Power Talk: Using Language to Build Authority and Influence

by Sarah Myers McGinty

Complete with strategies for individuals who want to strengthen their personal communication skills, "Power Talk" is a must-read for anyone who wants to learn to be their own best spokesperson.

Genres: Business, Communication, Nonfiction, Self Help, Leadership, Linguistics

224 pages, Paperback

First published February 1, 2001

Reviews

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was dated, and perhaps that's my fault for buying such an old edition. Since it was written in 2001, it speaks of email like it is a passing trend, and cellphones living in cars. 19 years later, email is the backbone of my daily work life. If I leave home without my cellphone, I feel naked. There were, however, a few good bits of information that I will apply to my work life. I am an expert at language from the edge, but I need to develop my skills in using language from the center. Language from the center will never be my strong suit, but I can certainly use it during the right times and in the right places as I grow within my job.

[JP · Rating 3 out of 5]

Concise and insightful. The first half focuses on two styles: Language from the Center and Language from the Edge. Speakers tend toward one or the other but need to learn to apply both as appropriate for maximum effectiveness. Her technique for getting there is: Looking In, Looking Out, Trying In, and Trying Out. The last half of the book is about linguistics, conventions, and how communication is changing. I found it both academically and practically interesting.

[Meera Madhavan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book gives a new direction to all those who are looking to climb up the ladder in the corporate world. Author helps them to understand the real power of talk and how to do that.

[Adam Staples · Rating 1 out of 5]

Surprisingly verbose and circuitous for a book about the power of language. Had to plow through mostly irrelevant examples to get to anything actually relevant or informative.

[Matthew Thomas · Rating 2 out of 5]

Though this book feels a bit dated, I do not regret reading it. Women in the workplace will find the most use out of this book, as its advice is tailored to just such a situation. Men can get something out of this book, however. My own personal taste made this book feel a bit arduous at times, despite the lack of technical jargon. Given two stars, meaning "it was ok". It was just that.

[Robert Bernard Jr · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an interesting read. A little confusing but helpful. I will re-read to make sure I catch all the topics I did not understand.

[Nex Juice · Rating 5 out of 5]

The importance of 2 different main speech styles - one for power and one for collaboration.

[Cindy C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very useful information that is not taught in schools, but ought to be.