Do your communication skills let you down? Do you struggle to explain and influence, persuade and inspire? Are you failing to fulfil your potential because of your inability to wield words in the ways you'd like? This book has the solution. Written by a University of Cambridge Communication Course lead, journalist and former BBC broadcaster, it covers everything from the essentials of effective communication to the most advanced skills. Whether you want to write a razor sharp briefing, shine in an important presentation, hone your online presence, or just get yourself noticed and picked out for promotion, all you need to know is here. From writing and public speaking, to the beautiful and stirring art of storytelling, and even using smartphone photography to help convey your message, this invaluable book will empower you to become a truly compelling communicator.

‘If you want to cut through with your communication and get on in life, this is the book for you. Whether it’s writing, public speaking, storytelling, how to make a mark online, or getting yourself featured in the media, it’s the perfect guide for professional success. Highly recommended.’

Jonathan Rosenberg - former Senior Vice President, Google

‘This wonderful book is just what you have been looking for, even if you didn’t know it. Simon Hall’s talent, honed by many years of newscasting and reporting at the BBC, is that most valuable of things, a Bible of communication skills. In it he explains how so many of us with a great story to tell end up with our words falling on deaf ears or our ideas left underfoot on the cutting room floor. His genius lies in understanding that our deepest desire is to capture the interest and imaginations of others, yet the dark arts of how to do this successfully remain painfully just out of reach. This is the Secret Sauce, the insider’s step-by-step score for the symphony of your story. This is the good stuff…a seriously important message given by as agreeable a companion as you’d ever wish for. Buy it and be happy.’

Tim Smit - founder of The Eden Project

‘As an academic who has done a fair few presentations to different audiences, I found this book enormously valuable. It provides a smarter and more systematic approach to getting your message across effectively and really engaging the audience. I would heartily recommend it, particularly for those looking to step up their media and communications work.’

Anna Vignoles - CBE FBA, Director, The Leverhulme Trust