The Secret Language of Work - by Erin McGoff Hardcover

Book Synopsis

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

We've all been there: 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.

Review Quotes

"The Secret Language of Work teaches the hidden dynamics that earn respect, calm conflict, and open doors at every stage of your professional life. If you work--and you talk--you need this book."
-- Jefferson Fisher, bestselling author of The Next Conversation

"In The Secret Language of Work, Erin McGoff offers practical wisdom to guide young professionals to speak with confidence and land their dream job. Read this book today to demystify what works in the workplace."
-- Arthur C. Brooks, Harvard professor and #1 New York Times bestselling author

"There is a secret language of work, and Erin knows the code. Grab this book, devour it, and watch everything get easier at your job."
-- Vanessa Van Edwards, bestselling author and founder of Science of People

"Readers will wish they could take Erin to every interview and meeting they have--and with the practical wisdom they'll gain from this book, they can. A must read for every young adult trying to demystify the brand new world of work."
-- Meg Jay, PhD, author of The Defining Decade and The Twentysomething Treatment

"Knowing the hidden rules and expectations behind interviewing, negotiating, and presenting yourself well can catapult you into new opportunities and adventures. But you need to hone and develop these skills; Erin McGoff details specific, actionable advice we all can benefit from."
-- Matt Abrahams, author of Think Faster, Talk Smarter and host of the podcast Think Fast, Talk Smart

About the Author

Erin McGoff is an award-winning filmmaker and content creator--known as the "internet's big sister" through her AdviceWithErin branding. McGoff has built a significant online presence with millions of followers, delivering candid career and life advice for Gen Z and Millennials. She received a Pulitzer Fellowship in 2017 and was named a Forbes 30 Under 30 recipient in 2025. Her impact has been recognized by publications like the New York Times, Washington Post, Wall Street Journal, Business Insider, and others, and she is currently a contributor to CNBC. McGoff lives in Washington, D.C., with an occasional trip up to her cabin in the Catskills she custom-built, with her husband, Michael, and dog, Olive.