The Success Code: How to Stand Out and Get Noticed

John Lees has re-written the rules on everything you thought you knew about successful self-projection, networking and effective communication. (From the Foreword by Sarah Willingham of BBC’s Dragons’ Den)

The Success Code is a pragmatic and insightful guide to building reputation and impact that anyone can learn from - even those not in the least bit inclined to self-promote. From communication tips to networking advice, the exercises are sufficiently stretching so there is no hiding behind what 'feels natural'. Written in a manner that helps the reader challenge and reframe some of their anxieties or prejudices about how they approach building their personal brand, the book builds confidence as well as skills. (Penny de Valk, Managing Director, Penna Talent Practice)

This book is packed with helpful facts, insightful quotes and practical tips. The real appeal for me is the refreshing honesty with which John approaches a topic that many struggle with. He explains that "self projection" is an important and often misunderstood concept, and we can all improve if we properly plan, prepare and practice. I have never met a successful person who has not benefitted from making helpful contacts and yet, from my experience, most people do not understand how to go about forging strong relationships with the right people. Rightly, in my opinion, the book stresses the pitfalls for anyone focused upon self promotion and, instead, demonstrates that those who show genuine interest in others will ultimately be the people that we wish to approach and keep in touch with. (Ian Nicholas, Chief HR Officer, REED Specialist Recruitment Ltd)

Do you want to succeed in your career but cringe at the thought of networking, self-promotion and elevator pitches? This book is for you. The good news is, most influence doesn't come from elevator pitches; it's not about conveying information. Influence comes from building relationships. John Lees reminds us that the impression we make matters, and suggests small positive changes that will help other people remember the best of who we are. (Jonathan Winter, Founder of The Career Innovation Company and author of The Conversation Gap)

The Success Code is the book for people who want to promote themselves but are aghast at the idea of coming across like an over-confident salesman in a shiny suit. It's a career dilemma that affects us all: we know we need to put ourselves forward at work, but many of us find the idea of being pushy and networking mortifying. John Lees offers a workable, practical solution. It's self-promotion without the self-regard. John Lees is one of my favourite interviewees. He is an inexhaustible well of pithy, practical and sometimes surprising careers advice. (Rhymer Rigby, freelance journalist and author. His work appears regularly in The Financial Times and The Telegraph)

If you believe digital media is for show offs, not people like you. If you know you should network but don't. If you are told you need to have a personal brand but find the idea distasteful. If you would rather climb the stairs than get in the lift to do an elevator pitch, then buy this book. John Lees is not exhorting you to be different from who you are, he is alongside you encouraging you to succeed by being the best authentic version of you. It's a refreshingly different message. (Dr Carole Pemberton, Coaching to Solutions, Executive coach and author)

This book identifies a key issue at work today. Relationships and interpersonal skills are critical to success but not everyone naturally feels comfortable with how they are 'supposed' to behave. John's book helps you deal with this in a really simple, practical and genuine way. Lots of useful insights and tips. A great resource in aiding your development or someone in your team who is struggling to fill their potential. (Gordon McFarland - HR Director - Global Professional Services)

Succinct, well structured, and very much of the real world, The Success Code is founded on good research yet is eminently accessible. This book is for those people who want to progress but don't want to sacrifice their sense of self, who want to amplify who they really are rather than pretending to be something they're not. This isn't a book that berates you and badgers you, it's a book that takes you by the hand and guides you to understanding, and then via understanding, into action. (Kathleen Smith, Business Services Director, the Serocor Group)

If you dread the thought of 'networking' or 'selling yourself' but want to progress in your existing job and/or future career then this is the book for you. It is full of practical advice and tips and will help you find your voice and achieve success in an authentic way. (Zoe Shackle, HR Director AMC Networks International)