"We have all been waiting for a book like this. With a rare kind of clear analysis and a wide variety of real speech cases, Jonathan Clifton convincingly demonstrates what speakers are doing with language to achieve a certain effect. The reader will also find a substantial reference set of tools and strategies, well-explained and ready for use in the reader's own practices. Essential, I think, for business and communication students, journalists, teachers and everyone interested in communicating effectively."
Katja Pelsmaekers, co-editor of 'Displaying Competence in Organizations' and former lecturer of Business Communication at the University of Antwerp, Belgium
"This book is a must have! It deals with language, how it is used, and how to use it better. Jonathan Clifton adopts a novel format, beginning with the in-depth but to-the-point analysis of 24 contemporary instances of spoken language. I particularly like the way these examples cover such a range of contexts and purposes. These lead on to "100 strategies" which cleverly apply theory in order to help readers improve their communication skills. The author draws on his expertise as a conversational analyst, and his up-beat prose also guarantees a very enjoyable read. A precious resource for teachers, but, first and foremost, a book for everyone."
Fiona Rossette-Crake, Professor of English Linguistics, Universit© Paris Nanterre, France
"Drawing from years of research and university teaching, Jonathan Clifton masterfully guides the reader through the secret codes of conversation - without the academic jargon. Through easy-to-follow examples taken from contemporary scenarios, this book encourages you to notice the subtlest of cues in language, and it equips you with concrete communication strategies, one hundred of them to be specific. From celebrity interviews to police negotiations, from adverts to everyday chatter - if you ever wondered how people really communicate and how they achieve their goals, you won't be able to put this book down!"
Erika Darics, language consultant and Professor of Applied Linguistics, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
"Jonathan Clifton is an outstanding scholar, as his many academic publications attest. Yet, what makes him truly stand out from the 'academic crowd' is his ability to translate complex analyses into plain language. Combine this with an excellent nose for captivating cases, and you have a recipe for success, as this book shows! Because seriously, who wouldn't want to know how to crack the language codes as used by the likes of Boris Johnson, Donald Trump and Meghan and Harry?!"
Dorien Van De Mieroop, Professor of Linguistics, Leuven University, Belgium
"This wise book resonates with academics and professionals by showing how communication shapes reality. "TALKING FOR SUCCESS: The Secret Codes of Conversation and How to Master Them" is a one-of-a-kind guide to communication strategy that is both specific and actionable. These very valuable insights are also rooted in strong research but shared in an engaging and conversational tone. To boot, the candid, and sometimes humorous delivery, is a fun read. I highly recommend it!"
Jacqueline Mayfield, PhD, Professor Emeritus of Management, Texas A & M International University. Co-Editor, the International Journal of Business Communication
