider, but didn’t ultimately hold my interest. Some of the self-promotion tips felt super cringey. I’m not meant for the corporate world, perhaps.
February 28, 2025
I'm not usually a non-fiction reader, but this book flew by in the best way! Lots of useful tidbits to try out and really see what works for me. I've highly recommended this book to a few women in person and recommend it to y'all online, too!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 299 reviews