The best 100 Leadership books

Leadership is crucial for guiding teams towards success, fostering growth, and navigating challenges. Our meticulously selected book list on this topic offers valuable perspectives and strategies for honing leadership skills.

Delve into our collection to gain actionable insights, practical advice, and inspiring stories from top leaders. Ready to elevate your leadership capabilities and make a meaningful impact? Start exploring now!

The best 100 Leadership books
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1
Leadership Books: The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick M. Lencioni

The Five Dysfunctions of a Team

Patrick M. Lencioni
A Leadership Fable
4.5 (993 ratings)
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What's The Five Dysfunctions of a Team about?

The Five Dysfunctions of a Team (2002) presents the notion that teams are inherently dysfunctional, so deliberate steps must be taken to facilitate great teamwork. A knowledgeable team leader can do a great deal to make his or her team effective, and the book outlines practical tools for achieving this.

Who should read The Five Dysfunctions of a Team?

  • Anyone interested in the prerequisites of great teamwork
  • Anyone interested in the kind of leadership and management that facilitates great teamwork
  • Anyone interested in the interpersonal dynamics of the workplace

2
Leadership Books: Focus by Daniel Goleman

Focus

Daniel Goleman
The Hidden Driver of Excellence
4.3 (743 ratings)
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What's Focus about?

Focus (2013) is a guidebook for nurturing today’s scarcest resource: attention. Using cutting-edge research, the book reveals that sharpening our focus in a world of endless distractions is the key to professional success and personal fulfillment. What makes Goleman’s contribution special is that the book expands the definition of “focus” beyond mere concentration and calls for a mindful life in which attention is paid to the self, to others and to the planet.

Who should read Focus?

  • Workers and students who wish to improve their focus and productivity
  • Anyone who wants to learn the secret of living a focused, mindful life
  • Leaders who want to channel their vision effectively and improve their relationships with employees

3
Leadership Books: Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek

Leaders Eat Last

Simon Sinek
Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don’t
4.3 (853 ratings)
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What's Leaders Eat Last about?

Leaders Eat Last explores the influence that neurochemicals have on the way people feel and consequently act, and examines the discrepancies between how our bodies were designed to function and how they function today. Ultimately, we need true leaders to direct us back on the right path.

Who should read Leaders Eat Last?

  • Any leader, CEO or manager of a business or organization
  • Anyone interested in how biological evolution affects our behavior today
  • Anyone interested in leadership techniques

4
Leadership Books: Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace

Creativity, Inc.

Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
Overcoming the Unseen Forces That Stand in the Way of True Inspiration
4.2 (387 ratings)
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What's Creativity, Inc. about?

Creativity, Inc. explores the peaks and troughs in the history of Pixar and Disney Animation Studios along with Ed Catmull’s personal journey towards becoming the successful manager he is today. In doing so, he explains the management beliefs he has acquired along the way, and offers actionable advice on how to turn your team members into creative superstars.

Who should read Creativity, Inc.?

  • Anyone interested in successful managerial habits and leadership styles
  • Anyone managing a staff whose work requires creativity
  • Anyone truly committed to building a sustainable creative culture

5
Leadership Books: The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli

The Prince

Niccolò Machiavelli
4.5 (505 ratings)
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What's The Prince about?

The Prince is a 16th century guide on how to be an autocratic leader of a country. It explains why ends like glory and power always justify even brutal means for princes. Thanks to this book, the word “Machiavellian” came to mean using deceit and cunning to one’s advantage.

Who should read The Prince?

  • Anyone who wants to understand how autocratic leaders think
  • Anyone interested in political philosophy/history
  • Anyone who wants to know what truly cold, amoral leadership looks like

6
Leadership Books: 5 Levels of Leadership by John C. Maxwell

5 Levels of Leadership

John C. Maxwell
Proven Steps to Maximize your Potential
4.3 (285 ratings)
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What's 5 Levels of Leadership about?

5 Levels of Leadership is a step-by-step guide to becoming a true leader with a lasting influence. Using engaging real-life anecdotes and inspiring quotes from successful leaders, it describes key pitfalls that may be holding you back and explains how to overcome them.

Who should read 5 Levels of Leadership?

  • Anyone who’s working in a leadership position
  • Anyone who carries responsibility in an organizational context
  • Anyone who wants to influence others

7
Leadership Books: Walmart by Natalie Berg and Bryan Roberts

Walmart

Natalie Berg and Bryan Roberts
Key Insights and Practical Lessons from the World's Largest Retailer
4.4 (87 ratings)
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What's Walmart about?

In Walmart (2012), authors Natalie Berg and Bryan Roberts share key insights and business principles from the company that reveal how it became the biggest retailer in the world. Examining the retailer’s unprecedented success, the authors also discuss Walmart’s future challenges.

Who should read Walmart?

  • Anyone interested in business innovation
  • Anyone who wants to learn about how to run a successful retailer
  • Anyone wondering how Walmart carved its path to success

8
Leadership Books: The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership by Jim Dethmer, Diana Chapman and Kaley Warner Klemp

The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership

Jim Dethmer, Diana Chapman and Kaley Warner Klemp
A New Paradigm for Sustainable Success
4.3 (169 ratings)
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What's The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership about?

The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership (2014) teaches you how to become a conscious leader – a leader who inspires positive change, creates a great work atmosphere and builds close relationships in their personal life. Because leading is about a lot more than just giving orders.

Who should read The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership?

  • Leaders who want to create a great work atmosphere
  • People who want to be more productive
  • Those wanting to strengthen their personal relationships

9
Leadership Books: Failing Forward by John C. Maxwell

Failing Forward

John C. Maxwell
Turning Mistakes Into Stepping Stones For Success
4.5 (261 ratings)
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What's Failing Forward about?

Failing Forward (2000) provides a positive perspective on failure. These blinks draw on legendary success stories and literary anecdotes to explain the importance of failure, the advantages of embracing it and the power of leveraging your mistakes to stimulate personal growth.

Who should read Failing Forward?

  • Creative professionals struggling to take risks in their work
  • Perfectionists looking for new ways to accept and interpret their mistakes
  • Ambitious readers curious about the role of failure in success

10
Leadership Books: Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin

Extreme Ownership

Jocko Willink and Leif Babin
How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win
4.5 (773 ratings)
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What's Extreme Ownership about?

Extreme Ownership (2015) is about how Navy SEAL Team commanders lead. These blinks discuss the complex, life-and-death combat situations that Navy SEALs often have to deal with and how you can apply their skills in the world of business.

Who should read Extreme Ownership?

  • Young entrepreneurs, managers and business leaders
  • Readers interested in military leadership and tactics
  • Anyone interested in improving their leadership skills

11
Leadership Books: Multipliers by Liz Wiseman

Multipliers

Liz Wiseman
How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter
4.6 (363 ratings)
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What's Multipliers about?

Multipliers (2010) examines the difference between good leaders, known as Multipliers, who can join any team and make it flourish, and bad leaders, known as Diminishers, who can drain any team of its energy and drive. Author Liz Wiseman explains how to recognize the different types of Multipliers and Diminishers, while comparing the skills you should strive to develop with the ones you should avoid at all cost.

Who should read Multipliers?

  • Leaders and managers looking to get the best from their team
  • Workers concerned about their managers’ leadership practices
  • Anyone looking to understand the dynamics of leadership

12
Leadership Books: Boost! by Michael Bar-Eli

Boost!

Michael Bar-Eli
How the Psychology of Sports Can Enhance your Performance in Management and Work
3.9 (120 ratings)
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What's Boost! about?

In his book Boost! (2017), author Michael Bar-Eli uses decades of experience with world-class athletes, and the many hard-won lessons he’s learned along the way, to explain the dynamic power of sports psychology. The author not only shows how athletes can use psychology to their advantage, but how this element can be used to improve the performance of any team player, whether on the court or in the office.

Who should read Boost!?

  • Leaders and aspiring leaders
  • Readers interested in how psychology can improve performance
  • Athletes and former athletes

13
Leadership Books: Find Your WHY by Simon Sinek, David Mead and Peter Docker

Find Your WHY

Simon Sinek, David Mead and Peter Docker
A Practical Guide for Discovering Purpose for You and Your Team
4.2 (704 ratings)
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What's Find Your WHY about?

Find Your WHY (2017) offers something that every person and business is looking for: a true purpose. The authors provide strategies and exercises that individuals and teams alike can use to discover their most powerful motivations, and their reasons for getting up in the morning and starting the workday. This is a useful guide if you’re searching for the right job, trying to hire the right employees or hoping to gain a better understanding of yourself and the people you live and work with.

 “I think understanding your own why – your raison d’être – and ensuring your actions are consistent with it is a big part of long-term happiness and fulfillment.” – Ben H, Head of Content at Blinkist

Who should read Find Your WHY?

  • Anyone searching for purpose and direction
  • Entrepreneurs in the early stages of launching their businesses
  • Team leaders who want to set ambitious goals

14
Leadership Books: Adaptability by Max McKeown

Adaptability

Max McKeown
The Art of Winning in an Age of Uncertainty
4.2 (152 ratings)
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What's Adaptability about?

Adaptability (2012) examines a skill that’s becoming ever more important in today’s fast-paced and highly fickle business environment: the ability to adapt. It’s what makes the difference between successful innovators who go on to thrive and stick-in-the-muds who struggle to survive – or simply go under. Packed with illuminating portraits of both, these blinks analyze adaptability in action everywhere from the golf course to the battlefield and the boardroom.

Who should read Adaptability?

  • Entrepreneurs and self-starters
  • Managers and strategists
  • Marketplace Machiavellis

15
Leadership Books: The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma

The 5 AM Club

Robin Sharma
Own Your Morning. Elevate Your Life.
4.5 (11,423 ratings)
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What's The 5 AM Club about?

The 5 AM Club (2018) shows how embracing a revolutionary morning routine can deliver epic results. Through the enchanting story of an entrepreneur, an artist, and their eccentric billionaire mentor, it explains how you can use the first hour of your day to drive personal growth and get the most out of life.

Who should read The 5 AM Club?

  • Those who feel they could try and get more out of the day
  • People who want to achieve great things in life
  • Anyone in need of an energizing and positive morning routine

16
Leadership Books: The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek

The Infinite Game

Simon Sinek
4.6 (778 ratings)
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What's The Infinite Game about?

The Infinite Game (2019) is a guidebook to help today’s business leaders get back on the right track to building companies that will last for generations to come. It points out the many pitfalls that leaders fall into in the pursuit of short-term gains and shows how they can put the focus back on practices that lead to strength and stability, as well as more revenue.  

Who should read The Infinite Game?

  • Entrepreneurs and CEOs
  • Managers, supervisors and anyone looking for leadership tips
  • People curious about what makes a long-running business last

17
Leadership Books: Surrounded by Idiots by Thomas Erikson

Surrounded by Idiots

Thomas Erikson
The Four Types of Human Behavior and How to Effectively Communicate with Each in Business (and in Life)
4.3 (1,179 ratings)
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What's Surrounded by Idiots about?

Surrounded by Idiots (2014) offers insight into the four main personality types and provides methods and tips for how to use this insight in order to be more effective in getting your message across to each of them. Different people require different considerations when you’re trying to work alongside them or sell them on an idea. The more you know about each person’s personality type, the more effectively you’ll be able to communicate in your work life and private life.

Who should read Surrounded by Idiots?

  • Executives, managers and human resource workers
  • Anyone with an annoying coworker
  • People who’d like to improve their relationships

18
Leadership Books: Elevate by Joseph Deitch

Elevate

Joseph Deitch
An Essential Guide to Life
4.1 (469 ratings)
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What's Elevate about?

Elevate (2018) is an indispensable guide to upping your game and living your life to the fullest. Whether you’re looking for a career boost or want to bring more meaning and joy into your private affairs, these blinks contain an arsenal of tips and tricks to help you take things to the next level.

Who should read Elevate?

  • Anyone looking to learn important skills for entrepreneurship
  • Anyone who wants to feel more motivated
  • Anyone who wants to enjoy more success and fun in life

19
Leadership Books: Leadership Strategy and Tactics by Jocko Willink

Leadership Strategy and Tactics

Jocko Willink
Field Manual
4.5 (487 ratings)
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What's Leadership Strategy and Tactics about?

Leadership Strategy and Tactics (2020) teaches you how to take the skills of a high-functioning Navy SEAL team and apply them to your workplace. You’ll learn about practices such as Extreme Ownership, and find out why humility is better than arrogance. These tips will help you to leave your ego at the door and to remember that your team’s success should always come before personal success.

Who should read Leadership Strategy and Tactics?

  • CEOs, managers, and team leaders who need some guidance
  • Employees hoping to get promoted to a supervisor position
  • People who work in human resources

20
Leadership Books: Sun Tzu and the Art of Business by Mark R. McNeilly

Sun Tzu and the Art of Business

Mark R. McNeilly
Six Strategic Principles for Managers
4.5 (340 ratings)
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What's Sun Tzu and the Art of Business about?

Sun Tzu and the Art of Business (1996) explains how ancient Chinese general Sun Tzu’s classic text The Art of War applies to the hyper-competitive environment of modern business. These blinks explore how business leaders can integrate Sun Tzu’s battle strategies into their own plans for market domination.

Who should read Sun Tzu and the Art of Business?

  • Entrepreneurs hoping to disrupt their industry
  • Strategy consultants wanting a new angle
  • Business students looking for fresh insights

21
Leadership Books: Leadership Is Language by David Marquet

Leadership Is Language

David Marquet
The Hidden Power of What You Say – and What You Don’t
4.5 (249 ratings)
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What's Leadership Is Language about?

Leadership is Language (2020) is a playbook for successful team management. Written by a former US Navy captain, it teaches leaders how they can change their language and mindsets in order to improve decision-making, empower workers, and achieve better results.

Who should read Leadership Is Language?

  • Team leaders, executives, and managers – current or aspiring
  • People interested in the way human language shapes human behavior

22
Leadership Books: Dare to Lead by Brené Brown

Dare to Lead

Brené Brown
Brave work. Tough conversations. Whole hearts.
4.3 (875 ratings)
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What's Dare to Lead about?

Dare to Lead (2018) explores how to find the inner courage to lead a great team. Drawing on Brené Brown’s research and experience as a leadership coach, it shows how you can harness your emotions, quash your fear of failure, and become a daring leader in an increasingly competitive world. 

Who should read Dare to Lead?

  • Business psychology buffs seeking new insights
  • Leaders searching for fresh ways to connect with their team
  • Anyone trying to build their courage in the workplace

23
Leadership Books: Start With Why by Simon Sinek

Start With Why

Simon Sinek
How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action
4.6 (1,457 ratings)
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What's Start With Why about?

Start With Why (2009) tackles a fundamental question: What makes some organizations and people more innovative, influential, and profitable than others? Based on best-selling author Simon Sinek’s hugely influential lecture of the same name, the third most-watched TED talk of all time, these blinks unpack the answer to that conundrum. As Sinek’s examples show, it’s all about asking why rather than what.

Who should read Start With Why?

  • Managers and team leaders 
  • Entrepreneurs building their brand 
  • Self-starters in need of a bit of inspiration

24
Leadership Books: Radical Candor by Kim Scott

Radical Candor

Kim Scott
Be a Kickass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity
4.6 (744 ratings)
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What's Radical Candor about?

Radical Candor (2017) is a roadmap for leaders looking to establish the best possible relationship with their employees. Its insightful approach to management shows how to create a working environment where great ideas emerge, individuals reach their full potential, and employees are proud to follow their boss.

Who should read Radical Candor?

  • Managers and business leaders
  • Coaches and organizational psychologists
  • Entrepreneurs and self-employed people

25
Leadership Books: Leadership by Henry Kissinger

Leadership

Henry Kissinger
Six Studies in World Strategy
4.3 (426 ratings)
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What's Leadership about?

Leadership (2022) is a detailed analysis of six monumental twentieth-century leaders. By examining both the circumstances that formed these leaders and the strategies they used to shepherd their respective nations through periods of turmoil, it presents invaluable lessons for anyone working to shape the world’s future. From Charles de Gaulle’s strategy of will to Anwar Sadat’s strategy of transcendence and beyond, it serves as a historical debriefing on some of the defining leadership strategies of the last century.

Who should read Leadership?

  • History and politics geeks
  • Aspiring politicians
  • Biography lovers

26
Leadership Books: Mastering Communication at Work by Ethan F. Becker and Jon Wortmann

Mastering Communication at Work

Ethan F. Becker and Jon Wortmann
How to Lead, Manage, and Influence
4.4 (706 ratings)
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00:00

What's Mastering Communication at Work about?

Mastering Communication at Work (revised edition, 2021) is a classic guide on leading in the workplace through strong communication skills. It teaches you how to communicate effectively by understanding your listener’s tendencies and motivations.

Who should read Mastering Communication at Work?

  • Managers looking for new communication tactics
  • Employees aiming to make the next step up
  • Executives who want to improve relations with staff

27
Leadership Books: The Art of War (new version) by Sun Tzu

The Art of War (new version)

Sun Tzu
4.0 (1,688 ratings)
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What's The Art of War (new version) about?

The Art of War (fifth century BCE) is a Chinese military treatise that many global figures, including Mao Zedong and Douglas MacArthur, have used to inform their leadership strategies. Along with military tactics that can be applied to culture, politics, business, and sports, it highlights the skills good leaders need to have. 

Who should read The Art of War (new version)?

  • Anyone interested in the foundations of good leadership
  • Those who want to gain a competitive advantage 
  • People who find themselves in confrontational situations

28
Leadership Books: The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John C. Maxwell

The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership

John C. Maxwell
Follow Them and People Will Follow You
4.4 (634 ratings)
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What's The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership about?

The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership (1998) collects key rules, principles, and examples from a diverse collection of inspiring leaders throughout history. We often speak about “born leaders,” as if a person either has the special X factor of leadership or they don’t. In fact, leadership is learned –⁠ and by studying what enabled the world’s best leaders to attract followers and make an impact, we too can do the same. 

Who should read The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership?

  • Managers, founders, executives, and CEOs
  • Activists seeking to make an impact
  • Anyone who wants to improve their people skills

29
Leadership Books: Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell

Buy Back Your Time

Dan Martell
Get Unstuck, Reclaim Your Freedom, and Build Your Empire
4.6 (347 ratings)
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What's Buy Back Your Time about?

Buy Back Your Time (2023) teaches entrepreneurs how to hire the right people for the right tasks, so they can free up the time they need to build their empire. Practical advice and success stories guide those who feel stuck in their busy lives out of the tedium of small chores and into the limitless field of pure production.

Who should read Buy Back Your Time?

  • Entrepreneurs who are looking to scale their business
  • Anyone who feels stuck in the daily grind of work
  • Managers trying to find ways to inspire employees

30
Leadership Books: The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication by John C. Maxwell

The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication

John C. Maxwell
Apply Them and Make the Most of Your Message
4.4 (602 ratings)
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00:00

What's The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication about?

The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication (2023) addresses the fear of public speaking. It offers tried-and-true techniques that can transform any beginner or average speaker into a trusted and effective communicator.

Who should read The 16 Undeniable Laws of Communication?

  • Anyone trying to improve their communication skills
  • Speakers addressing anyone from small groups to stadium crowds
  • Leaders and organizers looking to inspire their teams

31
Leadership Books: Death by Meeting by Patrick M. Lencioni

Death by Meeting

Patrick M. Lencioni
A Leadership Fable...About Solving the Most Painful Problem in Business
3.8 (4 ratings)
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What's Death by Meeting about?

Death by Meeting (2004) is a part-fable, part-instruction guide to the pitfalls of dull and unproductive meetings. It highlights why meetings can be so damaging to team morale and proposes a fresh approach – relying on healthy conflict and a clear purpose – to keep leaders and participants engaged. 

Who should read Death by Meeting?

  • Team leaders wanting to enhance meeting effectiveness
  • Executives striving to boost team engagement
  • Consultants advising clients on best practices for organizational health

32
Leadership Books: The Art of Clear Thinking by Hasard Lee

The Art of Clear Thinking

Hasard Lee
A Stealth Fighter Pilot's Timeless Rules for Making Tough Decisions
3.7 (628 ratings)
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What's The Art of Clear Thinking about?

The Art of Clear Thinking (2023) is a practical guide to decision-making as seen through the lens of a US fighter pilot. It introduces readers to the ACE Helix framework employed by those engaged in air combat while prompting you to consider how the underlying principles could be of benefit in your own life. 

Who should read The Art of Clear Thinking?

  • Key decision-makers in any field
  • Individuals keen to improve their ability to think clearly and critically 
  • People interested in military operations

33
Leadership Books: The Art of Persuasion by Bob Burg

The Art of Persuasion

Bob Burg
Winning Without Intimidation
4.0 (44 ratings)
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What's The Art of Persuasion about?

The Art of Persuasion (1998) explores strategies for influencing others effectively and ethically by encouraging positive relationships and clear communication. It emphasizes the importance of empathy, understanding, and creating mutually beneficial outcomes. Through practical techniques and relatable anecdotes, it demonstrates how to navigate objections, build trust, and inspire cooperation.

Who should read The Art of Persuasion?

  • Business professionals seeking ethical persuasion techniques
  • Salespeople aiming to build stronger client relationships
  • Individuals interested in personal growth through communication

34
Leadership Books: Your Next Five Moves by Patrick Bet-David

Your Next Five Moves

Patrick Bet-David
Master the Art of Business Strategy
3.9 (90 ratings)
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What's Your Next Five Moves about?

Your Next Five Moves (2020) focuses on strategic thinking and how to master the art of anticipating future challenges and opportunities. It provides guidance on clarifying goals, understanding oneself and others, and developing a step-by-step plan to achieve success in business and life.  Through practical insights and actionable strategies, it empowers individuals to think multiple steps ahead and make informed decisions that drive long-term success.

Who should read Your Next Five Moves?

  • Aspiring entrepreneurs seeking strategic guidance and business success
  • Business leaders looking to refine their decision-making skills
  • Anyone interested in mastering long-term planning and foresight

35
Leadership Books: Management 3.0 by Jurgen Appelo

Management 3.0

Jurgen Appelo
Leading Agile Developers, Developing Agile Leaders
3.8 (10 ratings)
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00:00

What's Management 3.0 about?

Management 3.0 (2010) shows you how to lead modern organizations as living systems rather than machines. You'll learn practical approaches to creating environments where teams naturally thrive and adapt, drawing from successful practices at companies like Microsoft, Spotify, and ING Bank. This fresh perspective transforms complexity from an obstacle into an advantage, helping you build organizations that grow stronger through continuous adaptation.

Who should read Management 3.0?

  • Leaders seeking fresh approaches to managing complex modern organizations
  • Teams looking to build stronger capabilities and more effective practices
  • Managers ready to move beyond traditional command-and-control approaches

36
Leadership Books: Market Wizards by Jack D. Schwager

Market Wizards

Jack D. Schwager
Interviews with Top Traders
4.1 (26 ratings)
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What's Market Wizards about?

Market Wizards (2012) pulls back the curtain on how the world’s best traders consistently dominate the markets. Through candid interviews, financial legends reveal the strategies, mindsets, and discipline that turned them into millionaires and billionaires. These lessons could be the key to transforming your own trading game.

Who should read Market Wizards?

  • Traders looking to refine their strategy and psychological edge
  • Investors interested in the mindset of market legends and risk-takers
  • Thinkers fascinated by decision-making, uncertainty, and financial mastery

37
Leadership Books: Conversational Intelligence by Judith E. Glaser

Conversational Intelligence

Judith E. Glaser
How Great Leaders Build Trust and Get Extraordinary Results
4.2 (48 ratings)
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00:00

What's Conversational Intelligence about?

Conversational Intelligence (2014) explores how brain chemistry influences the way we communicate, explaining why some conversations build trust while others create barriers. By combining insights from neuroscience with practical strategies, it offers tools to turn daily interactions into powerful opportunities for connection, innovation, and meaningful change.

Who should read Conversational Intelligence?

  • Leaders and managers looking to build more collaborative, innovative teams
  • Negotiators and mediators handling complex conversations
  • Anyone experiencing communication challenges in personal or professional relationships

38
Leadership Books: Difficult Conversations Don't Have to Be Difficult by Jon Gordon & Amy P. Kelly

Difficult Conversations Don't Have to Be Difficult

Jon Gordon & Amy P. Kelly
A Simple, Smart Way to Make Your Relationships and Team Better
3.9 (159 ratings)
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00:00

What's Difficult Conversations Don't Have to Be Difficult about?

Difficult Conversations Don’t Have to Be Difficult (2024) is a practical guide to navigating challenging discussions. With a focus on work relationships, it provides a step-by-step method to approach difficult conversations with confidence, empathy, and skill. In doing so, it helps transform potential conflicts into opportunities for growth and positive change.

Who should read Difficult Conversations Don't Have to Be Difficult?

  • Anyone looking to improve their communication skills
  • Business leaders wanting to strengthen their interpersonal skills and build strong teams
  • HR professionals looking for additional strategies for handling conflict

39
Leadership Books: How to Become a People Magnet by Marc Reklau

How to Become a People Magnet

Marc Reklau
62 Strategies for Powerful Relationships and Positive Impact
4.3 (189 ratings)
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00:00

What's How to Become a People Magnet about?

How to Become a People Magnet (2018) reveals the psychology behind successful relationships and provides practical tips for improving social skills. It emphasizes authenticity and offers actionable advice on creating lasting impressions, effective communication, and building deeper connections.

Who should read How to Become a People Magnet?

  • Networkers seeking to build powerful relationships
  • Professionals aiming to enhance their influence
  • Anyone interested in improving their social skills and achieving lasting happiness

40
Leadership Books: The First Minute by Chris Fenning

The First Minute

Chris Fenning
How to Start Conversations that Get Results
4.1 (651 ratings)
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00:00

What's The First Minute about?

The First Minute (2020) explores effective techniques for mastering the crucial initial moments of communication, aiming to enhance the impact of spoken interactions. It offers strategies to organize thoughts and deliver messages with clarity and confidence, ensuring that speakers can engage and persuade their audiences from the start.

Who should read The First Minute?

  • Business professionals seeking improved presentation skills
  • Sales representatives working on more effective pitches
  • Team leaders looking to boost meeting productivity

41
Leadership Books: No Ego by Cy Wakeman

No Ego

Cy Wakeman
Stop Drama, Eliminate Entitlement, Maximize Results
4.2 (227 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's No Ego about?

No Ego (2017) is a fresh take on leadership and a challenge to conventional wisdom. Focusing on eliminating workplace drama and emotional waste, it provides practical strategies for fostering accountability, resilience, and innovation. Wakeman's approach empowers managers and workers alike to embrace a culture of personal responsibility – a culture that, ultimately, will reduce stress, increase engagement, and engender a productive and positive work environment.

Who should read No Ego?

  • Leaders looking for new management techniques
  • Employees interested in self-motivation
  • Frustrated managers and executives

42
Leadership Books: The 12 Traits of the Greats by Dave Martin

The 12 Traits of the Greats

Dave Martin
Mastering The Qualities Of Uncommon Achievers
4.1 (255 ratings)
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What's The 12 Traits of the Greats about?

The 12 Traits of the Greats (2020) explores twelve key characteristics that are essential for achieving greatness in any field. It distills wisdom from the lives and habits of highly successful individuals, offering practical advice and inspiring stories. By examining traits like vision, passion, and discipline, it provides readers with actionable insights to help them cultivate these qualities in their own lives.

Who should read The 12 Traits of the Greats?

  • Aspiring entrepreneurs seeking personal and professional growth
  • Business leaders aiming to enhance leadership skills
  • Students looking to develop success-oriented habits

43
Leadership Books: Principles by Ray Dalio

Principles

Ray Dalio
Life and Work
3.8 (109 ratings)
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00:00

What's Principles about?

Principles (2017) is a comprehensive guide on personal and professional development, based on the author's own experiences as the founder of Bridgewater Associates. Focusing on radical truth and transparency, the book emphasizes how having a set of core principles guiding every action can make decision-making an easy process, no matter what situation you’re in. 

Who should read Principles?

  • Managers who want to become better leaders
  • Entrepreneurs interested in starting their own business 
  • Readers curious about personal growth and improvement

44
Leadership Books: Speak Like a CEO by Suzanne Bates

Speak Like a CEO

Suzanne Bates
Secrets for Commanding Attention and Getting Results
4.3 (251 ratings)
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00:00

What's Speak Like a CEO about?

Speak Like a CEO (2005) offers practical advice for developing a commanding presence, handling various speaking situations, and creating effective self-improvement plans. It includes real-world examples and actionable strategies to help individuals at all levels become compelling communicators.

Who should read Speak Like a CEO?

  • Newly-minted managers seeking to establish a communication style
  • Seasoned CEOs ready to level up their communication skills
  • Aspiring executives who want to speak their way into the top job

45
Leadership Books: IRREPLACEABLE by Pascal Bornet

IRREPLACEABLE

Pascal Bornet
The Art of Standing Out in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
4.1 (80 ratings)
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00:00

What's IRREPLACEABLE about?

IRREPLACEABLE ( 2024 ) explores the rapidly evolving role of artificial intelligence and automation in the workforce. It examines how these technologies are reshaping industries, while also emphasizing the importance of uniquely human skills that cannot be replicated by machines. By offering insights on how individuals and businesses can adapt to this transformation, it provides a framework for the use of technology in a manner that enhances personal, professional, and entrepreneurial growth.

Who should read IRREPLACEABLE?

  • Anyone curious about AI’s impact on jobs
  • Business leaders aiming to integrate AI into their companies
  • Individuals wanting to stay relevant in an automated world.

46
Leadership Books: Becoming a Person of Influence by John C. Maxwell, Jim Dornan

Becoming a Person of Influence

John C. Maxwell, Jim Dornan
How to Positively Impact the Lives of Others
4.4 (212 ratings)
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00:00

What's Becoming a Person of Influence about?

Becoming a Person of Influence (1997) is a guide to positively impacting others, regardless of your position or title. It explores the four stages of influence – modeling, motivating, mentoring, and multiplying – and how the principles and practices outlined can be used to elevate both personal and professional success. 

Who should read Becoming a Person of Influence?

  • Leaders, managers, and entrepreneurs seeking to expand their influence
  • Coaches and mentors guiding personal and professional growth
  • Anyone seeking to improve communication and leadership skills

47
Leadership Books: The 80/20 CEO by Bill Canady

The 80/20 CEO

Bill Canady
Take Command of Your Business in 100 Days
4.1 (230 ratings)
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00:00

What's The 80/20 CEO about?

The 80/20 CEO (2024) presents a comprehensive operating system for business leadership. It offers a strategic framework designed to help executives guide their organizations toward profitable growth, emphasizing efficiency in achieving business objectives.

Who should read The 80/20 CEO?

  • Entrepreneurs looking to create and scale their businesses
  • CEOs and executives of struggling or underperforming companies
  • Business consultants specializing in turnarounds and growth strategy

48
Leadership Books: Negotiation Made Simple by John Lowry

Negotiation Made Simple

John Lowry
A Practical Guide for Making Strategic Decisions, Finding Solutions, and Delivering the Best Deal
4.4 (175 ratings)
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00:00

What's Negotiation Made Simple about?

Negotiation Made Simple (2024) is a practical guide to mastering the art of negotiation in both professional and personal contexts. The book outlines five essential skills that anyone can develop to become a more effective negotiator, transforming everyday interactions into opportunities for mutual benefit and long-term success.. 

Who should read Negotiation Made Simple?

  • Business professionals negotiating deals, contracts, and partnerships
  • Parents and partners dealing with conflict-resolution and decision-making
  • Anyone navigating complex stakeholder interests and building consensus

49
Leadership Books: Collaborating with the Enemy by Adam Kahane

Collaborating with the Enemy

Adam Kahane
How to Work with People You Don't Agree with or Like or Trust
4.1 (32 ratings)
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00:00

What's Collaborating with the Enemy about?

Collaborating with the Enemy (2017) offers a fresh perspective on tackling complex challenges in an increasingly polarized world. It introduces practical strategies for turning conflicts into opportunities, offering guidance on working effectively with those we may see as adversaries to uncover breakthrough solutions and drive meaningful innovation.

Who should read Collaborating with the Enemy?

  • Leaders managing conflicts within diverse or polarized teams
  • Community organizers and activists working on contentious local issues
  • Professionals seeking creative solutions through unconventional partnerships

50
Leadership Books: The Skills-Powered Organization by Ravin Jesuthasan, Tanuj Kapilashrami

The Skills-Powered Organization

Ravin Jesuthasan, Tanuj Kapilashrami
The Journey to the Next-Generation Enterprise
4.1 (39 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Skills-Powered Organization about?

The Skills-Powered Organization (2024) explores the shift from job-based to skill-based organizational models in today’s business world. It provides a framework for companies to reinvent themselves, offering guidance on developing new organizational capabilities and work systems to enhance agility, productivity, and value creation.

Who should read The Skills-Powered Organization?

  • CEOs and business leaders looking to understand emerging workforce trends
  • HR executives seeking insights into future-oriented talent management strategies
  • Strategy consultants advising clients on long-term competitiveness and adaptability

51
Leadership Books: Raise Your Game by Alan Stein Jr., Jon Sternfeld

Raise Your Game

Alan Stein Jr., Jon Sternfeld
High-Performance Secrets from the Best of the Best
4.4 (183 ratings)
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00:00

What's Raise Your Game about?

Raise Your Game (2020) reveals how discipline, preparation, and focus drive success in any field. With lessons from top athletes and leaders, it delivers powerful insights to help you build unstoppable habits. Whether it’s Kobe Bryant’s legendary work ethic or Mark Cuban’s fierce commitment to preparation, you’ll be ready to push your limits and hit new heights.

Who should read Raise Your Game?

  • Anyone wanting to develop high-performance habits
  • Business leaders seeking strategies to boost team performance and culture
  • Athletes aiming to apply mental discipline to excel in their sport

52
Leadership Books: Working with Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman

Working with Emotional Intelligence

Daniel Goleman
The Crucial Role of EQ in the Workplace
4.3 (129 ratings)
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00:00

What's Working with Emotional Intelligence about?

Working with Emotional Intelligence (1999) explores how emotional intelligence (EQ) plays a key part in professional success, surpassing cognitive abilities like IQ or technical expertise. It shows that skills like self-awareness, empathy, and social competence are key to career advancement and offers practical insights for anyone looking to enhance their professional life through emotional intelligence.

Who should read Working with Emotional Intelligence?

  • Aspiring leaders who want to enhance their promotion chances by cultivating EQ
  • Managers brushing up on conflict resolution strategies and interpersonal skills
  • HR professionals looking to identify and nurture employees with high EQ levels

53
Leadership Books: Fix It by Roger Connors, Tom Smith

Fix It

Roger Connors, Tom Smith
Getting Accountability Right
4.1 (15 ratings)
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00:00

What's Fix It about?

Fix It (2016) highlights the importance of accountability in driving workplace performance and engagement. Through identifying common challenges that lead to underperformance, it offers practical strategies to cultivate responsibility at all levels within an organization. By encouraging employees to take ownership of their actions and results, the framework promotes a culture of accountability and improved outcomes.

Who should read Fix It?

  • Leaders looking to improve team performance
  • Managers struggling with employee engagement
  • Anyone ready to take ownership of their career in business

54
Leadership Books: The Leader's Guide to Mindfulness by Audrey Tang

The Leader's Guide to Mindfulness

Audrey Tang
How to Use Soft Skills to Get Hard Results
3.8 (26 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Leader's Guide to Mindfulness about?

The Leader’s Guide to Mindfulness (2018) explores how the “soft” skill of mindfulness can deliver leaders “hard” results at work, at home, and beyond. Through actionable insights, it emphasizes the importance of aligning personal values with professional objectives, enabling leaders to inspire and motivate others in a way that is both sustainable and authentic.

Who should read The Leader's Guide to Mindfulness?

  • Leaders seeking to foster healthier and more productive work environments 
  • Anyone struggling to find a sustainable work-life balance 
  • Coaches or mentors supporting leadership development 

55
Leadership Books: This Is Strategy by Seth Godin

This Is Strategy

Seth Godin
Make Better Plans
4.0 (86 ratings)
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00:00

What's This Is Strategy about?

This is Strategy (2024) explores strategy as a mindset rather than a rigid plan, encouraging you to embrace adaptability and intentionality in your decision-making. It offers insights on influencing systems and prioritizing long-term goals to create meaningful, sustainable change.

Who should read This Is Strategy?

  • Innovators seeking to influence systems and drive change
  • Problem-solvers creating impactful and sustainable strategies
  • Decision-makers balancing short-term actions with future outcomes

56
Leadership Books: Bigger Than You by Kelly Roach

Bigger Than You

Kelly Roach
The Entrepreneur's Guild to Building an Unstoppable Team
4.1 (33 ratings)
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00:00

What's Bigger Than You about?

Bigger Than You (2018) shows how to create a team that fuels your business growth, boosts your profitability, and frees you to focus on what matters most. Learn how to hire strategically, build powerful systems, and lead with clarity to transform your company into a self-sustaining enterprise. If you’re ready to scale without burning out, this guide gives you the tools to make it happen.

Who should read Bigger Than You?

  • Entrepreneurs seeking to scale their businesses without burning out
  • Business leaders looking to build high-performing, self-sustaining teams
  • Professionals interested in actionable strategies for growth and leadership

57
Leadership Books: Control the Narrative by Lida Citroën

Control the Narrative

Lida Citroën
The Executive's Guide to Building, Pivoting and Repairing Your Reputation
4.5 (12 ratings)
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00:00

What's Control the Narrative about?

Control the Narrative (2024) reveals how to strategically shape and manage your personal brand to advance your career objectives. It provides a framework for building, pivoting, or repairing your professional reputation by identifying core values and implementing targeted branding strategies and tactics.

Who should read Control the Narrative?

  • Business leaders navigating reputation challenges in a digital age
  • College and university students looking to build a strong foundation for their careers
  • Anyone who wants their story to reflect their identity and values

58
Leadership Books: The Purposeful Decision Maker by Pádraig Ó Céidigh

The Purposeful Decision Maker

Pádraig Ó Céidigh
A Guide to Making Great Decisions in Life and Business
3.8 (38 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Purposeful Decision Maker about?

The Purposeful Decision Maker (2024) shares valuable tools and real-world insights to help you make better, more confident choices in both life and business. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just getting started, these tips will transform how you approach your toughest choices with clarity and confidence. It’s time to stop the guesswork and start making strategic decisions. 

Who should read The Purposeful Decision Maker?

  • Leaders looking to make smarter, values-driven decisions
  • Entrepreneurs building purposeful and resilient businesses
  • Anyone seeking personal growth through better decision-making

59
Leadership Books: Never Lead Alone by Keith Ferrazzi

Never Lead Alone

Keith Ferrazzi
10 Shifts from Leadership to Teamship
4.3 (36 ratings)
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00:00

What's Never Lead Alone about?

Never Lead Alone (2024) reveals why traditional top-down leadership is no longer effective in today's complex business environment. It presents ten essential shifts in mindset, behavior, and culture that transform conventional leadership into collaborative, agile teamship, unlocking greater innovation, engagement, and organizational success. 

Who should read Never Lead Alone?

  • Leaders navigating rapid organizational change
  • Managers struggling team engagement and innovativeness
  • Traditional leaders whose approach is becoming less effective

60
Leadership Books: A Year of Creativity by Kathryn Jacob, Sue Unerman

A Year of Creativity

Kathryn Jacob, Sue Unerman
52 Smart Ideas for Boosting Creativity, Innovation and Inspiration at Work
3.5 (41 ratings)
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00:00

What's A Year of Creativity about?

A Year of Creativity (2024) shows how to bring more creativity and fresh ideas into professional life with practical strategies. It provides 52 weekly lessons to help spark innovation, improve teamwork, and tackle challenges in dynamic business environments. By encouraging a shift from routine methods to creative thinking, it inspires readers to create meaningful change and achieve lasting success. 

Who should read A Year of Creativity?

  • Ambitious professionals seeking to enhance workplace creativity
  • Dynamic teams looking to improve collaboration skills
  • Curious learners exploring practical approaches to innovation

61
Leadership Books: Momentum by Sam Silverstein

Momentum

Sam Silverstein
How to Avoid Going in the Wrong Direction
4.1 (40 ratings)
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00:00

What's Momentum about?

Momentum (2024) aims to help people move forward with purpose. If you’re feeling stuck, you’ve come to the right place. Learn how to build momentum and make progress, in both your personal and professional life.

Who should read Momentum?

  • Anyone who feels stuck or directionless
  • Procrastinators
  • People interested in self-development

62
Leadership Books: The One Minute Manager Meets the Monkey by Kenneth H. Blanchard, William Oncken, Hal Burrows

The One Minute Manager Meets the Monkey

Kenneth H. Blanchard, William Oncken, Hal Burrows
Don’t Take On the Problem if the Problem Isn’t Yours. That Monkey Doesn’t Belong to You!
4.3 (40 ratings)
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00:00

What's The One Minute Manager Meets the Monkey about?

The One Minute Manager Meets the Monkey (1989) is a business parable which explores how managers can improve productivity and reduce stress by mastering the art of delegation. It introduces the concept of “monkeys,” representing tasks or responsibilities that often shift unnecessarily from employees to managers. By keeping these monkeys with their rightful owners, it helps leaders focus on their priorities while empowering team members to take ownership of their work.

Who should read The One Minute Manager Meets the Monkey?

  • Managers seeking to improve delegation and time management
  • Team leaders aiming to empower their team members
  • Professionals interested in enhancing leadership efficiency skills

63
Leadership Books: The Seven Tensions of Negotiation by Cash Nickerson

The Seven Tensions of Negotiation

Cash Nickerson
Breathe and Let the Opposition Make the Tough Decisions
3.7 (26 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Seven Tensions of Negotiation about?

The Seven Tensions of Negotiation (2024) explores the fundamental forces that shape every negotiation, from casual conversations to high-stakes business deals. Through examining relationship dynamics, timing choices, power balances, and team interactions, it reveals how understanding and working with tension – rather than against it – leads to more successful negotiation outcomes. 

Who should read The Seven Tensions of Negotiation?

  • Business professionals who regularly engage in negotiations and deal-making
  • Sales professionals seeking to understand the subtle dynamics that influence customer interactions
  • Folks facing important personal negotiations, from family decisions to major purchases

64
Leadership Books: Start with No by Jim Camp

Start with No

Jim Camp
The Negotiating Tools That the Pros Don't Want You to Know
3.9 (15 ratings)
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00:00

What's Start with No about?

Start with No (2002) offers a bold, unconventional approach to negotiation that applies to everything from high-stakes business deals to everyday family decisions. It introduces a practical framework designed to help negotiators stay in control, prioritize what truly matters, and achieve long-term, meaningful results. By applying these strategies, negotiators can approach both complex agreements and routine conversations with greater clarity, confidence, and effectiveness.

Who should read Start with No?

  • Professionals seeking more effective negotiation results
  • Individuals who dislike aggressive bargaining tactics
  • Leaders seeking to boost their deal-making confidence

65
Leadership Books: Strategic Storytelling by Anjali Sharma

Strategic Storytelling

Anjali Sharma
Why Some Stories Drive Your Success at Work But Others Don’t
4.3 (11 ratings)
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00:00

What's Strategic Storytelling about?

Strategic Storytelling (2024) is a practical guide for leaders, managers, and communicators looking to transform information into impactful narratives. It provides actionable techniques to craft stories that resonate emotionally, connect with audiences, and inspire meaningful change. By focusing on clarity, relatability, and context, it demonstrates how storytelling can drive decisions, align teams, and turn values and insights into powerful tools for progress.

Who should read Strategic Storytelling?

  • Leaders and managers seeking to inspire action through storytelling
  • Communicators hoping to connect with audiences on an emotional level
  • Professionals looking to turn data and values into impactful stories

66
Leadership Books: The Entrepreneurial Mindset Advantage by Gary G. Schoeniger

The Entrepreneurial Mindset Advantage

Gary G. Schoeniger
The Hidden Logic That Unleashes Human Potential
3.6 (14 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Entrepreneurial Mindset Advantage about?

The Entrepreneurial Mindset Advantage (2024) shows you how to spot hidden opportunities, fuel your creativity, and transform your life. It weaves everyday entrepreneurial insights with motivational science, delivering practical ways to think and act like an innovator. By using these principles, you can tap into a resourcefulness that boosts your success and empowers everyone around you.

Who should read The Entrepreneurial Mindset Advantage?

  • Aspiring entrepreneurs looking to develop a problem-solving mindset
  • Business leaders seeking to foster innovation within their teams
  • Educators and mentors aiming to teach practical entrepreneurial thinking

67
Leadership Books: Talent by Tyler Cowen & Daniel Gross

Talent

Tyler Cowen & Daniel Gross
How to Identify Energizers, Creatives, and Winners Around the World
4.3 (17 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Talent about?

Talent (2022) explores how to identify and attract exceptional individuals who can drive innovation and success in any organization. It offers practical strategies and unconventional insights for recognizing creativity, ambition, and energy in people beyond traditional metrics. By rethinking the qualities that define true talent, it provides a framework for finding and nurturing top performers.

Who should read Talent?

  • Ambitious entrepreneurs seeking to build high-performing teams
  • Forward-thinking managers aiming to attract top talent
  • Anyone eager to identify and nurture exceptional talent

68
Leadership Books: The Next Level by Scott Eblin

The Next Level

Scott Eblin
What Insiders Know About Executive Success
4.2 (5 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Next Level about?

The Next Level (2010) addresses the challenging transition to executive roles, providing a practical framework for identifying which behaviors to maintain and which to leave behind when stepping into higher leadership positions. With specific guidance on both what to embrace and what to avoid, it helps newly promoted executives build the confidence and capabilities needed for success at the next level.

Who should read The Next Level?

  • Newly promoted execs navigating those crucial first months of a new role
  • High performers eyeing the next level of their career
  • Mentors and coaches guiding others through leadership transitions

69
Leadership Books: Why Simple Wins by Lisa Bodell

Why Simple Wins

Lisa Bodell
Escape the Complexity Trap and Get to Work that Matters
4.2 (29 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Why Simple Wins about?

Why Simple Wins (2017) is for anyone who feels like they’re drowning in endless meetings, redundant processes, and unnecessary complexity at work. It reveals how simplifying your organization can unlock creativity, boost productivity, and bring focus to the work that truly matters. Find out how you can escape the chaos and create a culture of clarity and purpose.

Who should read Why Simple Wins?

  • Corporate leaders and executives
  • Managers and team leaders
  • Business consultants and entrepreneurs

70
Leadership Books: How Successful People Lead by John C. Maxwell

How Successful People Lead

John C. Maxwell
Taking Your Influence to the Next Level
4.1 (73 ratings)
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00:00

What's How Successful People Lead about?

How Successful People Lead (2013) explores the five distinct levels of leadership and how individuals can progress through each stage to become more effective and influential leaders. It outlines practical strategies for building strong relationships, developing others, and creating lasting impact within organizations. By understanding and applying these leadership principles, you can learn how to inspire greater trust, drive team performance, and achieve long-term success.

Who should read How Successful People Lead?

  • New leaders looking for practical advice on how to be effective
  • Those hoping to grow into positions of leadership and want to hit the ground running
  • Anyone looking to develop and cultivate their leadership skills

71
Leadership Books: The Flexibility Paradigm by Manar Sweillam Morales

The Flexibility Paradigm

Manar Sweillam Morales
Humanizing the Workplace for Productivity, Profitability, and Possibility
3.0 (1 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Flexibility Paradigm about?

The Flexibility Paradigm (2025) reveals how organizations can transform their workplace culture by implementing comprehensive flexibility beyond remote work arrangements. This practical guide shows leaders how to measure success, overcome resistance, and create lasting change that benefits both business outcomes and employee wellbeing. 

Who should read The Flexibility Paradigm?

  • C-suite executives and organizational leaders looking to modernize their workplace culture
  • Middle managers transitioning to leading remote and hybrid teams
  • Anyone guiding cultural transformations in their workplace or organization

72
Leadership Books: The Unaccountability Machine by Dan Davies

The Unaccountability Machine

Dan Davies
Why Big Systems Make Terrible Decisions & And How the World Lost Its Mind
3.7 (3 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Unaccountability Machine about?

The Unaccountability Machine (2024) explores how large institutions and systems often lead to decisions that defy logic and accountability. It examines the role of bureaucracy, misaligned incentives, and structural complexity in creating environments where responsibility is diffused and poor outcomes become inevitable. Drawing on insights from management cybernetics, it also proposes strategies to identify and address these systemic flaws.

Who should read The Unaccountability Machine?

  • Curious professionals navigating large bureaucratic systems
  • Strategic policymakers addressing institutional inefficiencies
  • Practical problem-solvers tackling complex organizational challenges

73
Leadership Books: The Exceptional Presenter by Timothy Koegel

The Exceptional Presenter

Timothy Koegel
A Proven Formula to Open Up and Own the Room
4.3 (65 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Exceptional Presenter about?

The Exceptional Presenter (2007) is a guide to mastering the art of public speaking and delivering impactful presentations. It provides practical techniques to improve confidence, engage audiences, and communicate effectively in any setting. By focusing on preparation, delivery, and audience connection, it empowers people to present with clarity and authority.

Who should read The Exceptional Presenter?

  • Ambitious professionals seeking career advancement through communication
  • Nervous speakers looking to overcome presentation anxiety
  • Anyone interested in improving public speaking skills

74
Leadership Books: Compassionate Leadership by Paul Axtell

Compassionate Leadership

Paul Axtell
16 Simple Ways to Engage and Inspire Your Team at Work
4.5 (28 ratings)
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00:00

What's Compassionate Leadership about?

Compassionate Leadership (2021) explores how leaders can cultivate empathy and trust within their teams to create a more engaged and collaborative work environment. It provides practical strategies for improving communication, fostering emotional intelligence, and inspiring individuals to thrive both personally and professionally. Through actionable steps, it encourages leaders to build meaningful connections that enhance team performance and well-being.

Who should read Compassionate Leadership?

  • Aspiring leaders seeking to enhance emotional intelligence
  • Experienced managers aiming to build stronger team trust
  • Anyone interested in cultivating empathy-driven leadership skills

75
Leadership Books: Mistakes I Made at Work by Jessica Bacal

Mistakes I Made at Work

Jessica Bacal
25 Influential Women on Lessons Learned from Mistakes
3.9 (19 ratings)
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00:00

What's Mistakes I Made at Work about?

Mistakes I Made At Work (2014) gathers candid stories from women who turned career stumbles into stepping stones. You’ll hear firsthand how setbacks – from miscalculations in high-pressure roles to moments of self-doubt – became pivotal lessons in leadership and growth. It explores how missteps become tools for building resilience, reshaping priorities, and forging paths that honor ambition without sacrificing authenticity.

Who should read Mistakes I Made at Work?

  • Women reconsidering traditional definitions of career success
  • Professionals navigating male-dominated industries or workplaces
  • Individuals seeking the courage to prioritize authenticity over external validation

76
Leadership Books: Be a People Person by John C. Maxwell

Be a People Person

John C. Maxwell
Effective Leadership Through Effective Relationships
4.2 (25 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Be a People Person about?

Be a People Person (1989) is a guide to bringing out the best in yourself and others. It focuses on several key qualities required for effective leadership, weaving in biblical references and lessons from Scripture. It posits that anyone can learn to become a people person, regardless of background or current position. 

Who should read Be a People Person?

  • Anyone hoping to strengthen their interpersonal skills 
  • Leaders of organizations, communities, or families 
  • Personal development enthusiasts 

77
Leadership Books: Culture Renovation by Kevin Oakes

Culture Renovation

Kevin Oakes
18 Leadership Actions to Build an Unshakeable Company
3.0 (1 ratings)
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00:00

What's Culture Renovation about?

Culture Renovation (2021) explains how business leaders can transform their corporate culture by taking a strategic "renovation" approach rather than attempting a complete overhaul. It presents a data-driven framework for preserving valuable cultural elements while implementing targeted changes.

Who should read Culture Renovation?

  • CEOs and senior executives seeking to modernize their organizations
  • HR leaders and Chief People Officers managing cultural initiatives
  • Change management consultants and organizational development professionals

78
Leadership Books: KIND by Graham Allcott

KIND

Graham Allcott
The Quiet Power of Kindness at Work
4.4 (24 ratings)
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00:00

What's KIND about?

KIND (2024) explores the transformative power of kindness in the workplace, showing how empathy and trust contribute to stronger teams, better decision-making, and higher productivity. It challenges the perception that kindness is a “soft” skill, arguing instead that it is an indispensable leadership quality that fosters creativity, engagement, and long-term success. By blending insights from psychology, neuroscience, and management theory, it provides practical strategies for cultivating a culture of kindness at work. 

Who should read KIND?

  • Leaders and managers who want to build trust and collaboration
  • Professionals seeking to improve workplace culture and relationships
  • Individuals interested in personal growth and emotional intelligence

79
Leadership Books: Essential by Christie Smith, Kelly Monahan

Essential

Christie Smith, Kelly Monahan
How Distributed Teams, Generative AI, and Global Shifts Are Creating a New Human-Powered Leadership
3.3 (4 ratings)
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00:00

What's Essential about?

Essential (2025) provides a blueprint for navigating the intersection of human-centered management and technological disruption in today’s business landscape. It presents strategies for transforming your leadership approach so you can effectively manage distributed teams and harness AI while maintaining the human element that drives organizational success.

Who should read Essential?

  • Leaders managing distributed workforces
  • HR professionals redesigning workplace programs for the remote-first era
  • Startup founders building purpose-driven, flexible organizations

80
Leadership Books: The Model Black by Barbara Banda

The Model Black

Barbara Banda
How Black British Leaders Succeed in Organisations and Why It Matters
4.7 (3 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Model Black about?

The Model Black (2022) explores the experiences of successful black British leaders navigating predominantly white workplaces. It highlights the challenges they face, the strategies they use to succeed, and the systemic barriers that persist. By sharing these insights, it aims to foster more inclusive and equitable organizational cultures.

Who should read The Model Black?

  • Ambitious black professionals striving for career advancement
  • Diversity and inclusion advocates driving systemic change
  • Anyone interested in race, leadership, and workplace equity

81
Leadership Books: Buffett and Munger Unscripted by Warren E. Buffett, Charlie Munger, and Alex Morris

Buffett and Munger Unscripted

Warren E. Buffett, Charlie Munger, and Alex Morris
Insights from Decades of Berkshire Hathaway Shareholder Meetings
4.3 (43 ratings)
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00:00

What's Buffett and Munger Unscripted about?

Buffett and Munger Unscripted (2025) distills three decades of legendary Berkshire Hathaway shareholder meetings into a clear, actionable path to lasting wealth. It demystifies successful investing, breaking it down to fundamental business principles rather than complex strategies. Through their timeless wisdom, you’ll gain the mindset and framework needed to make confident, informed investment decisions.

Who should read Buffett and Munger Unscripted?

  • Ambitious investors looking for a structured approach to business analysis
  • Experienced portfolio managers seeking clarity on long-term value creation
  • Business owners aiming to build sustainable competitive advantages

82
Leadership Books: Trust Yourself by Melody Wilding

Trust Yourself

Melody Wilding
Stop Overthinking and Channel Your Emotions for Success at Work
4.4 (16 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Trust Yourself about?

Trust Yourself (2021) explores the connection between sensitivity and high achievement, offering science-backed strategies to help ambitious professionals manage stress, self-doubt, and anxiety. It provides practical tools for setting boundaries, trusting your intuition, and redefining success on your own terms.

Who should read Trust Yourself?

  • High achievers struggling with self-doubt and overthinking
  • Sensitive professionals seeking confidence and balance
  • Ambitious individuals prone to burnout and perfectionism

83
Leadership Books: Mastering the VC Game by Jeffrey Bussgang

Mastering the VC Game

Jeffrey Bussgang
How to Get from Start-up to IPO on Your Terms
4.2 (11 ratings)
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00:00

What's Mastering the VC Game about?

Mastering the VC Game (2011) gives you an insider’s guide to navigating the high-stakes world of venture capital, from landing funding to building a partnership that works. You’ll learn how to craft a winning pitch, negotiate like a pro, and keep control of your vision while working with investors. Packed with real-world stories and actionable advice, it’s your playbook for turning a startup into a success story.

Who should read Mastering the VC Game?

  • Aspiring entrepreneurs seeking venture capital insights
  • First-time founders navigating startup funding challenges
  • MBA students exploring careers in venture capital

84
Leadership Books: Weekend Language by Andy Craig, Dave Yewman

Weekend Language

Andy Craig, Dave Yewman
Presenting with More Stories and Less PowerPoint
4.3 (32 ratings)
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00:00

What's Weekend Language about?

Weekend Language (2013) is a practical guide to bringing your natural storytelling abilities into corporate presentations. It demonstrates how the conversational style we naturally use on weekends is far more effective than the jargon-filled, slide-heavy approach most professionals adopt during the workweek.

Who should read Weekend Language?

  • Nervous executives preparing important presentations
  • Technical experts translating complex ideas
  • Anyone who wants to sound more authentic

85
Leadership Books: The ROI of Thought Leadership by Cindy Anderson, Anthony Marshall

The ROI of Thought Leadership

Cindy Anderson, Anthony Marshall
Calculating the Value that Sets Organizations Apart
4.3 (4 ratings)
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00:00

What's The ROI of Thought Leadership about?

The ROI of Thought Leadership (2025) is built on a data-driven calculation showing that thought leadership delivers 156 percent ROI and influences $265 billion in global spending annually. It also gives you practical frameworks to quantify, improve, and maximize returns from your organization’s own thought leadership investments.

Who should read The ROI of Thought Leadership?

  • Chief Marketing Officers seeking to justify thought leadership investments
  • Communications executives developing content strategies
  • Business consultants looking to quantify their advisory impact

86
Leadership Books: The Thin Book of Trust by Charles Feltman

The Thin Book of Trust

Charles Feltman
An Essential Primer for Building Trust at Work
5.0 (2 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Thin Book of Trust about?

The Thin Book of Trust (2008) provides a framework for building trust at work. By focusing on four different attributes – care, sincerity, reliability, and competence – you can improve your relationships and create a culture of trust in the workplace.

Who should read The Thin Book of Trust?

  • Leaders who want to improve the culture in their workplace
  • People aiming to create stronger, trust-based working relationships
  • Anyone who wants to understand the nature of trust

87
Leadership Books: Trust and Betrayal in the Workplace by Dennis Reina, Michelle Reina

Trust and Betrayal in the Workplace

Dennis Reina, Michelle Reina
Building Effective Relationships in Your Organization
3.8 (17 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Trust and Betrayal in the Workplace about?

Trust and Betrayal in the Workplace (2007) explores how trust drives high-performing teams, making big goals achievable and workplace transitions smoother. It highlights the small, often unnoticed actions that break trust and offers practical steps to rebuild it. No matter your role, you can strengthen trust, improve collaboration, and create a more supportive, productive work environment.

Who should read Trust and Betrayal in the Workplace?

  • Leaders seeking to build a more trusting workplace culture
  • Employees struggling with broken trust in their teams
  • Professionals navigating workplace change and collaboration challenges

88
Leadership Books: Judgement at Work by Andrew Likierman

Judgement at Work

Andrew Likierman
Making Better Choices
4.3 (20 ratings)
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00:00

What's Judgement at Work about?

Judgement at Work (2025) explores the critical role of sound judgment in decision-making for managers and business leaders. It introduces a six-part framework designed to enhance judgment, helping you make better choices, assess risks, and identify trustworthy people. Drawing on extensive research and expertise, it offers you practical strategies to improve your decision-making and drive success at both personal and organizational levels.

Who should read Judgement at Work?

  • Business and organizational leaders
  • Decision-makers in high-stakes environments
  • Individuals seeking better judgment and critical thinking skills

89
Leadership Books: Trust Factor by Paul Zak

Trust Factor

Paul Zak
The Science of Creating High-Performance Companies
3.5 (2 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Trust Factor about?

Trust Factor (2017) reveals how the neurochemical oxytocin serves as the biological foundation for organizational trust and high performance. It presents the OXYTOCIN framework as a systematic approach for creating workplace environments where trust naturally flourishes, leading to measurably better business outcomes and more fulfilling work experiences.

Who should read Trust Factor?

  • Business leaders and executives seeking science-backed approaches to improve organizational performance
  • Neuroscience enthusiasts interested in practical applications of brain research
  • Anyone in a toxic work environment seeking validation and language to advocate for change

90
Leadership Books: What You're Made For by George Raveling, Ryan Holiday

What You're Made For

George Raveling, Ryan Holiday
Powerful Life Lessons from My Career in Sports
4.5 (24 ratings)
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00:00

What's What You're Made For about?

What You’re Made For? (2025) explores the life lessons of sports legend George Raveling – and his remarkable journey from hardship to influence. It offers a blueprint for discovering purpose, evolving continuously, and living an impactful life. 

Who should read What You're Made For?

  • Sports enthusiasts interested in the behind-the-scenes wisdom of basketball legends
  • Aspiring coaches and leaders seeking to develop leadership skills
  • Anyone seeking inspiration to persevere through adversity

91
Leadership Books: Career Rehab by Kanika Tolver

Career Rehab

Kanika Tolver
Rebuild Your Personal Brand and Rethink the Way You Work
4.3 (13 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Career Rehab about?

Career Rehab (2020) provides a practical roadmap for transforming unfulfilling jobs into dream careers through personal branding and strategic career planning. Guiding job-seekers through the four phases of career rehab – designing, building, testing, and launching – it offers a step-by-step guide to creating a dream career.

Who should read Career Rehab?

  • Mid-career professionals feeling stuck
  • Recent graduates in unfulfilling first jobs
  • Corporate employees dreaming of entrepreneurship

92
Leadership Books: Pivot to the Future by Omar Abbosh, Paul Nunes, Larry Downes

Pivot to the Future

Omar Abbosh, Paul Nunes, Larry Downes
Discovering Value and Creating Growth in a Disrupted World
4.5 (11 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Pivot to the Future about?

Pivot to the Future (2019) explores how companies can achieve sustainable growth by reinventing their existing businesses while embracing new technologies. It introduces the concept of “wise pivots,” strategic shifts that help organizations balance legacy operations with future innovation. Through real-world examples, it demonstrates how businesses can unlock hidden value and stay competitive in an era of constant disruption.

Who should read Pivot to the Future?

  • Forward-thinking business executives seeking sustainable growth strategies
  • Innovation-driven entrepreneurs navigating digital transformation challenges
  • Curious professionals interested in business innovation and adaptation

93
Leadership Books: Lead Well by Paula Davis

Lead Well

Paula Davis
5 Mindsets to Engage, Retain, and Inspire Your Team
4.3 (3 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Lead Well about?

Lead Well (2025) addresses the crisis of employee disengagement and burnout in our post-pandemic, AI-disrupted workplace by offering a research-backed leadership framework that transforms traditional management approaches. It introduces five transformative mindsets to help leaders build team cohesion, foster values alignment, manage workloads sustainably, and cultivate systemic resilience in the face of relentless change.

Who should read Lead Well?

  • C-Suite execs adapting to the post-pandemic work landscape
  • Managers looking for practical tools to prevent team burnout
  • Founders who need to balance rapid growth with a sustainable culture 

94
Leadership Books: Virtual Leadership by Penny Pullan

Virtual Leadership

Penny Pullan
Strategies for Getting the Best Out of Virtual Work and Teams
3.8 (4 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Virtual Leadership about?

Virtual Leadership (2016) reveals how effective remote leadership depends on trust, clarity, and connection – and offers straightforward techniques for boosting productivity and engagement across dispersed teams. You’ll see how thoughtful meeting structures, clear communication, and cultural awareness can unlock your team’s full potential, no matter where they work.

Who should read Virtual Leadership?

  • Managers leading geographically dispersed teams
  • Remote professionals wanting better collaboration skills
  • Executives transitioning to hybrid or virtual workplaces

95
Leadership Books: Shift by Ethan Kross

Shift

Ethan Kross
Managing Your Emotions - So They Don't Manage You
4.3 (19 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Shift about?

Shift (2025) is a comprehensive science-based guide to managing – and maybe even mastering – your emotional life. It outlines what emotions are, why they matter, and how they can be tangibly harnessed to help, not hinder, you in pursuit of a life well lived. 

Who should read Shift?

  • Anyone wanting to better manage their emotions  
  • Parents and professionals navigating today’s complex stresses and stressors 
  • Leaders and educators committed to modelling best practice 

96
Leadership Books: Masters of Uncertainty by Rich Diviney

Masters of Uncertainty

Rich Diviney
The Navy SEAL Way to Turn Stress into Success for You and Your Team
4.3 (6 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Masters of Uncertainty about?

Masters of Uncertainty (2025) provides a method for training individuals and teams to perform at their peak, no matter the circumstances. It shows you how to turn uncertainty and chaos into opportunities, stay calm under pressure, and leverage innate human capabilities to excel in challenging situations. By mastering this approach, you can improve your performance, whether you work alone or as part of a team.

Who should read Masters of Uncertainty?

  • Professionals facing high-pressure situations
  • Leaders building resilient and adaptable teams
  • Individuals seeking personal growth and adaptability

97
Leadership Books: Next Move, Best Move by Kimberly Brown

Next Move, Best Move

Kimberly Brown
Transitioning Into a Career You'll Love
4.0 (1 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Next Move, Best Move about?

Next Move, Best Move (2021) is a practical guide for professionals who want to carve out a rich and rewarding career – not just a string of jobs. It emphasizes understanding your past and present to inform your future, navigating transitions strategically and intentionally, and playing the long game for lasting success.  

Who should read Next Move, Best Move?

  • Recent graduates exploring workplace opportunities
  • Mid-career professionals seeking career advancement or transition
  • Anyone wanting to build a stronger professional brand

98
Leadership Books: Gravitas by Caroline Goyder

Gravitas

Caroline Goyder
Communicate with Confidence, Influence and Authority
4.1 (7 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Gravitas about?

Gravitas (2014) is your guide to becoming a powerful speaker. It provides a formula for gravitas through seven practical principles that balance knowledge, purpose, and passion. Its techniques can be applied to presentations, meetings, interviews, and virtually any situation where you need others to truly listen to what you have to say.

Who should read Gravitas?

  • Professionals seeking to enhance their communication skills
  • Public speakers and presenters hoping to refine their delivery
  • Anyone looking to speak with confidence and impact

99
Leadership Books: Trust Works! by Ken Blanchard, Cynthia Olmstead, Martha Lawrence

Trust Works!

Ken Blanchard, Cynthia Olmstead, Martha Lawrence
Four Keys to Building Lasting Relationships
4.0 (2 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Trust Works! about?

Trust Works! (2013) explores how trust shapes relationships and drives successful teams and organizations. It outlines the simple yet powerful ABCD – able, believable, connected, and dependable – trust model, which you can use to cultivate, maintain, and restore trust. 

Who should read Trust Works!?

  • Leaders and managers responsible for teams 
  • Individuals in charge of building positive company or group culture 
  • Anyone wanting to improve a specific relationship 

100
Leadership Books: Managing Up by Melody Wilding

Managing Up

Melody Wilding
How to Get What You Need from the People in Charge
4.3 (3 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Managing Up about?

Managing Up (2025) offers practical strategies for managing workplace power dynamics and strengthening relationships with leaders. It will provide you with the tools to gain influence, advocate for your needs, and increase your authority without changing job titles. By distilling key workplace challenges into ten essential conversations, it helps you to communicate with confidence, set boundaries, and position yourself for success.

Who should read Managing Up?

  • Career-driven professionals aiming for stability and growth
  • Managers and leaders improving team communication and decision-making
  • Job seekers and career changers planning their next move

Related Topics

Leadership Books
 FAQs 

What's the best Leadership book to read?

While choosing just one book about a topic is always tough, many people regard The Five Dysfunctions of a Team as the ultimate read on Leadership.

What are the Top 10 Leadership books?

Blinkist curators have picked the following:
  • The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick M. Lencioni
  • Focus by Daniel Goleman
  • Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek
  • Creativity, Inc. by Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
  • The Prince by Niccolò Machiavelli
  • 5 Levels of Leadership by John C. Maxwell
  • Walmart by Natalie Berg and Bryan Roberts
  • The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership by Jim Dethmer, Diana Chapman and Kaley Warner Klemp
  • Failing Forward by John C. Maxwell
  • Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin

Who are the top Leadership book authors?

When it comes to Leadership, these are the authors who stand out as some of the most influential:
  • Patrick M. Lencioni
  • Daniel Goleman
  • Simon Sinek
  • Ed Catmull with Amy Wallace
  • Niccolò Machiavelli