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The Secret Language of Work: Hyper-Helpful Scripts for Every Situation

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Brought to you by Penguin.

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


We’ve all been 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.

© Erin McGoff 2026 (P) Penguin Audio 2026

Audible Audio

First published March 10, 2026

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Erin McGoff

5 books23 followers

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5 stars
144 (54%)
4 stars
75 (28%)
3 stars
41 (15%)
2 stars
2 (<1%)
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0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
Profile Image for lids ☆彡.
63 reviews1 follower
March 13, 2026
as a big fan of Erin McGoff, reading this book felt like watching one of her videos. her writing tone is almost exactly the same: informational, relatable, and encouraging. because the variety of topics she covers and wealth of conversation scripts to accompany them, this book is accessible entry to the basics of unspoken office etiquette.

however, some sections felt copy-and-pasted from her short-form content, making each chapter feel like only a surface-level explanation of the topic; graphs were based more on storytelling than on actual statistics.

even so, i’d recommend this book for people early in their career, people who have never read a business book, and anyone who wants an index of McGoff’s advice without going on social media.
Profile Image for Lisa Dick.
46 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 3, 2026
We invest heavily in technical skills.We rarely teach the invisible rules that determine who advances.

I have followed Erin and her content for years and was so excited to get a copy of her book prior to publication! And if you're a fan of her content, you will LOVE the book. Her advice on self-advocacy, resumes, interviewing, confident communication, and more is practical and easy to apply to almost any situation. This book's specialty is breaking down the unspoken corporate rules, especially for early-career professionals or those without support systems to guide the way.

In short, so much of our success at work comes down to communication and this book walks through all common communication scenarios and potential pitfalls to prepare you to succeed or improve your current skills.

If you’re early in your career, mentoring someone who is, feeling stuck at work, or just a seasoned professional looking to sharpen your communication, this one is worth checking out!
1 review
Read
March 4, 2026
I fumbled my way through corporate America and somehow managed to build a successful career out of figuring things out as I went. That said, I seriously wish I had this book ten years ago. It would have saved me from a lot of hard conversations, second-guessing, and lessons learned the long way around.

For a long time, I over-apologized. I downplayed my work. I said yes to things that weren’t really my responsibility because I wanted to be helpful, or liked, or simply not difficult. Like many people, I thought working hard was enough and that eventually the right people would notice.

What The Secret Language of Work does so well is explain the part no one teaches you: how to communicate your value in a way that’s authentic, clear, and effective. Erin doesn’t ask you to become someone else or adopt a corporate persona. Instead, she shows you how to show up as yourself - just with the language and awareness that helps people actually understand the impact of your work.

She also walks through how to keep yourself visible in the right way. Not self-promotion for the sake of ego, but the kind of thoughtful communication that keeps your contributions top of mind when opportunities and promotions come around.

Whether you’re just starting your career or already deep in it, this book gives practical insight that most of us only learn the hard way. Erin manages to put words to dynamics many people feel but struggle to articulate, and that alone makes this book worth reading.
Profile Image for Clara Thebert.
5 reviews
April 6, 2026
So for context, I absolutely love Erin’s Ig page which I have been following since I graduated. She provides lots of useful advice that I have successfully applied multiple times. The book however feels a bit like a video script. It is written in a very informal tone which makes it a little “too easy” to read, as in too simplistic. I am still happy with my purchase and think it will be useful to go to the book and refer to specific chapters when I need advice, rather than searching for a video online. I also liked that it feels more targeted to young women on the labour market, contrarily to the usual career-advice books. Rating 3.5/5.
Profile Image for kail.
66 reviews
May 13, 2026
nothing revolutionary, but still encouraging & relatable as a young woman trying to solidify a career path. this is written in a way that allowed me to actively reflect and think about how i am going to apply the information being shared. i’m glad i listened instead of reading the physical copy!

i will say i was not for the use of ai recommendation in chapter 5… you will get a much more genuine reply and genuine insight from choosing to talk to someone else instead of generative ai!

anyways, grateful for erin’s insight and encouragement for self advocacy (:
Profile Image for koz .
39 reviews4 followers
Read
April 6, 2026
shoutout au grads
Profile Image for Jacob Cramer.
Author 1 book4 followers
March 25, 2026
I’m so glad I listened to this book.

What I learned was just common sense: Keep yourself visible. Stay positive. Yes and! Replace why with what or how. Give feedback that stings. Be discreet. Take breath. Be intentional.

Why I still needed to read the book: Erin gives colorful examples and logic to her teachings that make the case to take these to heart so compelling and help them stick. Her videos share these teachings too, but with too much bait. This feels like a true, simple guide for a young professional.
Profile Image for Aditi Dharmadhikari.
7 reviews
March 31, 2026
I love the writer of the book and I’ve been following her on YouTube ever since she started creating content. But I do feel as though her content applies only to the limited role of US work culture. I live in France and the work culture here is completely different. The rules about negotiation in the book or just reaching for your dream job or promotions do not apply.
I’m still happy to have read the book, though.
If nothing else it’s a useful lesson in communication that most people are never taught and it’s helpful even in relationships if not just the workplace. To end I would like to say “it’s not personal it’s just professional.”
Profile Image for Kayleigh Van Wyk.
6 reviews1 follower
March 16, 2026
I’ve been following Erin on social for a few years and was excited to hear she was writing a book. It did not disappoint! Plenty of useful tips and practical advice to be found within these pages, especially for someone like me on the millennial/Gen Z cusp and early on in my career.
Profile Image for Praise from the Page.
154 reviews6 followers
April 24, 2026
I loved this book!! As a big fan of Advice with Erin, this was all the amazing tips I needed to hear and more to strive forward in the workplace. I did a mix of reading the physical copy and the audiobook and both were phenomenal!
Profile Image for Tabitha.
1 review
April 1, 2026
My favorite quote from this book (and one of my new life mottos) is “Use soft words with strong boundaries.” 💯
Profile Image for Bethany Busse.
128 reviews2 followers
April 4, 2026
Obsessed. This is the book I needed after high school and college. Erin is so relatable and gives such tangible advice.
Profile Image for Pairody.
39 reviews
April 15, 2026
Corporate work etiquette 101, I wish I had read this when starting my career.
Profile Image for stiggyreads.
81 reviews1 follower
April 9, 2026
I really like how Erin is focused on the outcomes of conversations instead of making an emotional point. This is such a great guide for any type of communication and it felt good to see some of this advice and know I already do a lot of it 🤭
15 reviews
May 13, 2026
Loved this book. The best thing about it was the negotiation section about out in negotiate pay, and other things this book would be great for someone anyone who’s staying a job or even has been in a job for a while that needs some refresh sometimes when we’re in a job, we forget certain things in this book helps. Remind you of things that you may have forgotten.
Profile Image for Sara Weidner.
15 reviews
April 13, 2026
As a past Career Coach, I have followed Erin McGroff’s “AdviceWithErin” social media channels for years. She is the first career professional I’d recommend to my students and clients because she gives practical, invaluable career advice in personal, bite-sized videos. She is engaging and knowledgeable and this book reads exactly as if she’s sitting across from you at Starbucks telling you how to get the most out of your career and live the best life possible. I appreciate she always gives exact scripts to use for specific scenarios and pulls back the curtain of the “secret language of work.”
Profile Image for Laura Mills.
86 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
March 2, 2026
If you are looking for a book to help you in the professional work space, this is the book you need to be reading!

Erin McGoff (aka AdviceWithErin) offers a ton straightforward advice on various topics and subjects that help the audience gain useful knowledge that can be implemented in their professional lives from being a better written communicator & verbal communicator, navigating the job hunt, what to do in that special 90 day window when starting a new job, etc. If you think of something to cover, she covers it in the book guaranteed.

My favorite section was the chapter all about networking. I am a person that definitely thrives better networking online, and luckily a lot of networking is done online anymore. However, I will add that she also gives tips on how to network in person, which are definitely tools that I will try to put to use as much as I can. I also appreciate in this chapter, she covers everything that encompasses networking and how to navigate it to make it less awkward, difficult, and stressful. A favorite quote I have is from the introduction of this chapter that says specifically, “What holds so many people back from networking is fear — fear of being too forward, fear of feeling awkward, or fear of causing offense to others while embarrassing themselves”.

Lastly, if you know of or follow Erin’s content on social media, you know how she presents her videos as a more skit format to not only make it enjoyable to watch, but also easier to understand and digest what information is given. The voice that Erin uses in her videos I fully believe is present in this book as it’s like I could hear her voice in my head as I read .

I can’t recommend this book enough for people, if you want to help yourself in professional work settings and apply what you learn (and even use some of theses tools in your everyday life too), you need to read this book. Run, do not walk to purchase this book when it releases March 10th!
Profile Image for Daniel.
279 reviews1 follower
April 26, 2026
Erin McGoff: The Secret Language Of Work

I rate this 6/10.

This book is more useful for people earlier in their careers, especially those learning how to handle interviews, salary conversations, difficult managers, feedback, workplace confidence, and direct communication.

What I found useful as a leader was the reminder that many workplace problems start before the real conversation happens.

Someone assumes intent. They build their own version of the story. They discuss it with the wrong people. By the time the real conversation happens, they are already frustrated or defensive.

That is how small issues become bigger problems.

The strongest reminder was around gossip and workplace drama: do not take the bait. Keep it neutral, stay respectful, and get back to the work.

I see this as a leadership issue. Teams lose clarity when side conversations become easier than direct conversations.

The section on false narratives was also useful. We all carry old experiences into current situations. The risk is that we respond to memory, ego, fear, or insecurity instead of what is actually in front of us.

I would recommend this book to early-career professionals, and those preparing for their first real leadership role. It gives practical language for moments many people handle badly because nobody ever taught them how to handle them properly.

#Leadership #Communication #CareerGrowth #WorkplaceCulture #ProfessionalDevelopment
99 reviews
March 13, 2026
This is a book that anyone in the workforce could benefit from. Erin does a phenomenal job on her Instagram account of providing scripts of scenarios one may encounter in the workplace and how best to handle them with grace and still maintain boundaries. However, this book takes it to the next level. So much of "succeeding" at work is knowing how to communicate effectively, and in this book Erin does an amazing job of walking through common scenarios and how to handle them authentically in your own voice.

If you are a fan of Erin's content, you will love the book (and I highly recommend the audio version - she narrates it herself). If you are just starting out in your career, looking to rejoin the workforce, feel like you just don't have a good mentor who can give you the advice you're looking for about work and your career, looking to sharpen your interview/negotiation skills, or are simply feeling stuck in your career, this book is for you.
Profile Image for Lauren Kramer-Theuerkauf.
Author 2 books45 followers
March 15, 2026
I absolutely love this book! I wish this would have been available to me when I entered into the workforce. Erin’s advice is practical and easy to follow. The scripts that she provides take all the guess work out of how to handle interviews, issues with co-workers, toxic bosses, and more.

Having majored in Mass Communications, I noticed that Erin hits all of the major points on how to be an active listener as well as an effective speaker. The knowledge and techniques that Erin imparts are truly invaluable. I think that this book should be a requirement for all college students.

As a fellow entrepreneur and business owner, I can attest that Erin truly understands the importance of establishing confidence and boundaries early on in one’s career. This book reminded me that I boundaries are truly essential to crafting the life that you deserve.

I highly recommend this book to all readers looking to take their career/business to the next level.
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Author
March 7, 2026
Erin McGoff’s book, “The Secret Language of Work“, gives advice that feels relevant for just about anyone. At the beginning, she talks about how middle schoolers have to learn the “secret language” of the cafeteria, which shows that even younger students could take something away from this book.

High school and college students could benefit too, especially if they’ve ever wondered how to say they’re overwhelmed or stressed in a more professional way. If you’re entry-level like me, this book is also really helpful for things like job interviews and learning how to communicate with difficult coworkers or bosses.

There’s even a section about networking for introverts. Overall, the advice in this book can apply not just at work, but in everyday life too, so it’s something almost anyone could benefit from reading.
Profile Image for Anastasia.
76 reviews39 followers
March 13, 2026
I’ve been following Erin on Instagram for a couple years now and her advice helped me a lot as a young professional quitting my first job and interviewing for my second one. I think the audiobook is great for the first read-through because it’s read by Erin and makes you feel like you’re having a coffee chat with her. I want to get a physical version as well, so that I can reference it later.

Professional communication is truly key to being respected and liked in the workplace, and more importantly, to achieve your goals - get that job, salary raise, or even just PTO approval. You’ll learn how to set boundaries with your boss and colleagues, how to answer different types of interview questions, how to negotiate a salary or a raise, how to quit gracefully, and so much more. This book is short, succinct, and full of useful examples that bring its concepts to life. Highly recommend!
Profile Image for Luis Carrillo.
1 review
March 17, 2026
I appreciated how simple yet thoughtful this book is. It covers things that honestly should be taught in traditional schools and universities, but usually are not. These are practical lessons that matter in real life, both professionally and personally.

What stood out to me is that the book makes important topics feel clear, approachable, and actually useful. It does not overcomplicate things or try too hard. It gives practical guidance on things people will face in the real world, no matter what stage of life or career they are in.

I think this book is valuable whether you are just starting, trying to grow in your career, or even if you already have a lot of work and life experience. There is something in it for everyone. Erin did a great job making the advice feel real, relevant, and easy to apply.
Profile Image for Heidi Engleman.
1 review
March 16, 2026
I have been a follower of Erin for a few years now on Instagram and LinkedIn. I found her content to be extremely helpful while I went through a five month job search process and her advice always gave me the hope and confidence to push forward. I’m happy to say I ended up with a great job and many of the elements that got me my current role I used from Erin’s advice. I’m grateful she chose me to be one of her inside circle peers to read her book. I found it super useful today, especially being in my young professional years, all of the chapters in this book feel relevant. I especially appreciate the chapters on how to negotiate and to advocate for yourself in the workplace. I highly recommend this book for any age and any industry you work in, anyone can find useful advice in her book!
Profile Image for Jane.
45 reviews1 follower
March 17, 2026
Although I'm closer to retirement than most, I've been thinking of making a big career shift for the last few years I'm working. This book has been an amazing resource for helping me better communicate with a demographic that is much younger than me. I feel better prepared for phone screens and interviews. I've also updated my resume based on what I've learned from information Erin has shared on her social channels.

Even better, I've also shared this book with my daughter, who is a freshman in college and has a difficult time speaking up for herself. She's already used some of the tactics in class and feels it's been a confidence booster.

This is a great read for anyone...young or "old".

1 review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
March 2, 2026
Erin Mcgoff’s book, “The Secret Language of Work”, is jam-packed full of useful scripts and scenarios not only relevant to full-time workers but to solopreneurs like myself too. As someone who is also neurodivergent, Erin’s past content and now this book have all been extremely invaluable to me. Neurodivergent folks often struggle (or is it just me?) to feel understood in conversations and to understand others. Erin’s book is clear and concise, and will help you better communicate and articulate yourself without losing your authentic voice. You’ll most definitely gain some new found communication confidence. I highly recommend giving it a read!
1 review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
March 4, 2026
Your Internet Big sister writes a book. It is like your best friend giving you career advice while she's guiding you along the way. Erin offers relatable examples and tangible work advice as you advance through the next chapter of your career. It is a must-have book! Erin also provides charts for the visual learners. Makes everyone feel seen. I've been following her work for a bit now, and having all her internet advice in one book is amazing to see. Erin is rooting for you every step of the way in this book. She poured her heart and soul into this to make sure she helps everyone where they feel stuck. I've gotten more confident at interviews because of the advice she gave me.
Profile Image for Jessica S.
233 reviews60 followers
Read
March 10, 2026
The writing is super accessible, making this great for entry- to even mid-level individuals. Much of it is straightforward for me as someone who has already worked in a professional setting for a few years (and went to graduate school). Still, there are tidbits and frameworks I still found new and helpful, and the scripts are ever-green. I can definitely see myself referencing sections of the book in the future. This is a great resource for those starting out and for anyone who doesn't have access to mentorship and existing resources.

Thank you to Erin for selecting me to be an ambassador for the book!
Profile Image for Hannah Burrows.
17 reviews1 follower
May 3, 2026
Oh wow! This book was amazing!

Erin does an amazing job laying out the life cycle of job hunting, interview preparation, setting professional boundaries and communication, and even leaving when necessary. All the while, encouraging readers to keep their own unique voice, which is greatly appreciated. We do not need to sound like robots to pursue long-term careers or achieve specific goals; all we need are the right words.

I highly recommend this book to anyone starting their career or trying to move upwards. This has given me a much-needed confidence boost, and I will be referring back to it. One can never be too prepared.
Profile Image for Chandni Bhakta.
15 reviews
May 6, 2026
I’ve been following Erin for quite some time and I have always found her content helpful! There’s a lot of work/job market content out there, so I like that she takes a strategic communications approach and that’s what sets her a part from other creators. This book definitely addresses communications in a professional setting and honestly, I think that’s a great way to stay on brand! Her examples and scenarios were a great way to the topic back to the message. The only reason why I gave it a 4 star rating was because I thought some chapters were slightly too long and lost focus.

It’s a great read and I highly recommend!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews