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 (960 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 (730 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 (827 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 (337 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 (485 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: The Speed of Trust by Stephen M.R. Covey with Rebecca R. Merrill

The Speed of Trust

Stephen M.R. Covey with Rebecca R. Merrill
The One Thing That Changes Everything
4.1 (305 ratings)
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What's The Speed of Trust about?

The Speed of Trust (2006) is about the importance of trust and how it can improve all aspects of our lives, from personal relationships to productivity in the office. Trust improves communication, and in doing so, speeds up efficiency and lowers cost at the same time. Throughout this book, the authors offer us tips on exactly what to do to increase trust in our lives.

Who should read The Speed of Trust?

  • Anyone struggling to trust others
  • Leaders who need to influence their staff
  • People who want to make others trust them

7
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 (277 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

8
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
4.5 (78 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

9
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
4.4 (143 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

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 (755 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 (352 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 (116 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 (688 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: Be Obsessed or Be Average by Grant Cardone

Be Obsessed or Be Average

Grant Cardone
4.3 (188 ratings)
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What's Be Obsessed or Be Average about?

Be Obsessed or Be Average (2016) is a guide to living life to its fullest. Cardone offers his unique take on becoming a driven and passionate business leader with the hunger it takes to rank among the best in the world.

Who should read Be Obsessed or Be Average?

  • Entrepreneurs and business leaders
  • Dreamers with ambitious ideas
  • Anyone who wants to make the most of life

15
Leadership Books: Adaptability by Max McKeown

Adaptability

Max McKeown
The Art of Winning in an Age of Uncertainty
4.3 (120 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

16
Leadership Books: The 5 AM Club by Robin Sharma

The 5 AM Club

Robin Sharma
Own Your Morning. Elevate Your Life.
4.5 (11,172 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

17
Leadership Books: The Infinite Game by Simon Sinek

The Infinite Game

Simon Sinek
4.6 (765 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

18
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 (1,156 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

19
Leadership Books: Elevate by Joseph Deitch

Elevate

Joseph Deitch
An Essential Guide to Life
4.1 (446 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

20
Leadership Books: Leadership Strategy and Tactics by Jocko Willink

Leadership Strategy and Tactics

Jocko Willink
Field Manual
4.5 (482 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

21
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 (325 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

22
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 (246 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

23
Leadership Books: Mastering Leadership by Robert J. Anderson and William A. Adams

Mastering Leadership

Robert J. Anderson and William A. Adams
An Integrated Framework for Breakthrough Performance and Extraordinary Business Results
4.3 (136 ratings)
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What's Mastering Leadership about?

Mastering Leadership (2015) explores the link between personal development and great leadership. It reveals the mindset needed to lead effectively, and explores how insights from classical mythology can help managers find their inner heroic leader. 

Who should read Mastering Leadership?

  • Middle managers aspiring to join the C-suite
  • Leaders looking for fresh insights
  • Business owners seeking a new perspective

24
Leadership Books: Who Not How by Dan Sullivan with Benjamin Hardy

Who Not How

Dan Sullivan with Benjamin Hardy
The Formula to Achieve Bigger Goals Through Accelerating Teamwork
4.5 (579 ratings)
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What's Who Not How about?

Who Not How (2020) introduces a new way of thinking about entrepreneurship, goal setting, and collaboration. Developed by business coach Dan Sullivan, the Who Not How mindset shows the importance of delegating tasks to others. By inviting them to help you achieve your goals, you’ll gain more free time, increase your income, and develop valuable, lasting professional relationships.

Who should read Who Not How?

  • Aspiring entrepreneurs looking to realize a business idea
  • Burned-out professionals with a desire for more free time
  • Perfectionists on the hunt for procrastination cures

25
Leadership Books: Dare to Lead by Brené Brown

Dare to Lead

Brené Brown
Brave work. Tough conversations. Whole hearts.
4.3 (845 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

26
Leadership Books: Start With Why by Simon Sinek

Start With Why

Simon Sinek
How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action
4.6 (1,407 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

27
Leadership Books: Radical Candor by Kim Scott

Radical Candor

Kim Scott
Be a Kickass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity
4.6 (711 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

28
Leadership Books: Leadership by Henry Kissinger

Leadership

Henry Kissinger
Six Studies in World Strategy
4.3 (417 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

29
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 (690 ratings)
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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

30
Leadership Books: The Art of War (new version) by Sun Tzu

The Art of War (new version)

Sun Tzu
4.0 (1,607 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

31
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 (616 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

32
Leadership Books: The First 90 Days by Michael D. Watkins

The First 90 Days

Michael D. Watkins
Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter
2.9 (564 ratings)
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What's The First 90 Days about?

The First 90 Days (2006) maps out the critical transition period for any business leader taking on a new role. It offers comprehensive and practical strategies for surviving – and thriving – past the first three months.

Who should read The First 90 Days?

  • Business leaders tackling a new role
  • Aspiring leaders preparing for their next move
  • Anyone looking to reduce their vulnerabilities as a leader

33
Leadership Books: Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell

Buy Back Your Time

Dan Martell
Get Unstuck, Reclaim Your Freedom, and Build Your Empire
4.5 (332 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

34
Leadership Books: Lord of the Flies by William Golding

Lord of the Flies

William Golding
4.6 (237 ratings)
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What's Lord of the Flies about?

Lord of the Flies (1954) is the allegorical story of a group of young boys stranded on a deserted island and left to fend for themselves and create a society. As the boys struggle with the complexities of leadership, cooperation, and survival, they are forced to face some fundamental questions about human nature and the fragility of civilization.

Who should read Lord of the Flies?

  • Readers looking for fresh eyes on an old classic
  • Literature lovers who somehow never got around to this important book
  • Anyone looking for insight into the nature of society and the humans who build it

35
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 (593 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

36
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 (612 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

37
Leadership Books: The Diary of a CEO by Steven Bartlett

The Diary of a CEO

Steven Bartlett
The 33 Laws of Business and Life
4.3 (684 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Diary of a CEO about?

The Diary of a CEO (2023) offers a compelling insight into the world of entrepreneurship and personal development. It’s a comprehensive guide that combines reflections, lessons learned, and practical advice. This aims to inspire and guide you in understanding business dynamics, personal development, and the intricacies of becoming an effective leader.

Who should read The Diary of a CEO?

  • Aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders looking to start or grow a business
  • Professionals and students focused on personal and professional development
  • Anyone searching for mindset shifts and psychological tools to maximize their potential

38
Leadership Books: The Art of Persuasion by Bob Burg

The Art of Persuasion

Bob Burg
Winning Without Intimidation
3.9 (31 ratings)
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00:00

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

39
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 (69 ratings)
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00:00

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

40
Leadership Books: Management 3.0 by Jurgen Appelo

Management 3.0

Jurgen Appelo
Leading Agile Developers, Developing Agile Leaders
3.8 (4 ratings)
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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

41
Leadership Books: The Six Disciplines of Strategic Thinking by Michael D. Watkins

The Six Disciplines of Strategic Thinking

Michael D. Watkins
Leading Your Organization Into the Future
4.1 (283 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Six Disciplines of Strategic Thinking about?

The Six Disciplines of Strategic Thinking (2024) is a comprehensive guide designed to enhance your leadership skills by focusing on strategic thinking. It identifies six key components of strategic thought: mental agility, pattern recognition, political savvy, problem-solving, systems analysis, and visioning, each essential for recognizing threats and opportunities, establishing priorities, and driving organizational success. Offering a blend of academic insights and practical tools, it aims to develop and nurture your strategic thinking, making it an invaluable resource.

Who should read The Six Disciplines of Strategic Thinking?

  • Aspiring business leaders seeking strategic skills
  • Executives facing complex organizational challenges
  • Professionals interested in leadership and organizational change

42
Leadership Books: Simple Truths of Leadership Playbook by Ken Blanchard & Randy Conley

Simple Truths of Leadership Playbook

Ken Blanchard & Randy Conley
A 52-Week Game Plan for Becoming a Trusted Servant Leader
3.7 (46 ratings)
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00:00

What's Simple Truths of Leadership Playbook about?

Simple Truths of Leadership Playbook (2023) highlights how adopting servant leadership, a balanced approach focusing on serving others and achieving outcomes, can cultivate strong relationships and superior results in the workplace.

Who should read Simple Truths of Leadership Playbook?

  • Aspiring servant leaders
  • Corporate managers
  • Team-building professionals

43
Leadership Books: Conversational Intelligence by Judith E. Glaser

Conversational Intelligence

Judith E. Glaser
How Great Leaders Build Trust and Get Extraordinary Results
4.7 (3 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

44
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 (152 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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

45
Leadership Books: The Arthashastra by Kauṭalya

The Arthashastra

Kauṭalya
A Pragmatic Guide to Building Strong and Prosperous States
3.9 (29 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Arthashastra about?

The Arthashastra (3rd century BCE ) is a foundational Sanskrit text on statecraft and political strategy. It emphasizes a pragmatic approach to decision-making, stability, and various methods leaders can employ to maintain power, prosperity within their states, and a robust foreign policy.

Who should read The Arthashastra?

  • Aspiring leaders seeking governance strategies
  • Students of political science and history
  • Business professionals interested in strategic management

46
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 (182 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

47
Leadership Books: Good Judgment by Richard Davis

Good Judgment

Richard Davis
Better Business Decisions with Human Personality Science
4.3 (48 ratings)
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00:00

What's Good Judgment about?

Good Judgment (2024) explores the science of personality within the context of organizational psychology to enhance decision-making in business environments. It offers strategies for accurately reading and understanding people, which helps companies hire suitable employees, improve workplace relationships, and resolve conflicts effectively.

Who should read Good Judgment?

  • Business leaders seeking to enhance decision-making skills
  • HR professionals focused on improving recruitment and team dynamics
  • Anyone interested in leadership

48
Leadership Books: The Energy of Belonging by Wendy Gates Corbett

The Energy of Belonging

Wendy Gates Corbett
75 Ideas to Spark Workplace Community
4.3 (136 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Energy of Belonging about?

The Energy of Belonging (2024) is an action-oriented guide for everyone who wants to help create a sense of connection, respect, and safety in the workplace, and how this can transform organizations. It focuses on practical strategies for employees at all levels to foster a culture of belonging, to boost productivity, creativity, and overall success. 

Who should read The Energy of Belonging?

  • Employees at all levels who want to contribute to a more positive work environment
  • Diversity and inclusion specialists or enthusiasts interested in fostering belonging
  • Anyone looking to integrate better into their teams, or promote success and wellbeing for everyone

49
Leadership Books: The First Minute by Chris Fenning

The First Minute

Chris Fenning
How to Start Conversations that Get Results
4.1 (487 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

50
Leadership Books: Leadership Strategy by Powerful Business Solutions

Leadership Strategy

Powerful Business Solutions
The Art & Science of Decision-Making
4.1 (36 ratings)
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00:00

What's Leadership Strategy about?

Leadership Strategy (2023) explores the mindsets and strategies of today’s boldest innovators, teaching you how to challenge assumptions and unlock creative breakthroughs. It offers actionable advice and real-world leadership examples to help you think exponentially, foster an entrepreneurial culture, and turn your transformational ideas into revolutionary realities.

Who should read Leadership Strategy?

  • Aspiring business leaders seeking visionary leadership strategies
  • Entrepreneurs aiming to innovate and disrupt their industries
  • Business professionals striving for transformative organizational change

51
Leadership Books: No Ego by Cy Wakeman

No Ego

Cy Wakeman
Stop Drama, Eliminate Entitlement, Maximize Results
4.2 (210 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

52
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
4.2 (238 ratings)
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00:00

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

53
Leadership Books: The Art of Encouragement by Jordan Montgomery

The Art of Encouragement

Jordan Montgomery
How to Lead Teams, Spread Love, and Serve from the Heart
4.5 (42 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Art of Encouragement about?

The Art of Encouragement (2024) is a practical guide that empowers readers to enhance wellbeing and productivity through the power of encouragement. It offers actionable strategies for leaders to develop their teams, maximize impact, and create positive change within their organizations and communities. With compelling narratives and straightforward lessons, it serves as an essential resource for anyone looking to uplift and inspire those around them.

Who should read The Art of Encouragement?

  • Managers looking to improve team dynamics and drive productivity
  • Coaches and consultants who guide others in personal and professional development
  • Mentors interested in enhancing their leadership skills

54
Leadership Books: Principles by Ray Dalio

Principles

Ray Dalio
Life and Work
3.8 (76 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

55
Leadership Books: Ambition by Gilbert Brim

Ambition

Gilbert Brim
How We Manage Success and Failure Throughout Our Lives
4.0 (20 ratings)
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00:00

What's Ambition about?

Ambition (1992) explores the psychology of striving, drawing on both research and real-life examples. It reveals how we constantly adjust our expectations after achieving success, quickly moving on to new goals without lingering on our accomplishments.

Who should read Ambition?

  • Personal and professional growth seekers
  • People struggling to balance their goals and fulfillment
  • Curious minds interested in motivational psychology

56
Leadership Books: At War with Ourselves by H. R. McMaster

At War with Ourselves

H. R. McMaster
My Tour of Duty in the Trump White House
3.9 (115 ratings)
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00:00

What's At War with Ourselves about?

At War with Ourselves (2024) takes you on a behind-the-scenes tour of the Trump White House. You’ll discover how chaos and power struggles shaped H. R. McMaster’s one-year tenure as national security advisor, and how he tried to advance the nation’s long-term strategic interests.

Who should read At War with Ourselves?

  • Americans interested in what happened during the Trump administration 
  • Politics junkies interested in U.S. governance
  • Students of public policy, history, or international relations

57
Leadership Books: How to Lead When You're Not in Charge by Clay Scroggins

How to Lead When You're Not in Charge

Clay Scroggins
Leveraging Influence When You Lack Authority
4.3 (36 ratings)
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00:00

What's How to Lead When You're Not in Charge about?

How to Lead When You’re Not in Charge (2017) explores how individuals can exercise leadership and influence, even when they lack formal authority. It emphasizes that true leadership is more about mindset, personal responsibility, and relational influence than having a title or position. With practical advice, it empowers people to make a meaningful impact from any position in an organization.

Who should read How to Lead When You're Not in Charge?

  • Aspiring leaders without formal authority or titles
  • Middle managers seeking greater influence in organizations
  • Anyone looking to grow personal leadership skills and responsibility

58
Leadership Books: Speak Like a CEO by Suzanne Bates

Speak Like a CEO

Suzanne Bates
Secrets for Commanding Attention and Getting Results
4.3 (222 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

59
Leadership Books: Beyond the Hammer by Brian Gottlieb

Beyond the Hammer

Brian Gottlieb
A Fresh Take on Leadership and Building High-Performing Teams
4.5 (2 ratings)
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00:00

What's Beyond the Hammer about?

Beyond the Hammer (2024) addresses common business challenges like employee burnout, high turnover, and departmental friction. It offers practical strategies based on five foundational pillars of leadership to help managers build high-performing, aligned teams.

Who should read Beyond the Hammer?

  • Aspiring leaders wanting to develop strong leadership foundations
  • Managers struggling with team alignment and accountability
  • Business professionals aiming to foster a growth-driven culture

60
Leadership Books: Purpose Mindset by Akhtar Badshah

Purpose Mindset

Akhtar Badshah
How Microsoft Inspires Employees and Alumni to Change the World
3.8 (80 ratings)
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00:00

What's Purpose Mindset about?

Purpose Mindset (2020) dives into how embedding a sense of purpose within organizations can lead to greater individual and collective success. It outlines how Microsoft developed a culture of giving and volunteerism, which enhanced employee satisfaction while helping the company attract and retain top talent. It also illustrates how a strong sense of purpose can drive both individual fulfillment and broader social change. 

Who should read Purpose Mindset?

  • Individuals seeking to align career with social impact and purpose
  • Leaders aiming to foster a purpose-driven culture in organizations
  • Professionals interested in using talents for societal and community change

61
Leadership Books: IRREPLACEABLE by Pascal Bornet

IRREPLACEABLE

Pascal Bornet
The Art of Standing Out in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
4.1 (59 ratings)
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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.

62
Leadership Books: High Growth Handbook by Elad Gil

High Growth Handbook

Elad Gil
Scaling Startups from 10 to 10,000 People
4.3 (9 ratings)
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00:00

What's High Growth Handbook about?

High Growth Handbook (2018) reveals how to confidently lead through high-growth periods by shifting your focus from everyday tasks to big-picture strategy. You’ll learn to empower your team and make effective decisions that guide the organization forward. This guide helps you refine your leadership style and adapt as your company grows, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

Who should read High Growth Handbook?

  • CEOs seeking to enhance their leadership skills
  • Entrepreneurs interested in rapid business growth
  • Board members aiming for effective company governance

63
Leadership Books: Hope Is Not a Strategy by Rick Page

Hope Is Not a Strategy

Rick Page
The 6 Keys to Winning the Complex Sale
4.4 (78 ratings)
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00:00

What's Hope Is Not a Strategy about?

Hope Is Not a Strategy (2003) offers a strategic framework for handling complex sales, emphasizing that success depends on more than just closing skills. It outlines a six-step process for identifying prospects’ needs, qualifying opportunities, and building competitive advantages, all aimed at increasing sales effectiveness.

Who should read Hope Is Not a Strategy?

  • Sales professionals managing complex, high-stakes deals with multiple stakeholders
  • Account managers seeking to build long-term client relationships
  • Business leaders aiming to improve their team’s sales strategy

64
Leadership Books: The Oz Principle by Roger Connors, Tom Smith, Craig Hickman

The Oz Principle

Roger Connors, Tom Smith, Craig Hickman
Getting Results Through Individual and Organizational Accountability
4.2 (23 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Oz Principle about?

The Oz Principle (1994) explores the concept of accountability as the key to both individual and organizational success. It encourages you to stop blaming external circumstances and take responsibility for your actions by adopting an “Above the Line” mindset, focused on ownership and solutions. Through examples and strategies, it shows how accountability can lead to better results and foster a culture of personal and professional growth.

Who should read The Oz Principle?

  • Business leaders seeking to improve organizational accountability
  • Employees aiming to take ownership of results
  • Entrepreneurs striving for personal and team accountability

65
Leadership Books: Nobody Is Coming to Save You by Scott Mann

Nobody Is Coming to Save You

Scott Mann
A Green Beret's Guide to Getting Big Sh*t Done
3.9 (30 ratings)
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00:00

What's Nobody Is Coming to Save You about?

Nobody Is Coming to Save You (2024) reveals how to conquer high-stakes challenges by building trust and connections. Drawing from his experience in the most intense environments, Scott Mann shows you how to motivate others and bridge divides – whether at work, in your community, or in your personal life. This is your guide to cutting through the chaos and leading with purpose.

Who should read Nobody Is Coming to Save You?

  • Professionals looking to enhance their leadership and communication skills
  • Veterans navigating post-service transitions and leadership challenges
  • Community organizers looking to foster deeper, authentic connections

66
Leadership Books: The Score Takes Care of Itself by Bill Walsh, Steve Jamison, Craig Walsh

The Score Takes Care of Itself

Bill Walsh, Steve Jamison, Craig Walsh
My Philosophy of Leadership
4.0 (12 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Score Takes Care of Itself about?

The Score Takes Care of Itself (2009) outlines a philosophy of leadership based on focusing on process, preparation, and discipline rather than the outcome. It shares principles for achieving excellence by maintaining high standards, building a strong culture, and handling adversity. It suggests that, if you focus on consistent performance and execution, success will naturally follow.

Who should read The Score Takes Care of Itself?

  • Aspiring and current business leaders seeking leadership insights
  • Coaches and sports professionals aiming for team success
  • Anyone interested in personal growth and discipline

67
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 (182 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

68
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 (191 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

69
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 (163 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

70
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
4.0 (24 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

71
Leadership Books: Pivot or Die by Gary Shapiro

Pivot or Die

Gary Shapiro
How Leaders Thrive When Everything Changes
4.2 (19 ratings)
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00:00

What's Pivot or Die about?

Pivot or Die (2024) offers a framework for leaders to navigate rapid changes and challenges in the technology and business world. It explains how embracing different types of pivots – whether in response to failure, success, or unforeseen circumstances – can help organizations stay agile and competitive. Through case studies and lessons, it highlights the critical role of adaptability in achieving long-term success.

Who should read Pivot or Die?

  • Technology entrepreneurs looking to withstand industry disruptions
  • Startup founders seeking strategies for growth and pivoting
  • Professionals involved in change management or strategic planning

72
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
4.2 (34 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

73
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 (153 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

74
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 (111 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

75
Leadership Books: Say What They Can't Unhear by Tamsen Webster

Say What They Can't Unhear

Tamsen Webster
The 9 Principles of Lasting Change
4.0 (7 ratings)
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00:00

What's Say What They Can't Unhear about?

Say What They Can’t Unhear (2024) provides a fresh approach to driving lasting change by leveraging ethical persuasion and behavioral insights. It explores nine “persuasion principles” that help transform passive agreement into passionate buy-in, inspiring long-term shifts in thinking and behavior.

Who should read Say What They Can't Unhear?

  • Business leaders seeking to inspire lasting organizational change
  • Managers aiming to guide teams through transitions
  • Entrepreneurs needing strategies to influence customer behavior

76
Leadership Books: Team by David Allen, Edward Lamont

Team

David Allen, Edward Lamont
Getting Things Done with Others
4.2 (17 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Team about?

Team (2024) reveals how to elevate group productivity, streamline collaboration, and reduce stress for everyone involved. Packed with real-world insights from top-performing companies, it equips you with the tools to build a focused, cohesive, and high-performing team. Perfect for today’s evolving workplace, it’s your essential guide to achieving more together.

Who should read Team?

  • Teams seeking better collaboration and productivity gains
  • Managers looking to reduce workplace stress and improve efficiency
  • Professionals interested in effective, actionable organizational strategies

77
Leadership Books: The Life Cycle of a CEO by Claudius A Hildebrand, Robert J Stark

The Life Cycle of a CEO

Claudius A Hildebrand, Robert J Stark
The Myths and Truths of How Leaders Succeed
4.3 (29 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Life Cycle of a CEO about?

The Life Cycle of a CEO (2024) shatters the myth of the natural-born corporate leader by revealing the five distinct phases every CEO must master. Through unprecedented research spanning thousands of executives, you’ll discover how successful leaders navigate each critical stage – from launch through legacy – and develop the specific skills needed at each step. You’ll learn exactly what it takes to transform from a capable leader into an exceptional CEO who drives lasting success.

Who should read The Life Cycle of a CEO?

  • Ambitious executives seeking insights for their leadership journey
  • Mid-career professionals planning their path to senior management
  • Business students and academics studying corporate leadership patterns

78
Leadership Books: The Employee Advantage by Stephan Meier

The Employee Advantage

Stephan Meier
How Putting Workers First Helps Businesses Thrive
3.9 (17 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Employee Advantage about?

The Employee Advantage (2024) argues that prioritizing employees can drive business success by encouraging innovation, improving profitability, and attracting top talent. It highlights how organizations can benefit from focusing on employee well-being, showcasing examples of companies that have thrived by adopting an employee-centric approach. It also provides actionable strategies for leaders to create workplaces where employees feel valued and motivated.

Who should read The Employee Advantage?

  • Business leaders seeking innovative employee engagement strategies
  • Entrepreneurs building people-focused, sustainable organizations
  • Students of business or organizational psychology

79
Leadership Books: Fix It by Roger Connors, Tom Smith

Fix It

Roger Connors, Tom Smith
Getting Accountability Right
4.2 (6 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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

80
Leadership Books: The Power of Culture by Laura Hamill

The Power of Culture

Laura Hamill
Bringing Values to Life at Work
3.7 (35 ratings)
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00:00

What's The Power of Culture about?

The Power of Culture (2024) explores how a well-crafted culture can transform an organization, boosting employee engagement, performance, and well-being. By examining how values, behaviors, and leadership shape the work environment, it emphasizes the importance of creating a culture that encourages people and places to thrive. 

Who should read The Power of Culture?

  • HR professionals focused on workplace culture 
  • Business leaders wanting to boost employee engagement and performance 
  • Anyone interested in organizational psychology 

81
Leadership Books: Unlock Your Leadership Story by Pat Wadors

Unlock Your Leadership Story

Pat Wadors
How to Build Understanding and Motivate Teams Using Fables and Folktales
3.9 (7 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Unlock Your Leadership Story about?

Unlock Your Leadership Story (2024) explores how fables and folktales can offer valuable insights into modern leadership challenges. By encouraging leaders to reflect on their unique experiences, values, and struggles, it demonstrates how authentic storytelling can build trust, deepen connections, and amplify influence. Through actionable strategies and techniques, you’ll be able to transform your own personal narratives into powerful tools for inspiration, motivation, and lasting growth.

Who should read Unlock Your Leadership Story?

  • Human resources professionals developing workplace talent
  • Project and team leaders managing groups of people
  • Sales managers helping their teams reach peak performance

82
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
3.6 (14 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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 

83
Leadership Books: Radical Inclusion by David Moinina Sengeh

Radical Inclusion

David Moinina Sengeh
Seven Steps to Help You Create a More Just Workplace, Home, and World
3.7 (29 ratings)
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00:00

What's Radical Inclusion about?

Radical Inclusion (2024) tells the compelling story of a fight to guarantee the right of pregnant girls in Sierra Leone to attend school. It explores how exclusionary systems can be transformed and offers practical strategies for creating more inclusive and equitable communities. Through personal stories and global experiences, it will provide you with a blueprint for fostering a world where everyone truly belongs.

Who should read Radical Inclusion?

  • Community leaders advocating for social change  
  • Educators seeking inclusive teaching strategies 
  • Policymakers addressing systemic inequality and exclusion

84
Leadership Books: This Is Strategy by Seth Godin

This Is Strategy

Seth Godin
Make Better Plans
4.0 (68 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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

85
Leadership Books: Job Moves by Ethan Bernstein, Michael B Horn, Bob Moesta

Job Moves

Ethan Bernstein, Michael B Horn, Bob Moesta
9 Steps for Making Progress in Your Career
4.1 (29 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Job Moves about?

Job Moves (2024) redefines how you approach job changes by putting you in control of your career path. Using a proven nine-step framework, it helps you uncover what truly drives your decisions, test opportunities before committing, and craft a career that aligns with your goals. It’s your guide to making career moves that lead to lasting fulfillment.

Who should read Job Moves?

  • Career changers seeking actionable steps for smarter job decisions
  • Professionals aiming to align work with personal growth and priorities
  • Managers interested in understanding employee motivations and career progress patterns

86
Leadership Books: Bigger Than You by Kelly Roach

Bigger Than You

Kelly Roach
The Entrepreneur's Guild to Building an Unstoppable Team
4.0 (27 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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

87
Leadership Books: Control the Narrative by Lida Citroën

Control the Narrative

Lida Citroën
The Executive's Guide to Building, Pivoting and Repairing Your Reputation
3.8 (4 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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

88
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
3.5 (6 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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

89
Leadership Books: Never Lead Alone by Keith Ferrazzi

Never Lead Alone

Keith Ferrazzi
10 Shifts from Leadership to Teamship
5.0 (3 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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

90
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
3.3 (16 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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

91
Leadership Books: From Conflict to Courage by Marlene Chism

From Conflict to Courage

Marlene Chism
How to Stop Avoiding and Start Leading
3.7 (7 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's From Conflict to Courage about?

From Conflict to Courage (2022) presents a comprehensive approach for transforming workplace disagreements into opportunities for growth and development. It introduces a three-part framework centered on developing “conflict capacity”, helping leaders move beyond common patterns of aggression, avoidance, and appeasing.

Who should read From Conflict to Courage?

  • New managers struggling to handle their first leadership conflicts
  • Experienced executives dealing with persistent interpersonal issues
  • Anyone seeking to build stronger conflict resolution skills

92
Leadership Books: Rethinking Two Weeks' Notice by Robert Glazer

Rethinking Two Weeks' Notice

Robert Glazer
Changing the Way Employees Leave Companies for the Better
4.5 (2 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's Rethinking Two Weeks' Notice about?

Rethinking Two Weeks' Notice (2024) takes a critical look at our outdated employee departure model, proposing a new framework, the Open Transition Program, built on transparency and mutual respect. Through practical strategies, it shows how you can create an environment where career transitions strengthen rather than damage workplace relationships.

Who should read Rethinking Two Weeks' Notice?

  • Managers seeking better ways to handle employee departures
  • HR professionals focused on improving company culture and retention
  • Business leaders wanting to reduce costs of sudden transitions

93
Leadership Books: The Secret of Culture Change by Manoel Amorim, Jay B. Barney, Carlos Júlio

The Secret of Culture Change

Manoel Amorim, Jay B. Barney, Carlos Júlio
How to Build Authentic Stories That Transform Your Organization
4.7 (3 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's The Secret of Culture Change about?

The Secret of Culture Change (2023) explores how compelling stories can transform organizations’ cultures and boost competitive performance. Packed with actionable case studies and examples, it shows you how to harness the power of storytelling to lead with greater authenticity and dynamism.

Who should read The Secret of Culture Change?

  • Business leaders seeking to transform company culture
  • Managers interested in honing new tools
  • Entrepreneurs aiming for alignment between culture and strategy

94
Leadership Books: A Passion for Leadership by Robert M. Gates

A Passion for Leadership

Robert M. Gates
Lessons on Change and Reform from Fifty Years of Public Service
5.0 (1 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
00:00

What's A Passion for Leadership about?

A Passion for Leadership (2016) offers leadership strategies based on the challenges of driving change within large organizations. It draws from a range of experiences in managing complex bureaucracies, emphasizing approaches for making them more agile and accountable and providing practical insights for anyone looking to lead and reform an institutional structure.

Who should read A Passion for Leadership?

  • Aspiring leaders seeking change management skills
  • Government officials interested in bureaucratic reform
  • Business executives aiming for organizational efficiency

95
Leadership Books: Momentum by Sam Silverstein

Momentum

Sam Silverstein
How to Avoid Going in the Wrong Direction
4.2 (6 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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

96
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!
4.5 (4 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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

97
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
Listen to the Intro
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

98
Leadership Books: Strategic Storytelling by Anjali Sharma

Strategic Storytelling

Anjali Sharma
Why Some Stories Drive Your Success at Work But Others Don’t
4.0 (4 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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

99
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 (5 ratings)
Listen to the Intro
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

100
Leadership Books: Talent by Tyler Cowen & Daniel Gross

Talent

Tyler Cowen & Daniel Gross
How to Identify Energizers, Creatives, and Winners Around the World
4.0 (1 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

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
  • The Speed of Trust by Stephen M.R. Covey with Rebecca R. Merrill
  • 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
  • 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