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108 Best Business Books Worth Your Time

This list of the most worthwhile business books, prepared by the Headway team, offers you practical, easy-to-follow lessons tailored to your personality. 

Whether you're practicing the art of influence with 'Pre-Suasion' by Robert Cialdini or trying to tackle financial literacy with 'The Millionaire Fastlane' by MJ DeMarco, these are just a few of the authors that are here to assist you with applicable concepts that you can explore at your own pace. 

You'll learn simple yet effective strategies from financial experts, innovative leaders, and top marketing authorities like Nancy Duarte, author of 'HBR Guide to Persuasive Presentations.' Go ahead! Flip through these titles, and get ready to succeed.  

Shelf goals: Business books you'll actually want to open

Simply opening a page is a small step toward professional confidence, providing ideas that are useful right away, thoughtfully organized, and simple to grasp.

If you're interested in wealth fundamentals, definitely try Robert T. Kiyosaki's mega-hit 'Rich Dad Poor Dad,' which explains how to stop relying solely on a paycheck. Meanwhile, 'Naked Economics' by Charles Wheelan will simplify essential principles behind economic decisions.

Leading a team? Improve communication with 'The 5 Languages of Appreciation in the Workplace' written by bestselling authors Gary Chapman and Paul White:

"The impact of appreciation on staff turnover is dramatic: 79% of employees who leave… cite a lack of appreciation..."

For entrepreneurial stories, 'Shoe Dog' by Phil Knight shares an inspiring retail adventure, showing how he turned early financial challenges into the story of Nike's rise to a global brand.

Books like 'Start With NO' by Jim Camp and 'The 11 Laws of Likability' by Michelle Tillis Lederman provide concrete strategies you can use right away:

"Effective listening is the single most powerful thing you can do to build and maintain… trust and collaboration."

From financial literacy to leadership tips, these reads present actionable knowledge that fits into daily work life. By opening and finishing these books one after another, you'll contribute to your steady progress and practical, goal-oriented growth. 

Brain snacks: Must-reads for business buffs 

This collection will set your focus on topics that help you learn the fundamental business concepts and ways of their use in real life. Stimulate the creative entrepreneur inside of you with 'Creativity, Inc.' by the writing team of Ed Catmull and Amy Wallace, or upgrade your marketing knowledge through 'This Is Marketing' by Seth Godin

For financial know-how, 'The Little Book of Common Sense Investing' by John Bogle remains highly relevant, while 'Flash Boys' by Michael Lewis presents a vivid account of modern finance. 

"He further believed that the only way to get people to believe that you were good for their careers was actually to be good for their careers."

Leadership lessons can be found in 'Leadership Strategy and Tactics' by Jocko Willink, and personal development guidance comes from 'The Introverted Leader' by Jennifer B. Kahnweiler

"Introverted leaders... are more likely to listen carefully to suggestions and support employees' efforts to be proactive."

Each author aims to adjust the ideas they discuss and make them clear and accessible, whether it's about team supervision, drafting a corporate strategy for the next business year, or developing useful skills. The ultimate goal is straightforward: share knowledge in a way that's both accessible and immediately useful for making progress for professional progress.

Start With NO

by Jim Camp

What is Start With NO about?

This book unveils powerful negotiation strategies that challenge conventional wisdom. Focusing on the importance of embracing rejection, it teaches readers how to maintain control and achieve successful outcomes without succumbing to pressure. With practical techniques and real-life examples, the author demystifies negotiation, empowering individuals to approach discussions with confidence and clarity, ultimately transforming how they secure agreements in both professional and personal settings.

Who should read Start With NO

Negotiators seeking to improve their skills
Sales professionals looking for effective strategies
Entrepreneurs wanting to enhance their deal-making abilities

HBR Guide to Persuasive Presentations

by Nancy Duarte

What is HBR Guide to Persuasive Presentations about?

This guide offers practical tips and techniques to create compelling presentations that captivate audiences. It emphasizes the importance of storytelling and visual communication, helping readers structure their content effectively. By exploring key concepts of persuasion and engagement, the book empowers professionals to deliver memorable presentations that influence and inspire their listeners.

Who should read HBR Guide to Persuasive Presentations

Business professionals seeking to improve presentation skills.
Students looking to enhance their public speaking abilities.
Entrepreneurs needing to pitch ideas effectively.

The Little Book of Common Sense Investing

by John Bogle

What is The Little Book of Common Sense Investing about?

This book presents a straightforward approach to investing, emphasizing the importance of low-cost index funds and long-term strategies. It highlights the common pitfalls of active investing and the benefits of a disciplined investment philosophy. Readers are guided to understand market behavior, avoid emotional decisions, and ensure they achieve their share of market returns through sound investment practices.

Who should read The Little Book of Common Sense Investing

Novice investors seeking straightforward investment strategies.
Seasoned investors wanting to reaffirm fundamental principles.
Financial advisors looking for effective investment guidance.

Bitcoin Billionaires

by Ben Mezrich

What is Bitcoin Billionaires about?

This engaging narrative chronicles the rise of Bitcoin through the lens of two brothers who were pivotal in its early days. It explores themes of innovation and the complex world of cryptocurrency, intertwined with personal stories of ambition, betrayal, and redemption. As fortunes are made and lost, the book offers an insider’s look at the volatile tech landscape and the characters that shaped it.

Who should read Bitcoin Billionaires

Tech enthusiasts curious about cryptocurrency's evolution.
Investors seeking compelling narratives in financial ventures.
Readers fascinated by true stories of innovation and risk.

Digital Gold

by Nathaniel Popper

What is Digital Gold about?

This book delves into the fascinating world of Bitcoin, exploring its origins and the eclectic group of pioneers behind its rise. Amidst Bitcoin's volatility, it presents the stories of innovators, investors, and enthusiasts who challenged traditional banking systems. Through their struggles and triumphs, the narrative reveals how this cryptocurrency has become a revolutionary force in finance, reshaping how we perceive and use money.

Who should read Digital Gold

Tech enthusiasts interested in cryptocurrency evolution.
Investors looking for insights on Bitcoin's impact.
History buffs fascinated by financial innovation narratives.

The Millionaire Fastlane

by MJ DeMarco

What is The Millionaire Fastlane about?

This book challenges conventional wisdom about wealth, advocating for a mindset shift towards entrepreneurship and financial independence. It introduces the "Fastlane" philosophy, emphasizing the importance of taking control of your economic destiny through innovative business strategies. Readers are encouraged to think beyond traditional employment, embracing risk and creativity to achieve lasting wealth and freedom. The author shares personal anecdotes and practical advice to inspire a proactive approach to building wealth.

Who should read The Millionaire Fastlane

Aspiring entrepreneurs seeking financial independence.
People looking for unconventional wealth-building strategies.
Readers tired of the traditional 9-to-5 lifestyle.

Screw It, Let’s Do It

by Richard Branson

What is Screw It, Let’s Do It about?

This motivational guide distills insights from the author's adventurous life and entrepreneurial journey. Through personal anecdotes and lessons learned, it encourages readers to embrace risk, pursue passions, and break free from conventional thinking. The book champions a positive mindset and the importance of resilience, offering practical advice for achieving success and happiness in both personal and professional realms.

Who should read Screw It, Let’s Do It

Entrepreneurs seeking inspiration and motivation.
Fans of Richard Branson's adventurous spirit.
Anyone looking for practical life lessons.

Trump

by Donald J. Trump, Meredith McIver

What is Trump about?

This book offers insights into the business strategies and mindset of a successful entrepreneur. Through practical advice and personal anecdotes, it explores the principles behind wealth accumulation and financial success. Readers are encouraged to adopt an aggressive approach to business opportunities while navigating challenges with confidence. The narrative combines motivational elements with real-life lessons from the author's experiences in real estate and investment.

Who should read Trump

Aspiring entrepreneurs seeking wealth-building strategies.
Fans of Donald Trump interested in his business philosophy.
Readers looking for insights on financial success techniques.

Pre-Suasion

by Robert Cialdini

What is Pre-Suasion about?

This book explores the art of persuasion, emphasizing the importance of the moments leading up to a message delivery. It introduces the concept of 'pre-suasion,' which highlights how the context and environment can prime people to be more receptive to subsequent messages. Through psychological insights and real-world examples, it demonstrates how to strategically influence decisions before any overt persuasion takes place.

Who should read Pre-Suasion

Marketing professionals seeking effective persuasion techniques.
Salespeople aiming to enhance their influencing skills.
Psychologists interested in understanding human decision-making processes.

Money-Making Mom

by Crystal Paine

What is Money-Making Mom about?

This empowering guide offers practical strategies for women seeking to boost their income while balancing family life. The author shares inspiring stories and actionable tips on entrepreneurship, financial management, and personal growth, encouraging readers to discover their unique talents and leverage them into profitable ventures. By promoting a mindset of resilience and creativity, it aims to inspire women to create financial independence and positively impact their communities.

Who should read Money-Making Mom

Entrepreneurial moms seeking financial independence.
Women wanting to balance work and family life.
Individuals interested in personal finance and business growth.

The 11 Laws of Likability

by Michelle Tillis Lederman

What is The 11 Laws of Likability about?

This insightful guide explores the essential principles of building genuine relationships in both personal and professional realms. It emphasizes the importance of likability in networking, presenting eleven key laws that enhance interpersonal connections. Through practical advice and relatable examples, the author illustrates how fostering authentic relationships can lead to greater success and fulfillment in business. Readers will discover actionable strategies to become more likable and strengthen their networks.

Who should read The 11 Laws of Likability

Business professionals seeking to improve networking skills.
Entrepreneurs looking to build meaningful relationships.
Salespeople aiming to enhance customer connections.

Never Get a Real Job

by Scott Gerber, Sean Pratt

What is Never Get a Real Job about?

This book offers a practical guide for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to break free from traditional employment. It provides insights on identifying profitable business ideas, developing a strong brand, and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. Through engaging anecdotes and strategic advice, readers are encouraged to embrace the risks of self-employment while learning how to maintain financial stability and build a successful business without going broke.

Who should read Never Get a Real Job

Aspiring entrepreneurs tired of the 9-to-5 grind.
Career changers seeking freedom through entrepreneurship.
Young professionals wanting to ditch traditional corporate jobs.

Shoe Dog

by Phil Knight

What is Shoe Dog about?

This candid memoir chronicles the journey of a struggling entrepreneur who founded a global sportswear empire. Through a series of challenges and triumphs, the narrative reveals the perseverance, creativity, and passion behind building one of the world's most iconic brands. With insights into the competitive landscape of the athletic industry and personal reflections on leadership, the story is both inspiring and a testament to the American entrepreneurial spirit.

Who should read Shoe Dog

Entrepreneurs seeking inspiration from a successful business leader.
Sports enthusiasts interested in the history of Nike.
Fans of memoirs that reveal behind-the-scenes business strategies.

The Introverted Leader

by Jennifer B. Kahnweiler, PhD

What is The Introverted Leader about?

This insightful guide empowers introverts to embrace their natural strengths in leadership roles. By providing practical strategies and real-world examples, it shows how quiet individuals can cultivate confidence, effectively communicate, and lead with authenticity. The book encourages readers to leverage their unique traits, dispelling myths about leadership being solely an extroverted domain, and ultimately helps introverted leaders thrive in their professional environments.

Who should read The Introverted Leader

Introverts seeking to enhance leadership skills.
Quiet individuals wanting to leverage their strengths.
Leaders interested in diverse leadership styles.

15 Secrets Successful People Know About Time Management

by Kevin Kruse

What is 15 Secrets Successful People Know About Time Management about?

This book unveils powerful time management secrets practiced by highly successful individuals across various fields. Through insights from billionaires, athletes, scholars, and entrepreneurs, it illustrates practical habits and strategies that enhance productivity and efficiency. Readers will discover how to prioritize tasks, eliminate distractions, and maximize their time to achieve personal and professional goals, ultimately transforming their approach to managing the most valuable resource of all: time.

Who should read 15 Secrets Successful People Know About Time Management

Busy professionals seeking better time management strategies.
Students aiming for academic excellence and productivity skills.
Entrepreneurs looking to optimize their daily routines.

This Is Marketing

by Seth Godin

What is This Is Marketing about?

This insightful guide explores the art of modern marketing, emphasizing the importance of understanding and serving a specific audience. It challenges traditional approaches, advocating for value creation and meaningful connections over mere transactions. Through practical strategies and powerful concepts, it encourages readers to shift their mindset, enabling them to craft impactful messages that resonate with their target market and foster loyalty.

Who should read This Is Marketing

Aspiring marketers seeking innovative strategies.
Business owners wanting to enhance their brand visibility.
Students studying marketing principles and consumer behavior.

The Coaching Habit

by Michael Bungay Stanier

What is The Coaching Habit about?

This book provides practical insights on how to become a more effective leader through the art of coaching. By focusing on asking the right questions and fostering meaningful conversations, it empowers readers to unlock the potential of their teams. With accessible techniques and a straightforward approach, it helps leaders cultivate a coaching habit that enhances workplace dynamics and drives lasting change.

Who should read The Coaching Habit

Managers looking to improve their coaching skills.
Leaders seeking effective communication techniques.
Professionals wanting to enhance team performance through questions.

The Wolf Of Wall Street

by Jordan Belfort

What is The Wolf Of Wall Street about?

This gripping memoir details the rise and fall of a stockbroker who led a life of excess, deceit, and moral decay on Wall Street. Through high-stakes trading, relentless ambition, and a lifestyle filled with parties, drugs, and relentless greed, the author chronicles his meteoric ascent and eventual downfall due to legal troubles. It's a cautionary tale about the dark side of the American Dream and the consequences of unchecked ambition.

Who should read The Wolf Of Wall Street

Aspiring entrepreneurs seeking financial success advice.
Finance enthusiasts interested in stock market strategies.
Readers intrigued by high-stakes, real-life business stories.

Stock Investing for Dummies

by Paul Mladjenovic

What is Stock Investing for Dummies about?

This comprehensive guide demystifies the stock market, offering practical strategies for beginners to build wealth through investing. It covers essential concepts such as stock analysis, market trends, and portfolio diversification, empowering readers with the confidence to make informed investment decisions. With clear explanations and actionable tips, it serves as an essential resource for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of stock investing.

Who should read Stock Investing for Dummies

Beginner investors seeking foundational stock knowledge.
Individuals wanting to enhance their personal finance skills.
Anyone interested in understanding stock market strategies.

Leadership Strategy and Tactics

by Jocko Willink

What is Leadership Strategy and Tactics about?

This practical guide offers insights into effective leadership through a blend of strategy and tactical wisdom. Drawing from military experiences, it emphasizes decision-making, teamwork, and adaptability in various scenarios. The book provides actionable principles designed to enhance leadership skills, promote accountability, and cultivate resilience, making it an essential resource for leaders at all levels seeking to inspire and motivate their teams.

Who should read Leadership Strategy and Tactics

Aspiring leaders seeking practical leadership techniques.
Veterans transitioning into civilian leadership roles.
Business professionals looking to enhance their strategic skills.

Frequently asked questions about business books

What are the best business books to read?

The best of the best business books to read would be 'Thinking, Fast and Slow' by Daniel Kahneman (being analytical about decision-making), and 'Zero to One' by Peter Thiel (innovation and vision). For a shift in mindset, 'Think and Grow Rich!' by Napoleon Hill is the way to go. These titles combine psychology, strategic thinking, and practical business knowledge.

What are the top 10 books for entrepreneurs?

  1. 'Zero to One'Thiel & Masters

  2. 'The Millionaire Fastlane'DeMarco

  3. 'Think and Grow Rich!' — Hill

  4. 'The 10X Rule'Cardone

  5. 'The 1-Page Marketing Plan'Dib

  6. 'Rework'Fried, Hansson

  7. 'Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook'Vaynerchuk

  8. 'Creativity, Inc.'Catmull & Wallace

  9. 'Shoe Dog' Knight

  10. 'Never Get a Real Job'Gerber & Pratt (the best one when you're starting and planning to grow an independent venture).

What books should a CEO read?

The CEO would need guidance on how to be a wise leader and prioritize long-term vision. Recommended titles include 'Good to Great' by Jim Collins and 'Principles for Dealing with the Changing World Order' by Ray Dalio. If you're in search of a good mentor, 'Trillion Dollar Coach' by Eric Schmidt will supply you with high-level management lessons on decision-making.

What are the best books to learn about business?

To build a solid foundation, read 'The Big Short' by Michael Lewis for advice on financial systems and crises, and 'Tribes' by Seth Godin for community and organizational strategy. Pair with 'The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing' by Al Ries to gain a firm grasp of marketing principles applicable to any enterprise.

What business book should I read first?

To develop financial understanding and perspective, start with 'Rich Dad Poor Dad' by a popular American author and business builder, Robert Kiyosaki. Alternatively, 'Start With NO' by Jim Camp provides immediate practical strategies for negotiation and decision-making that can be applied to everyday business and personal interactions.

What's the #1 most-read book of all time?

The Holy Bible is the world's most-read book, offering guidance on pre-planning and working diligently (Proverbs 21:5), which ensures prosperity. It encourages you to act with integrity (Proverbs 11:1) to build trust and manage resources wisely (Luke 14:28) by counting the cost before starting a project — a gentle reminder that good values lead to good business.

What's the best way to get business knowledge?

The most effective way to get business knowledge is to combine reading and practical application. 'Brewing Up a Business' by Sam Calagione introduces and explains real-world business cases, allowing readers to explore them and draw logical conclusions. The author will explain in detail how to apply the lessons that the cases teach us through the feedback of mentors.