5 Books I Can’t Stop Recommending
As a lifelong learner and student of human behavior, I’m always on the lookout for resources that provide actionable insights and practical applications for leadership and business. Over the years, I’ve discovered a few standout books that I find myself recommending time and again. These books have profoundly shaped my approach to leadership and have been instrumental in guiding other leaders to earn and embrace their seat at the table.
Note: none of the links shared below are affiliate links; I just find myself recommending the same books over and over so I thought I’d put them in one place. Enjoy!
Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Dr. Robert Cialdini
This is one of my all-time favorites, and I recommend it to almost everyone. Dr. Robert Cialdini, a renowned behavioral scientist, distills 35 years of peer-reviewed research into why people do what they do. "Influence" is a masterclass in understanding the psychological triggers that drive human behavior. It offers invaluable insights into enhancing leadership skills, improving decision-making, and crafting more persuasive communication strategies in both business and everyday life. I’ve recommended it to everyone from CEOs to those early in their careers, and each time, they find actionable takeaways. It’s that good.
Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss
If you think about it, almost everything in life is a negotiation. This book is not only incredibly practical, it's fun to read. Voss, a former FBI hostage negotiator, shares his experience from high-stakes negotiations, offering practical strategies that go beyond the traditional approaches. It's full of useful tips you can use immediately in a wide range of situations. My favorite technique is reframing questions so people can say “no” right away, which paradoxically makes them more open and agreeable. Whether you're negotiating a business deal, a salary increase, or even where to go for vacation, the advice in this book will help you achieve better outcomes.
Negotiate Without Fear by
Dr. Victoria H. Medvec
While we’re on the subject of negotiation, this is another standout read. Unlike Voss’s book, which focuses on behavioral strategies during negotiations, Medvec’s book is all about practical strategies to prepare for negotiations.
What I love about her book is her method to connect your objectives to negotiable issues. She introduces an Issue Matrix to analyze the issues being negotiated and evaluate if the right issues are on the table (you know I love a good matrix framework!). This approach takes away the emotionality of negotiating by providing a structured method that works.
Impact Players by Liz Wiseman
In every organization, certain people stand out as stars—everyone knows who they are. Wiseman delves into what these influential players are doing differently and how small, seemingly insignificant changes in our thinking and actions can make a huge impact. It’s no surprise I love this book; much of my own coaching is focused on tweaking behaviors to amplify impact. "Impact Players" aligns perfectly with my approach, offering practical insights that you can immediately apply to have more impact and become the star of your organization.
Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller
While this book might seem tailored for marketers or business owners, its user-friendly and effective framework is incredibly valuable for leaders. Miller’s approach to storytelling is not just about branding—it's about presenting ideas in a way that resonates. I use this framework to help leaders "sell" their ideas and make a greater impact. It’s a practical tool for enhancing communication and driving influence in any context.
Final Thoughts
There you have it—five books that I can’t stop recommending. Each one stands out for its actionable insights and practical frameworks, much like the approach I take in my executive coaching.
While reading these books is a great start, working with a coach can elevate these insights to the next level. It’s not just about applying the strategies from these books; it’s about creating personalized frameworks and making targeted behavioral adjustments that drive significant, sustained results and help you navigate complex leadership scenarios.
If you're ready to turn these insights into extraordinary outcomes and become the leader everyone follows, let’s connect. My clients are high-performing leaders who are ambitious, open to feedback, and committed to their professional growth. We can tailor engagements to fit your specific goals and timeline, or you can opt for one of my targeted programs for rapid results.
Schedule a quick Zoom call with me to see if you’re a fit for my coaching and to reserve your spot on the waiting list. If the fit isn’t right or the wait is too long, I’ll gladly refer you to trusted coaches in my network.
P.S. Exciting news! My monthly newsletter, “Practical Perspectives,” launches this August. It's packed with actionable insights and strategies to help you earn and embrace your seat at the table. If you found these recommendations helpful, you'll love the exclusive content waiting for you. Sign up now and don't miss a single valuable insight!
