20 Must-Read Books for Managers & Why They Are Game-Changers
A list of 20 recommended-by-experts books for mastering the art of leadership.
For every manager, each decision carries the weight of a high-stakes performance.
From steering teams through turbulent waters to navigating complex challenges, all those managerial efforts demand a nuanced understanding of leadership, communication, and strategy.
To relentlessly pursue excellence, knowledge becomes a priceless asset — often found within the pages of books.
We’ve asked 20 leaders themselves to share their insights on the must-read books that have shaped their managerial journey and why these titles are absolute game-changers.
The One Minute Manager by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson
It’s a quick read, but the principles it teaches can have a lasting impact on a manager’s effectiveness.
The authors emphasize the importance of setting clear expectations and giving frequent, specific praise to employees while also addressing and correcting mistakes in a timely manner.
Ryan Nelson, Founder and CEO, RentalRealEstate
Creativity, Inc.: Overcoming the Unseen Forces That Stand in the Way of True Inspiration by Ed Catmull
The book provides a unique perspective on how to manage an innovative, creative team drawn from Catmull’s experiences as a co-founder of Pixar Animation Studios.
The most impactful takeaway from the book is the concept of ‘plussing.’ It refers to Pixar’s practice of continuously improving ideas through constructive criticism.
Roxie Lubanovic, Co-Founder, Frostbeard Studio
The Lean Startup by Eric Ries
This book emphasizes the importance of continuous learning, experimentation, and customer feedback in the product development process.
It’s a practical guide that will equip you with the mindset and strategies needed to navigate the challenges of running a startup.
Alex Stasiak, CEO and Founder, Startup House
Shoe Dog by Phil Knight
The memoir captures Knight’s raw, honest experiences as he navigates the turbulent early days of his business.
It’s not just a success story but a powerful narrative about vision, passion, and the importance of building a brand that truly resonates with customers.
Bhavik Sarkhedi, Growth Head and CMO, Content Whale
Radical Candor by Kim Scott
Scott’s book introduces the concept of radical candor — providing direct, honest feedback while caring personally about your team members.
It provides practical guidance on fostering a culture of open communication and continuous improvement, which can significantly impact team dynamics and productivity.
Hardy Desai, Founder, Supple Digital
The Effective Executive by Peter Drucker
This classic text provides timeless advice on how leaders can improve their productivity, identify strengths, set smart goals, and make better decisions.
Drucker outlines an operating system for executives that helps them focus on high-impact work, minimize distractions, and execute with excellence. This is the book I wish I had read earlier in my career.
Luka Blaževac, CEO, Incendio Wand
Start with Why by Simon Sinek
Sinek explores the concept of the “Golden Circle” and emphasizes the significance of starting with a clear sense of purpose and vision.
This book encourages managers to inspire and motivate their teams by focusing on the “why” behind their work, which can lead to more engaged and driven employees.
Ryan Hammill, Executive Director, Ancient Language Institute
Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek
Using real-world examples, Sinek illustrates how effective leaders prioritize the well-being of their teams. It’s a compelling guide for those who want to understand the intricate dynamics that contribute to organizational success.
Catherine Cooke, Co-Founder, Upskillwise
Crucial Conversations by Al Switzler, Joseph Grenny, and Ron McMillan
The book provides a framework for handling difficult conversations effectively and offers practical tools for navigating high-stakes discussions.
Managers can benefit from the strategies outlined in this book to foster open and constructive dialogues within their teams.
Chad Sultana, Founder, Chad Sultana
Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink
This book talks about the science of motivation to challenge traditional notions and emphasizes the importance of autonomy, mastery, and purpose in driving performance.
I believe that understanding the psychology of motivation will help managers create an environment that fosters creativity, innovation, and employee satisfaction.
Michael Branover, Business Development Director, Branover Contractors Inc
Good to Great by Jim Collins
Collins and his team carried out an exhaustive study to understand why some companies make the leap to greatness while others do not.
The book provides insight into the strategies and practices that these ‘great’ companies employed and provides a roadmap for managers to implement these tactics within their teams.
Rick Elmore, CEO, Simply Noted
Meditations by Marcus Aurelius
Often, managers use ‘tips and tricks’ they have acquired from modern entrepreneurs, but these tend to become quickly dated and were often in print due solely to commercial reasons.
In contrast, there are principles that can be learned directly from the philosopher-king; ‘What stands in the way becomes the way’ is but one small example that will help any manager who may find themselves tested psychologically or existentially in the workplace.
Luke Shipman, Director and Founder, The London Ghostwriting Company
Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
his pivotal text unravels the intricacies of our cognitive machinery, which Kahneman categorizes as the impulsive System 1 and the analytical System 2.
The profound revelations about how these systems sway our judgment are critical for managers tasked with dissecting intricate business quandaries and making astute decisions amid corporate pressures.
Ace Zhuo, Business Development Director, Tech and Finance Expert, TradingFXVPS
The Art of Fairness: The Power of Decency in a World Turned Mean by David Bodanis
I recommend this book because some managers might think being fair to their staff is good but not really effective. Bodanis’s book tells incredible stories about great leadership.
He examines the basics of leadership through various stories, some old and some new. This gives a really insightful view on how to lead teams of all kinds — different sizes, shapes, and types.
Patrick Beltran, Marketing Director, Ardoz Digital
Harness the Science of Habit Formation by Charles Duhigg
Duhigg explores how habits influence individual and organizational behavior and provides actionable insights on how to create positive changes.
This book can help me, as a manager, lead my teams toward greater efficiency and productivity by harnessing the power of habits.
Stephan Baldwin, Founder, Assisted Living Center
Grit by Angela Duckworth
Duckworth’s research on grit — defined as a combination of passion and persistence — offers valuable insights for managers on how to cultivate resilience and determination within their teams.
From my perspective, this book can inspire managers to foster a growth mindset and encourage their employees to embrace challenges.
Bert Hofhuis, Founder, Every Investor
Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss
Voss, a former FBI hostage negotiator, shares real-world negotiation tactics and strategies that are equally applicable in business settings.
This book equips managers with the tools to navigate complex negotiations, resolve conflicts, and achieve mutually beneficial outcomes.
David Gaglione, Founding Partner, PS212
High Output Management by Andrew S. Grove
“High Output Management” offers timeless insights into the art of managing teams and projects effectively.
Grove’s approach to leadership, productivity, and operational excellence has profoundly influenced how startups operate and scale.
The 4-Hour Work Week by Timothy Ferriss
This book challenges traditional beliefs about work and encourages readers to think outside the box and create their own rules for success.
With practical tips and real-life examples, this book is a must-read for any manager looking to improve their efficiency and effectiveness in the workplace.
Shaun Martin, Founder and CEO, Sell My House Fast
Who Moved My Cheese? by Dr. Spencer Johnson
“Who Moved My Cheese?” provides practical lessons in leadership, adaptability, and fostering a positive team culture.
The book addresses the fear of the unknown and how individuals can overcome it to embrace new opportunities.
Mark Damsgaard, Founder, Global Residence Index
LeadLearnLeap turns business books into animated videos. You can check out their animated book summaries on their YouTube channel.
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