I’m no industry titan. In fact, the only business I’ve officially run was my classroom’s “Snack Shack” back in sixth grade. But I’ve got some plans. And I know—just like you, since you’re here—that if I want my ventures to take off, reading some books on business written by professionals who have “been there, done that” is a solid first step.
To help out my fellow entrepreneurial spirits, I’ve curated a list of the best books that experts recommend you read at some point in your career. (Preferably, at the beginning.)
Let’s dig in.
1. “Converted” by Neil Hoyne
Expect to learn how to leverage data to find, acquire and keep high-value customers. Hoyne offers a fresh perspective on maintaining the customer/professional relationship (using data) while also offering practical advice. (For example: How to have meaningful conversations with customers you want to keep happy…and how to have the “it’s time to go our separate ways” with those…others.)
2. “The Art and Business of Online Writing” by Nicolas Cole
Expect to learn techniques for creating compelling online content, strategies for building a personal brand and insights into monetizing your writing skills. Cole shares his experience in navigating online writing, offering tips for success in many different types of digital platforms, including:
- How to get engaged followers.
- How to grow your audience.
- How to write headlines that capture attention.
In the digital marketplace we’re all competing in, knowing these writing skills is essential to your business’s online success.
Buy “The Art and Business of Online Writing”
3. “Present Beyond Measure” by Lea Pica
Expect to learn how to create compelling data visualizations, strategies for effective data storytelling and tips for delivering impactful presentations. Pica offers practical advice on turning complex data into clear, actionable insights.
It’s an essential resource for anyone looking to make a lasting impact with their analytics. (I can personally attest that it’s made presenting data much, much easier.)
Buy “Present Beyond Measure: Design, Visualize, and Deliver Data Stories That Inspire Action”
4. “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck” by Mark Manson
“The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck” isn’t a business book, per se. It is, however, a book on ruthless prioritization. And I feel strongly that unless you’re ruthlessly prioritizing your time, you won’t succeed in business. Now, on to the “expect to learn”…
Expect to learn how to prioritize what truly matters in life, embrace negative experiences for personal growth and develop a more realistic and constructive life philosophy.
Buy “The Subtle Art of Not Giving A F*ck”
5. “How To Win Friends & Influence People” by Dale Carnegie
Expect to learn techniques for improving interpersonal skills, strategies for influencing others positively, and principles for building strong personal and professional relationships.
It’s a classic, has been coined “the only book you need to lead you to success,” and is just as relevant today as it was when it was first released.
Buy “How to Win Friends & Influence People”
6. “The Elements of Style” by Williams Strunk Jr.
Life (and business) are all about communication. There’s no better book about effective, elegant communication than this timeless read, courtesy of Williams Strunk Jr. and updated by E.B. White.
Expect to learn the essential rules of grammar and composition, techniques for clear and concise writing and principles of effective style.
7. “The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield
Expect to learn strategies for overcoming creative blocks, insights into the nature of resistance to creative work, and techniques for maintaining discipline in creative pursuits.
Pressfield’s motivational guide explores what’s most challenging to creatives, plus practical advice for how to effectively overcome those challenges. And what’s more creative—and challenging—than an entrepreneurial pursuit?
Buy “The War of Art: Break Through the Blocks and Win Your Creative Battles”
8. “Lost and Founder: A Painfully Honest Field Guide to the Startup World” by Rand Fishkin
Expect to learn about the challenges of building a startup, how to navigate the complexities of fundraising and growth, and honest reflections on the personal toll of entrepreneurship.
Fishkin’s book is chock-full of valuable, candid insights, offering a refreshing perspective on the startup journey.
Buy “Lost and Founder: A Painfully Honest Field Guide to the Startup World”
9. “Outliers” by Malcolm Gladwell
Individual talent is not the sole determinant of achievement, according to Malcolm Gladwell.
Expect to learn about the factors that contribute to high levels of success, including the significance of culture, timing and opportunity. Yes, hard work pays off, but according to Gladwell, favorable circumstances are also just as important. It’s an interesting read and encourages you to rethink how “achievement” is defined.
10. “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey
Expect to learn (as the title suggests) the seven habits that have been proven to transform the effectiveness of your actions. Proactive behavior, goal-setting prioritization, and win-win relationships are all covered—and you’ll have to buy the book for the rest.
To start leading a more meaningful, productive life and business, start reading Covey’s book today. (And for the young entrepreneur, check out “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens,” too.)
Buy “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”
Have another to add to our list of best business books?
And for more advice on running a successful business, subscribe to our blog today.
