Don't Say That at Work - Essential Communications Skills for Software Professionals

What You Say and How You Say It Matters

That is precisely the premise of this book. The author explores the communication mistakes we all make. He has seen the pitfalls that await us all in communicating with one another. Using his own experiences, as well as those of others, he offers a unique perspective on the art of persuasion, demonstrating how to steer clear of pitfalls in our everyday communications. Readers will find both new and familiar scenarios that will help them understand how to communicate with greater effectiveness in any situation.

Mistakes in professional life are costly. They can lead to career-limiting scenarios and awkward personal relationships, or even worse. And when they happen, it's often too late to take them back. In Don't Say That at Work, you'll learn how to avoid making these mistakes in the first place.

If you've said something you regret, it's time to learn from your mistakes. The book's insightful tips will help you avoid saying things that will haunt you later, without sounding arrogant or condescending. This book is a must-read for anyone who has been told their communication style is "too confrontational."

Throughout the book, you will get immediately actionable advice, particularly focused on what not to do:

• it's important to be honest, but you need to know when too much honesty can be problematic, too.
• Your social media presence can help or hurt, depending on how you use it.
• How to communicate concisely with your leadership to get things done.
• What to do when faced with problems, other than complaining about them.
• How to say no without sounding like a jerk
• And a whole lot more.

So, please don't wait. Get it now, and then remember: Don't say that at work!

What the readers think:

"should be required reading by every employee!" ★★★★★

"Mike has a real gift with storytelling and this talent shines through in each chapter." ★★★★★

"Highly [recommended] for anyone in the professional world and in particular technology." ★★★★★

"Shows the importance of knowing when to be brutally honest, and when to keep stuff to yourself." ★★★★★

FAQ

Why did you write this book?

I wrote this book in response to a tweet I posted a few years ago. As I recall, my tweet went something like this: Next time you start to say "why don't you just...", instead ask, "what if we try..." instead. You can offer the same advice, but the second version is much less confrontational and more persuasive.

Someone replied to the tweet asking whether I had more such wisdom and whether I would consider turning it into a book or course.

I looked back at some of my blog posts that were not technology-focused and decided I had enough stories to start putting a book together. Thus, this idea for this book was born.

Like it or not, people can and will judge you based on your words and how you communicate. I'm a software developer in a world where software developers are known for their lack of people skills. My hope is that this book can do something to address that.

Many of my stories are from an Information Technology and Software Developer's perspective, but it isn't just a book for technologists. Sloppy writing is unprofessional. Sloppy speaking can prevent you from getting a job or a promotion.

As you will see in the book, saying the wrong thing, or even the right thing in the wrong way, could lose you customers or even cost you your job. In one case I describe, what I said almost got me arrested.

Can I get a print version?

Yes, the print version is available through Amazon.com* and these country-specific Amazon stores: UK | DE | FR | ES | IT | JP | CA

Are you concerned about retaliation for any of the stories?

First of all, most of the stories are about things I did, which were entirely my own fault. 

That said, I have taken care not to reveal the identities of any individuals I describe in the book. It is possible that those who shared the experience with me could guess the people involved, but I'm not worried about that. They were there. 

I have also tried to be careful when naming names of my employer when things happened. In most cases, I believe I have treated them fairly. 

What if I hate it?

I don't want anyone to be unsatisfied with the book. If you don't like it, simply reply to the confirmation email within 30 days of your purchase and I'll refund your money.

Is it complete?

As of right now, it is complete. One thing I like about this sort of format is that mistakes are easy to correct. If you find a mistake or have other feedback, please feel free to let me know.

* Amazon links are paid affiliate links.