If you only read a few books in your life, make sure it’s one or more of these. They will change the way you do what you do for the better.
Linchpin by Seth Godin
There are many books that cover the “lizard and genius” human brain dichotomy, but Linchpin does is best and with most usable clarity. This is Seth’s definitive work and will force you to forever question the status quo.
The Art of Possibility by Rosamund Stone Zander
Originally wrote: “This title came up in a business conversation I had recently with someone who I’ve quickly built up a tremendous amount of respect for (you know who you are…) Surprised it took me so long to stumble on this book.”
And what an incredible book it is. After reading this, I almost believe it was the source of inspiration and core material for a number of books I rate highly (e.g. Linchpin). If you haven’t read this yet, don’t read a single other book until you have. Genuine, solid, accurate, reasonable and worthwhile observations and advice from a very colorful couple.
48 Laws of Power
Arguably a more verbose Art of War, this book will arm you in the art and war of politics and the odd nuances of people. Especially people in business. It is a dark read, often cynical but packed full of historic case studies and explanations that will bring about more “aha” moments than you’ll find in any other book. If ever you are going to be working with European-based companies, read this first.
The Innovator’s Solution by Clayton M. Christensen, Michael E. Raynor
What a remarkable book. Truly a bulk of solid business advice and sensibilities. I actually read this book for a second time shortly after finishing it the first time. There was so much that resonated with me in here and it left me with a head full of action and knowing that, while there is no 1. 2. 3. to-do list, there is a right approach to making change, disruption and innovation work in large organizations.
Definitely made my all time top ten list.
The Millionaire Fastlane by MJ DeMarco
No no no… not another get-rich-quick book???!!! Except it’s not. 113 out of 125 reviews on Amazon rated this five stars and left a ton of positive comments. So I bought it to see what all the fuss is about…
Rich Dad, Poor Dad is often considered the “go to” book of this category, and I would’ve agreed until I read this. It’s also no Four Hour Work Week either.
I much prefer MJ’s approach – no B-S, practical and realistic advice, handfuls of applicable psychology to push the norms you may have come into this work with.
I think you need a certain, very open mindset to approach this book and have it make sense for you. I can now see why it attracted so much love on Amazon.
A healthy read, but be prepared to be personally challenged.
Good to Great by Jim Collins
A true business classic that is timeless, compelling and eye opening. One of the very few books I insist all people in business must read.
Mastering the Complex Sale by Jeff Thull
A few years ago I picked up and read The Principle Solution, a useful book on modern enterprise selling mostly targeted at Senior Management. The second edition of Mastering the Complex Sale is the handbook that defines the skill and category best though. An incredible read that’s full of useful, actionable information with the added benefit of several years of real-world experiences added to back up the methods.
This goes on to my ‘everyone must read’ list, alongside Linchpin and Good to Great.
Accidental Creative by Todd Henry
After being a listener of the Accidental Creative podcast for years, it was great to see Todd finally release a book. This is an important book worth sharing for a few reasons…
1. it’s hits all the strong points from Accidental Creative – and there are many,
2. it covers a ton of uncharted territory extremely relevant to the modern knowledge worker,
3. it articulates art and creativity in way that almost anyone can digest, bringing it closer to home for engineering minds (like mine), and
4. brings all this together with a focus on mental and physical health too – it’s like a Four Hour Body for the mind.
A thoroughly recommended, refreshing read.
Meatball Sundae by Seth Godin
Sneaked this re-read in while traveling. Very surprised at how well this book continues to remain not only relevant (in a constantly changing Internet landscape) but direct and perhaps a more necessary read now than when it was first published back in 2007.
If you are in marketing, work with a Marketing department or face the outside of your business in any capacity – I insist that you digest this book.