LOOKING FOR: YA/NA FANTASY, SFF, HORROR, ADULT FICTION John Baker (he/him) joined the Bell Lomax Moreton agency in 2019, cultivating a list shaped around his passion for science fiction, fantasy, and horror, though has lately also branched out into action/adventure fiction. John focuses on authors writing in the Adult, New Adult, and YA spaces. John leads the wider agency's film & TV desk, is the Secretary of the Association of Author’s Agents, and the co-chair of the AAA’s Bridge Committee. He also serves on the Kingston University MA Publishing Advisory Board. Under the umbrella of speculative fiction, John is looking for fantasy, science fiction, horror, romantasy, or literary speculative fiction. He has built a reputation as a champion of underrepresented voices and stories, be it from creators hailing from the global majority and their diasporas or neurodiverse authors, and naturally gravitates towards this kind of storytelling. In short, if he’s never read a story like yours before, he wants to see it. Adult fantasy: John loves beefy epic fantasy, especially non-Anglo Christian-inspired. Give him an immersive world, a fresh magical or mythic system, and an exciting cast of characters and he’ll be happy. He is a broad church in the genre so loves a political fantasy, swords and sorcery, courtly intrigue, monster hunting and dastardly villains. John is keen to find an urban fantasy that feels fresh and fun and he’s a sucker for a heroic quest narrative. He’s also very open to fantasy that isn’t easily categorised, but it is playing in that world. John is keenly hunting for more historical fantasy, especially inspired by modern history. He’s had fun with mythological retellings in the past, but as ever, let’s make sure it’s shining the spotlight on new stories. He would also love fantasy that centres on types of relationships less celebrated in fantasy, such as established and secure married couples, or siblings. NA/YA fantasy: In this genre, most importantly, John wants to have a good time, whether it’s swoon-worthy kisses in lush ball gowns, or gruesome gore and monsters, so send him pacy, plot-filled adventures. He’d love more books that teenage boys would love: Skullduggery Pleasant forever! Romantasy: The thriving new romantasy genre comes with its own set of challenges, so John wants to know what makes your romantasy different; what will set it out from the (very crowded!) market. Give it completely barmy stakes, cool and unique new settings, or a love story that will make your jaw drop. To be clear, he’s happily sorted for a human person meets a fae creature in the spooky woods. Also, cosmic romance is the genre of the future. Give him romantasy in space. Easy. Horror: John and horror are old friends. He loves horror inspired by myth and folklore, subversive weird horror that leaves your eyebrows in your hairline, historical horror that pulls from ghastly true stories, and anything that you’ll be reading with the light on. He also loves a gothic element and is particularly looking for horror with a strong romantic throughline, fun YA horror, and female & NB horror authors. Science fiction: SF is coming back! And John has been shouting about that. He loves to see an adventurous found-family romp through space or an epic, crunchy space opera. Speculative near-future is fun too, in the vein of Black Mirror’s more uplifting episodes, (e.g. San Junipero). He loves YA science fiction as well; the more creative the better. Literary: John is open to finding more rich magical realism or something character-led yet supernatural and would love a high-concept mystery, in the vein of Stuart Turton. He also loves spec fic that uses the speculative lightly as a way of confronting a deeper truth in society today. Weird stuff: John wants books that will blow people’s minds and defy categorisation. This is hard to describe, but think Gideon The Ninth, The Library At Mount Char, This Is How You Lose The Time War. John loves a pitch that leaves the editors baffled but intrigued. Action/Adventure, Historical Adventure, Espionage: John is branching out into non-speculative adventures, such as John Le Carré, Lee Child, Ian Flemming, and Mick Herron. More as his taste develops, but the hunt is on! Not looking for: military sci-fi or hard SF, or anything with biblical “character wakes up in purgatory/heaven/hell” narratives. The right comedic fantasy has yet to hit his inbox, but please don’t comp Douglas Adams or Sir Terry. John would like you to submit a covering letter, 1-2 page synopsis and the first three chapters (or 5,000 words whichever is longest) of your manuscript in a single word document. (In addition to the paid sessions, John is kindly offering one free session for low income/under-represented writers. Please email agent121@iaminprint.co.uk to apply, outlining your case for this option which is offered at the discretion of I Am In Print). By booking you understand you need to conduct an internet connection test with I Am In Print prior to the event. You also agree to email your material in one document to reach I Am In Print by the stated submission deadline and note that I Am In Print take no responsibility for the advice received during your agent meeting. The submission deadline is: Monday 12th May 2025
Duration 3 Days 18 CPD hours This course is intended for This course is intended for Information workers, IT Professionals and Developers. Students should have an existing working knowledge of either Microsoft Dynamics 365 or Microsoft Dynamics CRM. Overview Understand the features and tools that exist in Microsoft Dynamics 365 for Customizers Be aware of integrating complimenting Microsoft products such as SharePoint, Skpe for Business and Exchange Undertake and carry out the initial setup and configuration required in a Microsoft Dynamics 365 deployment Design and configure a comprehensive Security model using the inbuilt tools in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Customize the Dynamics 365 schema by creating custom Entities, Fields and Relationships Design custom Information Forms, Quick View Forms, Quick Create Forms and System Views Create System Charts, Dashboards and Interactive Experience Dashboards Create and manage Business Rules using the Business Rule Designer Plan, design and implement best practice Workflow, Business Process Flows and Custom Actions Be able to apply best practice methodology using Unmanaged and Managed Solutions to deploy Microsoft Dynamics 365 customizations and patches This course provides students with a detailed hands-on experience of setting up, customizing, configuring and maintaining the CRM components of Microsoft Dynamics 365. Attendees of this course will gain an in-depth understanding of the Dynamics 365 security model, learn how to customize the Dynamics 365 framework, create and maintain powerful workflows and business process flows and use solutions to package and deploy customizations across multiple Dynamics 365 environments. The course applies to both Business and Enterprise Editions of Dynamics 365 as well as Online and On-premise deployments. Introduction Getting familiar with the versions of Microsoft Dynamics CRM\365 Get acquainted with the Dynamics 365 framework Review the Dynamics 365 interfaces, devices and apps Understand the tools for Dynamics 365 customizers A brief overview of Solutions Understand the differences between Dynamics 365 organisations and environments Review further reading and resources Set up the lab environment - Acme Enterprises Event Management Solution Initial Setup and Configuration An introduction to Dynamics 365 online setup An introduction to Dynamics 365 on premise setup Review the System Settings area Understand how to configure Auto Save Settings Understand how to configure Format Settings Understand how to configure Email Settings Understand how to configure Skype Integration Understand how to configure SharePoint Integration Security Design and configure Business Units Configure Security Roles Manage Users and Teams Implement Access Teams Configure Hierarchy Security Creating and Managing Entities Introduction to the Dynamics 365 schema Review the different Entity Types Create new Custom Entities Managing Entity Ownership Managing Entity Properties Custom Entity Security Review Entities and Solutions Customizing Fields Introduction to Field Customization Understand the different Field Types Review Field Formats Create a new Field Review Fields and Solutions Implement a Calculated Field Configure Field Level Security Customizing Relationships and Mappings Introduction to Relationships Review the different Relationship Types Create a Relationship Review Relationships and Solutions Understand Relationship Behavior Implement a Hierarchy Relationship Configure Field Mappings Customizing Forms, Views and Visualizations The process to create a new Form Review the different Form types Using the Form Designer Customizing the Main, Quick View and Quick Create Forms Configure Form Security Review the different View types Customizing System Views Customizing System Charts and Dashboards Workflows, Business Process Flows and Custom Actions Introduction to Processes Workflow Business Process Flows Custom Actions Solution Management An introduction to Solution Management How to add and administer components in a Solution The differences between unmanaged and managed Solutions How to export and import a Solution How to set Managed Properties for a Solution What happens when you delete a Solution How to Clone a Solution Patch How to Clone a Solution
This one-day workshop is ideal for those looking to work with existing databases as well as creating a new Access database. You will learn effective ways to enter and extract data and convert data into a well-presented format for reports. This course will help participants: Plan and create a database Sort and filter records Use field data types Work with tables Create and manage a query Create and work with forms, and use the form wizard View, create and print reports 1 Access introduced Planning a database Creating a blank database Opening an existing database Security warnings The navigation pane Previewing database components Closing an Access database 2 Tables introduced Viewing and navigating table data Navigating using keyboard shortcuts Editing table data Adding records to tables Selecting and deleting records Finding and replacing data Filtering tables Summing table data 3 Queries introduced Opening a query in datasheet view Opening a query in design view Adding fields to a query Sorting query results Modifying datasheet view Saving and closing queries 4 Forms introduced Working with form data Sorting records Filtering records Working in design and layout views Changing object attributes 5 Reports introduced Opening and viewing reports Viewing a report in design view Previewing and printing report data Creating reports with auto report Creating reports with the report wizard Changing field attributes 6 Creating a new database Creating database tables Creating table fields Selecting field data types 7 Table relationships Introducing relationships Establishing table relationships The one-to-many relationship type Establishing referential integrity 8 Creating queries Streamline query criteria using wildcards Creating summary queries Creating queries based on criteria Running date queries Formatting field properties Building queries from multiple tables Summing in queries 9 Creating forms Creating a new form Inserting form fields Working with the property sheet The command button wizard The command button wizard Programming without typing Creating forms with embedded sub forms Creating forms with the sub form wizard Creating forms with the form wizard 10 Creating reports What are report bands? Managing report controls Basing reports on multiple tables Basing reports on queries Sorting and grouping records
Birth Right Hypnobirthing is a full antenatal birth preparation course for pregnancy. Particularly useful for those who are scared of giving birth. Whether this is your first or tenth baby this information is essential. Whether you're looking for a natural birth or support for your caesarean birth this course will support you and give you the tools for the best birth for you.
Understanding cultural differences in the global sales environment is critical to your salespeople’s success. Developing their intercultural communication skills and knowledge of the sales and negotiation techniques of different cultures and nationalities, will help them to ensure relationships are as effective and rewarding as possible. Bespoke courses include: The impact of language and cultural differences on the sales environment Communication techniques in international sales Effective sales questions A global mindset Culture and its impact on sales Delivering on different cultural expectations Perceptions of time across cultures and the impact on sales cycles and timelines
Raise Resilience - a six session, self paced programme, full of top tips, tools and resources to build mental resilience.
We need to talk openly about how we are performing and we sometimes need to have an 'honest' conversation with our manager. We all know this, but it can be difficult. This short, focused workshop will give you the confidence and skills to have a conversation with your manager (or anyone else for that matter) about your performance and how you can add value. It will focus on how to get yourself heard and build better working relationships with those key to your success. The programme will help you: Overcome the barriers to effective performance conversations Receive feedback without taking it personally Improve working relationships with your manager Agree realistic expectations and targets (and get 'buy-in' for them) Improve your communication style Plan and prepare for honest conversations in the workplace 1 What is an honest conversation? Why don't we have them more often? What stops us? The cost of not having them 2 Asking for feedback 3 Preparing for challenge 4 The expectations conversation 5 Your communication styles 6 Planning and preparing for an honest conversation
Refresh and revitalise your sales teams with a bespoke sales training programme that’s designed to lift their skills and motivation. Our sales experts use learner-centred and coaching methodologies to provide top tips to make a difference to success rates and relationships straight away. Stripped-back sales skills with sensational results, a bespoke course may include: Applying the steps of any sales cycle to your market Communication and relationship building Qualifying and questioning skills Prospecting and pre-call planning Making a pitch Emotional intelligence in sales Objection handling Closing the deal
Recognising the value of, and practising, clear and open communication at all levels is the first step to improving performance, whether at an individual, team, management, leadership or organisational level. We all know this, but why is it so difficult? This unique programme will make it much, much easier for you by giving you a robust framework to use - and the opportunity to practise your skills in a safe, supportive environment. It will help you have conversation that deliver tangible results. The programme will help you: Overcome the barriers to effective performance conversations Handle feedback conversations effectively Improve working relationships with your staff Set realistic expectations and targets (and get 'buy-in' for them) Improve your communication style Plan and prepare for honest conversations in the workplace 1 What is an honest conversation? Why don't we have them more often? What stops us? The cost of not having them 2 The feedback conversation Dealing with the impact of feedback conversations 3 Preparing for conflict 4 Effective working relationships 5 The expectations conversation 6 The targets conversation 7 Your communication styles 8 Planning and preparing for an honest conversation 9 Giving and receiving feedback skills
This course will help you and your employees gain the necessary vocabulary, grammar, and conversational abilities from our qualified instructors. Additionally, our interactive lessons and hands-on activities will improve your BSL proficiency and comprehension. This Course At A Glance Live Zoom classes with an expert BSL tutor, Adam Linsdell. Gain an extensive understanding of deaf awareness. Acquire knowledge of several commonly used vocabulary words. CPD Accredited certificates are recognized by employers and professional organisations. Enhance your communication skills through practical exercises. BSL Training Course Overview This BSL training course, CPD certified workplace oriented classes, is an immersive 18-hour duration (3 hours per week) course designed to enhance your communication skills with deaf colleagues and customers in a specific workplace setting. This comprehensive program will equip you with the necessary tools to establish effective interactions and bridge the communication gap. Throughout the course, you will learn essential vocabulary, grammar, and conversational skills in British Sign Language (BSL). Additionally, you will gain insights into deaf culture and develop a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with hearing impairments in the workplace. By the end of this course, you will be able to confidently communicate using BSL and contribute to a more inclusive and accessible work environment. BSL Training for Workplace, Autumn 2025 Please book your place in advance Weekly via Zoom Online Live Class. You can attend the class online from home/workplace. Total Duration: 18 Hours Class Starts: August 08, 2025-October 10, 2025 Day & Time: 10:00 am – 12:00 pm (Thursday, 2 hours per week) Venue: Zoom Online Teacher: Adam Linsdell Who should take this course? BSL for the Workplace is perfect for individuals, employees, large or small businesses. Those who are seeking to improve their communication with deaf colleagues and customers in their professional environment can opt for this course. Whether you work in health and healthcare, retail and shopping, hospitality, cultural settings, or public services, this course will provide you with the skills needed to connect and engage with the deaf community. Learning Outcomes: Upon completing the BSL for the Workplace course, participants will achieve the following learning outcomes: Learn fingerspelling alphabets and words with accuracy Develop simple conversations and confidently ask questions on a range of everyday topics Fostering meaningful interactions with deaf colleagues and customers. Demonstrate basic vocabulary related to various topics, allowing for effective expression of ideas and needs. Discover workplace-specific vocabularies relevant to their professional setting Help you engage in specialised conversations and enhance workplace communication. Invest in your communication skills and create an inclusive workplace environment. Enrol in a BSL training course CPD certified workplace oriented classes today and unlock new opportunities for effective communication with the deaf community. Course Curriculum Greetings Learn essential BSL greetings to initiate conversations and create a welcoming atmosphere. These greetings include basic phrases such as “hello,” “good morning,” “how are you?” and more which are essential for establishing rapport and building relationships with deaf individuals. The BSL Alphabet and Fingerspelling Master the BSL alphabet and develop the ability to fingerspell words accurately, enabling effective communication of names, technical terms, and unfamiliar vocabulary. This skill is particularly useful in situations where there may be unfamiliar vocabulary or technical terms that need to be spelled out. Meeting People / Questions Enhance your conversational skills by learning how to introduce yourself, engage in small talk, and ask questions in BSL. These skills will allow you to confidently interact with Deaf individuals and create meaningful connections. Additionally, understanding how to ask questions in BSL will enable you to gather information and participate actively in conversations. Numbers and Number Related Vocabulary Acquire the knowledge to express age, money, and dates accurately in BSL, enabling seamless interactions in various contexts. Mastering numbers and number-related vocabulary in BSL will also help you navigate everyday situations such as shopping, making appointments, and discussing schedules. Being able to accurately express age, money, and dates will enhance your ability to communicate effectively and independently in the Deaf community. Transport / Travel Explore BSL vocabulary related to transportation and travel, enabling you to provide clear directions and discuss travel arrangements. You will learn signs for different modes of transportation such as cars, buses, trains, and aeroplanes, as well as how to ask for and give directions. Additionally, you will be able to discuss travel plans, including booking tickets and discussing itineraries. Telling the Time / Calendar Develop proficiency in expressing time and discussing calendar events in BSL, ensuring effective scheduling and time management. You will also become familiar with discussing different calendar events such as birthdays, holidays, and appointments. This will enable you to effectively manage your schedule and plan your activities accordingly. Weather Expand your vocabulary to discuss weather conditions, enabling you to engage in casual conversations and make relevant inquiries. This skill will also allow you to understand weather forecasts and prepare for any upcoming changes in the weather. Colours Learn the BSL signs for various colours, facilitating discussions about visual elements and enhancing your ability to describe objects accurately. This knowledge will enable you to express yourself more effectively and engage in a wider range of conversations. Describing People Develop the skills to describe individuals’ appearance and characteristics in BSL, allowing you to effectively communicate observations and share information. This skill will not only enhance your ability to interact with deaf individuals but also improve your overall communication skills. Additionally, being able to describe people accurately in BSL can help you navigate social situations and build stronger connections with others. Directions Master directional vocabulary in BSL, empowering you to provide clear instructions and navigate through spaces confidently. This skill will also boost your confidence when navigating unfamiliar spaces, as you will have the ability to clearly communicate directions and understand them yourself. Workplace-Specific Vocabulary Discover workplace-specific vocabulary tailored to your professional setting, such as health and healthcare, retail and shopping, hospitality, cultural settings, and public services. Use this vocabulary to develop simple conversations and strengthen your workplace communication skills. Recognised Accreditation This course is accredited by continuing professional development (CPD). CPD UK is globally recognised by employers, professional organisations, and academic institutions, thus a certificate from CPD Certification Service creates value towards your professional goal and achievement. CPD certificates are accepted by thousands of professional bodies and government regulators here in the UK and around the world. Many organisations look for employees with CPD requirements, which means, that by doing this course, you would be a potential candidate in your respective field. Certificate of Achievement Certificate of Achievement from Lead Academy After successfully completing the live training, you will be eligible to receive your certificate of achievement as proof of your new skill. The certificate of achievement is an official credential that confirms that you successfully finished a course with Lead Academy. Certificate can be obtained in PDF version as well as hardcopy version at a free of cost.