In this issue we look at how having confidence in yourself can boost your career; how to improve your CV to make the most of your job prospects and we link you to an online dictionary that will ensure you never need to worry about your pronunciation again.

• Editor's Desk
• Bite 1
• Bite 2
• Bite 3
• Working Web
• Last Word

Last Word

Earlier, we were talking about our new sales course – but even if you don’t want a career in selling, it's good to know some of the techniques. Whether you're trying to convince a new person to join your company, describing a new product to a client, or trying to convince your partner that they want a new, sporty car as much as you do - knowing how to sell is a great ability to have, and it's one that's sure to be of value to you.

But the four main techniques to bear in mind in such circumstances are:

• Don’t talk ‘at’ a person, talk ‘to’ them - have a conversation. Talk enthusiastically about an idea or product that you really believe in, then discuss how it will help both of you.
• Ask questions – involving the other person is key to keeping them engaged. Listen as much as you talk. If you don’t understand their point of view, you can’t influence them to your way of thinking.
• Focus on "helping" instead of "selling". Try to keep your own goals and agenda out of the conversation.
• Watch body language. If the other person starts to look bored or move their hands and feet a lot, then you need to finish, or move on to the next point in your persuasive pitch.
• So, give it a go and see how it works for you. Until next time...