5 Top Leadership Books
So many books are available on leadership, sharing advice and wisdom. Here are five that I have read more than once and keep returning to, because they offer so many usable ideas. Each of them are very different in their styles - but together they will lead you on a successful path for your leadership journey. Here are my 5 favourite leadership books.
1. How To Win Friends and Influence People in the Digital Age- By Dale Carnegie & Associates, with Brent Cole
Originally published in 1936, it has sold over 30 million copies worldwide, making it one of the bestselling books of all time. This version is adapted from the timeless bestseller. It is this modern version that I find most relevant for 2021. It is by far the best book I have ever read on building positive relationships in the workplace. I have used many of the strategies suggested in the book and you are guaranteed to have success with people if you use them too.
The title should not deter you. I didn't pick the book up to win friends, however as a leader, I did want to influence people.
The book is divided into four parts: Part 1: Essentials of Engagement, Part 2: Six Ways to Make a Lasting Impression, Part 3: How to Merit and Maintain Other's Trust and Part Four; How to Lead Change without Resistance or Resentment.
It is loaded with ideas, strategies and immediate ways to positively transform how you interact with the people you lead.
2. Dare To Lead - By Brene Brown
A favorite list wouldn't be complete without a Brene Brown book on it. With her authentic voice and depth of research, any book she writes is guaranteed to have an impact on you, for the better.
She is a talented story teller and instantly captivates you with her honesty and down to earth anecdotes. I read this book as part of a professional learning group I belong to. It certainly wasn't a hardship to read.
For me, the biggest takeaway from this book is the importance of leading with courage and whole heartedness. Often we 'armor' up at work in the hope that this will make us more productive and efficient. Brene goes on to write that when we imprison the heart, we kill courage.
