Ray Moorcroft FInstAM
Editor of E-manager
Reviewed PRESENT FOR SUCCESS for The British Journal of Administrative Management

Ex tour guide, ex stand-up comedian and now author of a series of books, Alison Lester advocates that good communication is the basis of successful business, or at least a business career. She also is a fan of self-analysis and I like this starting point, although I'm not sure that the questions reflect the reality. For example, I always get nervous, and I don't think that it's for any of the 'reasons' listed!

That said, the content of the book is good: for example, the author tackles the issue of widespread knowledge (WWW 'stuff') by the simple tip of accessing this after compiling what you already know, and giving yourself the confidence from realising that it's only the 'extras' that are on the web.

By the way, Alison refers to a long-standing 'friend' of the IAM, Shirley Taylor, and (refreshingly) pays tribute to her original approaches.

To summarise, a useful addition to the field, and one which is comprehensive in coverage - so yes, do add it to your collection!

Jim Wagstaffe FInstAM
Reviewed COMMUNICATION: YOUR KEY TO SUCCESS for The British Journal of Administrative Management

This is a worthy addition to the Success Skills Series. 'Communications' are the bane of most people's lives, with stories of cold 'sweats' when having to communicate with others in the team during (for example) team briefings - and as for 'presentations' ии! Yet this book covers these two situations and a wide range of others with the same matter-of-fact approach.

Of course, the formula is tried and tested - 'Star Tips', 'Aha Moments', 'Danger Zones' and so on - but is no less effective here.

For me, the key to this Series is the continual emphasis on self-development: from assessment to training exercises, the message is clear - it's up to you to take advantage of what's on offer.

A good book to have in your pocket, on your desk or in your bag - and to use!

Ray Moorcroft FInstAM
Editor of E-manager
Reviewed E-MAIL ETIQUETTE for The British Journal of Administrative Management

This book follows the same successful formula as the other books in the Success Skills Series, namely clear, short passages with plenty of summaries (a useful device) and signposts to "aha" moments.

There is one such passage, which I have copied and pasted to my machine - "Star Tips for maximising the potential of E-mail". The very title re-focused my frame of attention: instead of regarding e-mails as an enemy of time, I now regard the methodology as a potential tool, which appeals to my developmental sense.

Shirley also gave me permission to feel comfortable with "Hi" as a formal greeting - something that doesn't come easy to a generation of letter-writers! Similarly, the warning on 'Electronic Emotions' is timely advice. This is a very useful addition to the Series.

Ron Kaufman
Bestselling author, UP Your Service!

"The Success Skills Series books are easy to read, fun to follow and practical to apply. They offer a wealth of proven tips to help you upgrade your skills in so many areas of business, while at the same time uplifting the spirit of your work and your life."

Alan Hodges
Managing Director, AETN International, Asia Pacific

"Present for Success is really well done: accessible, practical, actionable. And the quality of the writing simply reinforces all the messages in the book."

Maggie Eng
HR Manager, Sumitomo Corporation Asia Pte Ltd

"The Success Skills Series from ST Training Solutions is a 'must read' if you intend to be an effective and dynamic communicator. These books are easy to understand yet provide immensely practical and useful advice. The first two books on e-mail and presentation skills are not just 'how to' manuals - they are definitely required reading! Both books are amusingly interesting and yet never fail to delve seriously into the subject matter. They will sharpen your writing ability as well as transform you into a confident and powerful presenter - two skills that one cannot do without in today's changing business environment."

Tim Arrowsmith
Creative Director, Blue Marlin Asia Co Ltd, Bangkok

"Shirley, your new book on E-mail Etiquette is just brilliant. I wish there was a version in Thai. Congratulations. Wishing you every success with it."