10 Books Every New Manager Should Read in 2024
The Best Books on Leadership
If you're stepping into a leadership role then you know that it's a thrilling ride, but let’s be honest, it can also be an incredible tricky tightrope. Luckily for every manager, the literary world has got your back! We've rummaged through the shelves and zeroed in on the 10 Best Books for New Managers to Read in 2024. These aren’t just any books; they're your secret weapon to mastering the art of management. Let’s dive in and explore these gems.
Want more ideas for leaders? Check out our list of 16 Essential Qualities Every Good Leader Should Have, 15 Telltale Signs of Bad Leadership at Work, and 9 Examples of Incredible Leaders in Modern History
10 Incredible Books For New Leaders
1. "Good to Great" by Jim Collins
What’s it about? Jim Collins's research-based book is a masterpiece that analyzes what transforms good companies into truly great ones. The study spans over five years, examining various companies that made the leap and sustained their success over long periods. Collins introduces concepts like Level 5 Leadership, the Hedgehog Concept, and the Culture of Discipline. This book is crucial for understanding the underlying principles that drive companies from mediocrity to excellence.
Why read it?
To understand the framework of transforming an average company into a stellar one.
2. "The Five Dysfunctions of a Team" by Patrick Lencioni
What’s it about?
Lencioni presents a unique model and actionable steps that can be used to overcome common hurdles faced by teams. The book unfolds in a narrative form, focusing on a CEO who is facing team dysfunction. The five dysfunctions—Absence of Trust, Fear of Conflict, Lack of Commitment, Avoidance of Accountability, and Inattention to Results—are explored in depth, making it an essential guide for building a cohesive and effective team.
Why read it?
To learn about fostering a cohesive and effective team.
3. "Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts." by Brené Brown
What’s it about?
Brené Brown brings her extensive research on courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy into the realm of leadership. This book challenges traditional notions of leadership and argues for a style that embraces vulnerability and empathy. Brown offers practical tools to help leaders create a culture of openness and encourages them to lead with their whole hearts. It's a transformative read for managers who aspire to lead more authentically.
Why read it?
To embrace a leadership style that values authenticity and connection.
4. "Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us" by Daniel H. Pink
What’s it about?
Pink's book turns the traditional understanding of motivation on its head. He argues that the secret to high performance and satisfaction—in work, school, and life—is the deeply human need to direct our own lives, to learn and create new things, and to do better by ourselves and our world. The book focuses on autonomy, mastery, and purpose as key motivators and is filled with practical advice on how to incorporate these elements into management practice.
Why read it?
To understand and harness intrinsic motivation in yourself and your team.
5. "The Lean Startup" by Eric Ries
What’s it about?
Eric Ries's revolutionary approach to business is showcased in this book. He advocates for the 'Lean Startup' method, a new approach to business that's being adopted worldwide. Ries argues for a more agile business model where iterative product releases and customer feedback are integral to product development. This book is perfect for new managers in start-ups or those looking to bring more agility and innovation to their projects.
Why read it?
To adopt agile and efficient practices in managing projects or startups.
6. "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" by Stephen R. Covey
What’s it about?
Covey's classic book is a holistic, integrated, principle-centered approach for solving personal and professional problems. With penetrating insights and practical anecdotes, Covey reveals a step-by-step pathway for living with fairness, integrity, honesty, and human dignity—principles that give us the security to adapt to change and the wisdom and power to take advantage of the opportunities that change creates.
Why read it?
To develop enduring and effective habits for success in management.
7. "Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don’t" by Simon Sinek
What’s it about?
Simon Sinek explores how leaders can inspire cooperation and change and focuses on the practice of putting your team first. Sinek draws on real-life stories from the military and business world to illustrate his points. This book is essential for understanding the importance of trust and how to foster an environment where people feel safe and valued
Why read it?
To learn how to build trust and inspire your team.
8. "Mindset: The New Psychology of Success" by Carol S. Dweck
What’s it about?
Carol S. Dweck's groundbreaking work on 'fixed' vs. 'growth' mindsets has redefined our understanding of success. In this book, she shows how success in school, work, sports, the arts, and almost every area of human endeavor can be dramatically influenced by how we think about our talents and abilities. This book is a must-read for managers who want to foster a culture of growth and learning in their teams.
Why read it?
To cultivate a growth mindset for personal and professional development.
9. "Emotional Intelligence 2.0" by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves
What’s it about?
Bradberry and Greaves delve into the realm of emotional intelligence (EQ) and its importance in leadership. The book provides strategies to improve your EQ through self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management. It’s a practical guide that includes access to an online assessment tool to measure and manage your EQ.
Why read it?
To enhance your emotional intelligence for better leadership.
10. "First, Break All the Rules: What the World's Greatest Managers Do Differently" by Marcus Buckingham and Curt Coffman
What’s it about?
Based on in-depth interviews with over 80,000 managers at all levels, this book reveals what the world's greatest managers do differently. Buckingham and Coffman argue that traditional rules of management are outdated, offering innovative approaches to talent development, motivation, and leadership. It's an eye-opening read that challenges conventional wisdom and provides new insights into management effectiveness.
Why read it?
To challenge traditional management practices and find innovative approaches.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are these managerial books suitable for managers in all industries?A: Absolutely! These books cover universal principles of management that are applicable across various industries. Whether you’re in tech, healthcare, or the creative arts, there’s a wealth of knowledge waiting for you.
Q: Can experienced managers benefit from these books?A: Of course! Even seasoned managers can find fresh perspectives and innovative strategies in these pages. It’s never too late to learn something new, right?
Q: Where can I purchase these books?A: These managerial masterpieces are available on major online bookstores and in local bookshops. You might even find them in your nearest library!
Conclusion
Well, there you have it, folks – a treasure trove of wisdom wrapped up in ten must-read books. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to brush up your skills, these managerial books are your ticket to becoming a top-notch manager. Remember, great leaders are made, not born. So, grab a cup of coffee, find a cozy spot, and start turning those pages. Your managerial journey is just beginning, and what a journey it’ll be! Happy reading!
