What They See: How to Stand Out and Shine in Your New Job by Jennifer Swanson
Influence Publishing
ISBN: 978-1771410991
Published May 2015
Trade paperback, 220 pages

My Review
Reviewed by Laura Fabiani

When I applied for my first job about 26 years ago, it was pretty obvious what an employer expected from me. But times have changed and what was taboo years ago is okay today so that the lines are blurred when it comes to work expectations. Jennifer Swanson, an expert in the field of communications and human relations has written a nifty book or perhaps I should call it a manual on how to stand out and shine in your new job.


She covers everything from attitude, dress code, verbal and non-verbal communication, work ethic and managing stress and conflicts. I've worked in many fields, mainly psychological and medical, and I found this book very informative and ideal for any young man or woman starting to work. There are things that weren't an issue back in my day, such as tatoos, cell phones and social media, that are a big part of today's lifestyle. If a kid hasn't been taught that there should be no cell phones at the dinner table, then why wouldn't that same kid a few years later be checking his phone during a business meeting?

Swanson covers what my generation might consider common sense, but that a lot of young men and women of this generation might not know. Yes, it's good to know what is appropriate work attire, but Swanson, in her lively and friendly writing style, shows new employees what it truly means to be professional, which includes being honest and owning up to one's mistakes. It gives motivation for a young one to succeed and develop assertiveness. These are valuable work ethics that all can apply, not just young workers.

This book is a true gem and should be included in a work ethics class in high school, college or university. It would be an invaluable tool for any government employment agency and organizations that train and help youth prepare for the work field. If you're a parent with kids who are actively job hunting or newly hired, this is the perfect book to get them on the right road to a long and healthy work life.

Note: This book is rated G and suitable for a general readership.
To read more reviews, please visit Jennifer Swanson's page on iRead Book Tours.
Jennifer Swanson has been teaching Communication and Human Relation skills since 1993 to college students entering the medical field. She is also the creator/host of the Communication Diva Podcast, which has an international audience and helps people in deepening workplace and personal relationships through more effective communication. In addition to teaching young adults, Swanson is an ordained minister in the United Church of Canada, has worked in the Youth and Family Ministry for 3 years, has a Master's Degree in Public and Pastoral Leadership, and is a certified conflict coach and Master NLP Practitioner. She is also a mother and step-mother to two young adults and two teens. Swanson draws upon years of expertise as she shares her passion for inspiring others to reach their full potential with readers and audiences worldwide.

Connect with Jennifer: Website  ~  Facebook  ~    Twitter

Listen to the PODCAST:
How Writing a Book Can Benefit Your Business –with Jennifer Swanson on The Successful Author Podcast