Appearance will be just as crucial as attitude in the business leader of the future, according to scientists at the University of Kent, who have come up with a photofit of what the successful boss of the future will look like.

For male managers a pronounced brow and forehead are the features most trusted by staff, while for women thin eyebrows, wider eyes and fuller lips make inspirational female business leaders, the study, commissioned by Vauxhall, shows.

Character traits seen as crucial to business success include encouraging flexibility and creativity, providing a clear direction, dealing with employee expectations without aggression and a having firm but fair attitude.

Chris Solomon, director of the University of Kent Forensic Imaging Group, said: "The scientific findings clearly show how Britons think a good business leader should look and behave. They want a candidate with the confidence of experience - somebody who will rise to the challenge and make brave decisions in the current economic climate."

The male boss of the future

The female boss of the future