If you're new to the workforce, it can be difficult to know how and when to express yourself in conversation.

Being in a professional situation for the first time can be an intimidating experience, and yet you'll be keen to make your points and share your perspectives and ideas. Speak Up, Stand Out shows you how to do exactly this. It considers the anatomy of a voice, the different modes of influence, thinking on the spot and how to speak up in meetings. There is also an extended consideration of the different components of making a presentation (managing yourself, managing the material, and managing the audience).

If you've just started your career, gaining the confidence to express yourself with clarity and gravitas will be one of your keys to success; this book shows you how.

You don't have to have it all figured out. Work in Progress is a series for anyone building confidence at work, whether you're stepping into a new role, switching paths or figuring things out as you go. These books help you build essential skills like speaking up, navigating setbacks and working with mentors, all without the pressure. Straightforward and practical, they make sense of the things no one teaches you, like what "professional" actually looks like. No jargon. Just real advice to help you grow with confidence, at your own pace. Because learning how to work is part of the job.

About the Author

Alan Barker is Managing Director of Kairos Training Limited, a specialist consultancy dedicated to developing creativity and communication skills.

A prolific writer, he is the author of Improve your Communication Skills, How to be Better at Managing People, 30 Minutes to Brainstorm Great Ideas, 30 Minutes Before a Meeting and How to Manage Meetings (all published by Kogan Page).