The Secret Language of Work

Hyper-Helpful Scripts for Every Situation

By: Erin McGoff

Narrated by: Erin McGoff

NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER!

From the creator of AdviceWithErin, the definitive book on how to use the right words at work—so you can build the career you deserve

We’ve all been there: you’re sweating, sitting in front of your laptop, and the interviewer on the screen says, “Tell me about yourself.” You freeze. Is that even a question? What are they expecting from you? What do you say?

If that paragraph made your heart beat a little faster, TikTok star, career educator, and “the internet’s big sister” Erin McGoff is here to help. In The Secret Language of Work, McGoff shares her best, customizable scripts for how to communicate in the professional world—word-for-word, exactly what to say during interviews, while negotiating salaries, when you need to set boundaries with co-workers, as you advocate for yourself, and in any sticky situation at the office. With McGoff’s advice, you will master the unwritten rules of work speak that are key to career advancement.

Learning how to say the right words, in the right order, in the right way, at the right time, is an art that too few people are taught. Stellar communication is probably the most valuable skill you can possess—and once you know the secret language of work, you will be able to confidently tackle anything your sure-to-be outstanding career presents to you.

Critic reviews

“The Secret Language of Work teaches the hidden dynamics that earn respect, calm conflict, and open doors at every stage of your professional life. If you work—and you talk—you need this book.”
— Jefferson Fisher, bestselling author of The Next Conversation

“In The Secret Language of Work, Erin McGoff offers practical wisdom to guide young professionals to speak with confidence and land their dream job. Read this book today to demystify what works in the workplace.”
— Arthur C. Brooks, Harvard professor and #1 New York Times bestselling author

“There is a secret language of work, and Erin knows the code. Grab this book, devour it, and watch everything get easier at your job.”
— Vanessa Van Edwards, bestselling author and founder of Science of People

“Readers will wish they could take Erin to every interview and meeting they have—and with the practical wisdom they'll gain from this book, they can. A must read for every young adult trying to demystify the brand new world of work.”
— Meg Jay, PhD, author of The Defining Decade and The Twentysomething Treatment

“Knowing the hidden rules and expectations behind interviewing, negotiating, and presenting yourself well can catapult you into new opportunities and adventures. But you need to hone and develop these skills; Erin McGoff details specific, actionable advice we all can benefit from.”
— Matt Abrahams, author of Think Faster, Talk Smarter and host of the podcast Think Fast, Talk Smart

Exactly What I Needed—Twice in My Career

I watched and studied Erin McGoff’s YouTube videos before my first job interview in 17 years, a little over a year ago. I’m so glad I did—so much about interviewing has changed since the last time I went through the process. I watched nearly all of her videos while preparing, and they were incredibly helpful.

In fact, I credit her advice with helping me land the job on my very first interview.

Now, I’m preparing for a promotion interview, and her book came out at exactly the right time. I finished it in three days because it was so practical and engaging. Just like her videos, the advice is clear, modern, and immediately useful.

If you’re navigating interviews, workplace communication, or career growth, this book is an excellent resource. Erin has a way of explaining the “unwritten rules” of work in a way that makes you feel confident and prepared.

Highly recommend.

Powerful messages presented in a simple way!

This book is beyond helpful and so valuable! While the information is simple & easy to understand and apply, it pacts a powerful message! Often times books take too long to get to the point. This one gets straight to it!

Really good advice, helpful for every situation in life.

The advice and topics were a little bit simple, but it had a lot of advice and little things that are often overlooked or forgotten.

Awesome book!

This audio book was very informative! I learned a lot! This is just what people need who come from middle to lower class and wasn’t taught the Secret Language of work. Loved it!