Books
Timeless Classics
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Bennis, W. (2009 ). On Becoming a Leader (4th ed.). Basic Books. ©1989
Provides valuable insights into the mindset and qualities that distinguish exceptional leaders. By blending theoretical concepts with real-life examples, it presents leadership as an ongoing journey of self-discovery and continuous growth, encompassing personal development, introspection, and a dedication to lifelong learning.
- Blanchard, K. & Johnson, S. (2004). The One Minute Manager. HarperCollins Publishers. © 1981.
A brief and effective approach to leadership, distilled into three key practices: One Minute Goal Setting, One Minute Praising, and One Minute Reprimand. The approach emphasizes setting clear goals, providing immediate positive feedback, and promptly addressing performance issues.
- Blanchard, K., Oncken, W. & Burrows, H. (1989). The One Minute Manager Meets the Monkey, Harper.
Explores effective delegation by learning how to empower employees to solve their problems instead of shouldering unnecessary burdens. The book offers practical advice on delegation and time management for improved team productivity.
- Blanchard, K., (2010). Leading at a Higher Level. Revised & Expanded Ed. Prentice Hall.
A leadership guide focusing on effective principles and practices, with strategies for leading with integrity, purpose and impact. Blanchard advocates servant leadership, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the needs of team members. The book introduces the “Situational Leadership® II Model,” guiding leaders to adapt their style based on team members’ developmental levels. Throughout, Blanchard highlights key concepts like goal-setting, communication, collaboration, ethical leadership, and a commitment to serving others.
- Brooks, J. (1969). Business Adventures: Twelve Classic Tales from the World of Wall Street". Weybright and Talley. New York.
Bill Gates and Warren Buffet say this collection of engaging and insightful stories that capture the essence of the business world is best business book ever written. It offers a timeless exploration of the complexities, triumphs, and failures in the world of finance and business, providing readers with valuable insights and lessons from historical events.
- Buckingham, M. & Coffman, C. (1999). First Break All the Rules: What the World’s Greatest Managers Do Differently. Simon & Schuster.
Based on Gallup’s extensive research, the book underscores the unique qualities and behaviours of successful managers who defy conventional practices by leveraging the unique strengths of each individual rather than relying on one-size-fits-all management. The book explains how best managers select an employee for talent rather than for skills or experience; how they set expectations by defining the right outcomes rather than the right steps; how they motivate people by building on each person’s unique strengths rather than trying to fix his weaknesses; and finally how they develop people by finding the right fit for each person, not the next rung on the ladder.
- Carnegie, D. ( 2022). How to Win Friends and Influence People. Penguin. ©1936
This most influential confidence-boosting motivational self-help guide in history updated for today’s reader. Carnegie’s rock-solid, experience-tested advice addresses timeless questions about the art of getting along with people. In engaging conversational style Dale Carnegie offers practical advice and techniques for how to get out of a mental rut and make life more rewarding. He advises on how to make friends quickly and easily, win people over to your way of thinking, become a better speaker and more entertaining conversationalist and arouse enthusiasm among your associates.
- Chan Kim, W., & Mauborgne, R. (2015). Blue Ocean Strategy, Expanded Edition: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make the Competition Irrelevant. Harvard Business Review Press ©2004
Introduces ground-breaking business strategy that encourages organizations to shift from competing in existing market spaces (red oceans) to creating new, uncontested markets (blue oceans). The authors argue that companies can achieve sustainable success and outperform competitors by innovating and finding new market opportunities, rather than engaging in fierce competition in existing markets. The book provides a systematic approach and numerous case studies to guide businesses in the process of creating their own blue ocean strategies, emphasizing the importance of value innovation and customer focus.
- Christensen, C.M. (1997). The Innovator’s Dilemma. Harvard Business Review Press.
A seminal work in the field of innovation and business strategy, influencing how established companies can navigate disruptive technological changes. Christensen argues that successful companies can fail when they become too focused on sustaining existing products and processes, overlooking disruptive technologies that could reshape their industries. The dilemma lies in the tension between sustaining innovations that improve existing products and disruptive innovations that introduce new, often simpler and more affordable, solutions. Christensen provides examples from various industries to illustrate how companies can navigate this dilemma, emphasizing the need for strategic agility and a willingness to disrupt their own business models to stay competitive in the face of rapid technological change.
- Cialdini, R.B. (2007). Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion. New York: Collins.
Explains the six universal psychological principles of persuasion that drive our powerful impulse to comply to the pressures of others; Reciprocity, Commitment, Social Proof, Authority, Liking, and Scarcity. Backed by real-life examples and studies, the book not only imparts practical advice on the ethical employment of these principles but also equips individuals with the tools to discern and resist unwarranted influence and manipulation.
- Collins, J.C. (2001 ). Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap … and Others Don’t. Harper Collins.
“Good to Great” is a highly acclaimed management book that reads like a fast-paced, offering crucial insights for organizational success. After a comprehensive five-year research project, Collins concludes that the transition from good to great is achievable for any organization. He reveals the underlying variables that drive this transformation, challenging conventional thinking. He argues that companies without inherent greatness can thrive if they adopt specific behaviours, highlighting principles such as leadership, disciplined decision-making, and a focus on long-term sustainability. Supported by rigorous evidence and surprising findings, the book provides valuable insights into the strategies distinguishing successful companies on their journey from good to great.
- Collins, J.C. & Porras J.I. ( 1994). Built to Last: Successful Habits of Visionary Companies. Harper . New York.
Explores the characteristics of enduring and successful companies. The book identifies key principles that distinguish visionary companies from others. Through extensive research, the authors uncover habits and strategies that contribute to the long-term success and sustainability of these organizations. The book emphasizes timeless principles, enduring values, and a commitment to innovation as essential elements for companies that stand the test of time.
- Covey, S.R. (1989). The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Restoring the Character Ethic. (Updated & Expanded), Simons & Shuster.
Covey presents a comprehensive approach to personal and professional effectiveness. He outlines seven key principles or habits: being proactive, beginning with the end in mind, prioritizing, thinking win-win, understanding before being understood, synergizing, and continuous self-renewal. His emphasis on fairness, integrity, honesty, and human dignity provides a step-by-step pathway to long-term success and fulfilment. The book encourages a paradigm shift, urging readers to adopt habits that empower them to be proactive, prioritize effectively, and build meaningful relationships. Despite requiring a shift in perspective, it is widely regarded as a timeless guide for achieving lasting personal effectiveness.
- De Bono, E. (1985 ). Six Thinking Hats. An Essential Approach to Business Management. Little Brown & Co..
This classic book on meetings remains as relevant as ever. It is a simple, effective parallel thinking process that helps people be more productive, focused, and mindfully involved. A powerful tool set, which once learned can be applied immediately with potential to reduce meeting lengths to one quarter of what they were previously, make decisions in just 15 minutes rather than 3 hours, and increase productivity by nearly 500%. Hence using this simple tool not only increases efficiency in discussions and decision-making, but also encourages openness and trust among colleagues, resulting in happier team, a rise in productivity, and decisions which almost make themselves.
- Drucker, P.F. ( 2001). The Essential Drucker: Selections from the Management Works of Peter F. Drucker. Harper Collins.
A comprehensive guide to effective business management distilling key lessons from decades of management consulting. The book encompasses a broad spectrum of topics, from fundamental management principles to advanced concepts such as innovation and marketing. Providing guidance on setting ambitious yet achievable goals, hiring for organizational fit, nurturing knowledge workers, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation, and crafting strategies for growth, this guide is a comprehensive resource. With twenty-six core selections, covering the basic principles and concerns of management and its problems, challenges, and opportunities, the book equips professionals with the tools needed to navigate the evolving demands of the future economy and society.
- Drucker, P.F. (1954). The Practice of Management. Harper & Row.
This work has been a timeless guide for generations of managers and leaders, akin to a handbook for navigating the complexities of business and leadership. In this seminal work, Drucker outlines the five basic tasks of management—setting objectives, organising, motivating and communicating, measuring performance, and developing people. He introduces the concept of Management by Objectives (MBO), emphasizing the importance of collaborative goal setting. The book explores the changing role of managers, decision-making processes, ethical considerations, and the imperative of innovation and entrepreneurship. His enduring insights are remarkably relevant today for those seeking effective and ethical management practices.
- Drucker, P.F. (1967). The Effective Executive. Harper & Row
Effectiveness at work depends on clarity of aims and the desire to contribute. Drucker emphasizes the importance of effectiveness over efficiency, highlighting key principles such as time management, setting priorities, informed decision-making, awareness of strengths and weaknesses, effective communication, continuous learning and active contributions to organisational success. His emphasis on learned skills, self-management, and a proactive mindset makes it a concise yet comprehensive manual for effective leadership.
- Drucker, P.F. (1973). Management: Tasks, Responsibilities, Practices. Harper & Row.
The author provides insights into the various aspects of managerial responsibilities, the role of managers in shaping organizational culture, and the importance of adapting to societal and economic changes. It reflects the evolving nature of management in response to changes in the business environment. Published nearly two decades after his first major work, this book incorporates Drucker’s reflections on the evolving business landscape and the emergence of new management challenges.
- Fisher, R. Ury, W. & Patton, B. (2011). Getting to Yes. Penguin Books. 3rd Rev. Ed. ©1981
Successful negotiation is based on principles, not pressure. This is a collaborative negotiation guide, introducing the principled negotiation approach, emphasising a win-win mindset. Key concepts include separating people from the problem, focusing on interests rather than positions, generating options for mutual gain, and insisting on objective criteria for agreement. The authors advocate for a collaborative and problem-solving approach to negotiations, promoting effective communication and understanding to achieve agreements that satisfy both parties. The book has been widely influential in the field of negotiation and conflict resolution.
- Frankl, V.E. (2004). Man’s Search For Meaning. Rider. ©1946
This is a timeless exploration of the human spirit’s resilience and capacity to find hope and purpose in the darkest times. Based on the author’s experiences as a Holocaust survivor, the poignant memoir is divided into two parts. The first vividly recounts the horrors of concentration camps, emphasizing humanity’s ability to discover meaning and purpose even in extreme suffering. The second part introduces logotherapy, Frankl’s existential psychotherapy, highlighting the importance of a meaningful life. This enduring work remains a profound exploration of the human spirit’s resilience and quest for purpose. Frankl’s profound insights have left an indelible mark on psychology and philosophy, establishing the book as a classic in understanding the human condition.
- Gladwell, M. ( 2000). The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference. Little, Brown & Co.
A thought-provoking exploration of social dynamics and factors that contribute to the sudden and widespread adoption of trends or ideas. Explores how small actions or events can lead to a tipping point, causing a significant and often unexpected change in a system. He identifies three pivotal factors: the Law of the Few, underscoring the influential individuals who play a disproportionate role in the spread of ideas or trends; the Stickiness Factor, focusing on the memorability of ideas; and the Power of Context, highlighting the influence of the environment and context in shaping behaviour. Using real-world examples, he illustrates how these factors contribute to the spread of ideas, the popularity of products, and social trends. The book provides valuable insights into understanding and leveraging tipping points for positive change.
- Gladwell, M. (2008). Outliers: The Story of Success. Little, Brown & Co.
Explores the factors influencing success beyond individual talent and hard work. Gladwell introduces concepts such as the 10,000-Hour Rule, emphasising extensive practice for mastery. He examines the role of cultural background, family legacy, and opportunities in shaping success. The Matthew Effect highlights how small advantages or disadvantages can accumulate over time. Gladwell also underscores the influence of timing, community, and support systems in achieving extraordinary accomplishments. Overall, “Outliers” challenges the conventional view of success, emphasizing the broader context and external factors that contribute to high achievement, and that no one, not even a genius, ever makes it alone.
- Gladwell, M. (2005). Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking. Penguin.
“Blink” delves into the idea that spontaneous decisions made in the blink of an eye can sometimes be as accurate, or even more so, than decisions made after extensive analysis. Gladwell explores the power of intuition, drawing on various examples and studies to highlight instances where rapid cognition, or thinking without thinking, leads to successful outcomes. The book also discusses the factors that influence these quick judgments, including experience, expertise, and cultural conditioning. Overall, “Blink” challenges the conventional belief in the need for deliberate and thorough decision-making, suggesting that sometimes our initial instincts can provide valuable insights.
- Hamel, G., & Prahalad, C.K. ( 1994) Competing for the Future. Harvard Business School Press.
A guide for managers seeking to revolutionize industries and establish future markets. Challenging traditional strategic planning, the authors advocate identifying and cultivating core competencies to create enduring value. They promote a distinct mindset, urging organizations to be forward-thinking, innovative, resourceful, and flexible in the evolving competitive landscape. Presenting a strategic framework for navigating dynamic business environments, the guide empowers businesses to foresee and capitalize on industry trends, breaking free from conventional structures to actively shape their trajectories. They highlight the ongoing necessity for companies to reinvent themselves, leveraging distinctive strengths for sustained competitive advantage.
- Handy, C. (1976). Understanding Organisations. Oxford University Press.
A comprehensive exploration of organizational structures and cultures, providing a framework for comphrending the complexities of organizations and their management. Handy introduces the “Four Cultures” model, categorizing organizations into Power, Role, Task, and Person cultures. It has practical insights for managers and leaders, offering insights into how different organizational cultures may impact management approaches, decision-making processes, and overall effectiveness. With a focus on the relevance of individuals, Handy discusses their roles and responsibilities in the context of organizational culture. The book addresses the challenges of organizational change and adaptation, discussing how organizations can navigate change successfully and the role of leadership in facilitating transformation.
- Handy, C. (1989). The Age of Unreason, Random House
Thought-provoking exploration into the profound changes reshaping the business and social landscape. Handy challenges conventional thinking by asserting that past certainties yield to uncertainty and rapid change. He scrutinises how transformative shifts are reshaping business, education, and work, exemplified by technological advancements, a shift from manual to cerebral skills, and a decline in lifelong, full-time jobs. Key themes include the essential traits of adaptability, flexibility, and creativity required in the face of dynamic business environments. He discusses the need for new kinds of organizations, progressive work approaches, modern education models and new types of schools, and new ideas about the nature of our society.
- Horowitz, B. (2014). The Hard Thing About Hard Things. Harper Collins.
Authored by respected Silicon Valley entrepreneur, the book serves as a guide for entrepreneurs and leaders. It provides practical advice and insights into the challenges of running a start-up or leading a company. Drawing personal experience, the author delves into crucial aspects such as managing difficult situations, coping with failure, navigating through turbulent times, and handling sensitive topics like employee layoffs, handling investor relationships, and making tough decisions.
- Johnson, S. ( 1998). Who Moved My Cheese? An Amazing Way to Deal with Change in Your Work and Your Life. G.P. Putnam's Sons.
A motivational and insightful book that presents a simple yet powerful metaphor to address change in work and life. The narrative revolves around four characters in a maze who encounter changes in the location of their cheese, symbolizing life’s challenges. The book encourages readers to adapt to change proactively, demonstrating that flexibility and a positive mindset are crucial for navigating uncertainties. Through this allegorical tale, Johnson provides valuable lessons on embracing change, letting go of fear, and approaching challenges with resilience and an open mind.
- Kahneman, D. ( 2011). Thinking Fast and Slow. Farrar, Straus and Giroux.
Based on decades of research, this is a ground breaking exploration of the cognitive mechanisms influencing judgment, decision-making, and behavioural economics. It delves into the two systems that govern human thought processes: System 1, the fast and intuitive processes driven by instincts and emotions, and System 2, the slow and analytical system based on deliberate thinking and reasoning. The book reveals insights into the biases and errors impacting decision-making, offering a comprehensive understanding of how individuals think, make choices, and navigate the complexities of the mind. With a focus on the behavioural economic principles, Kahneman provides guidance on how to think and avoid mistakes, particularly in high-stake situations.
- Kotter, J.P. ( 1996). Leading Change. Harvard Business Review Press.
A seminal work that provides a comprehensive guide to effectively managing and leading organizational change. Kotter introduces an eight-step process for leading change, emphasizing the importance of creating a sense of urgency, building a guiding coalition, developing a vision and strategy, communicating the change vision, empowering others to act on the vision, generating short-term wins, consolidating gains, and anchoring change in the organizational culture. The book serves as a practical resource for leaders navigating the complexities of change management, and offers valuable insights into successfully implementing transformative initiatives within organizations.
- Lencioni, P. (2002). The Five Dysfunctions of a Team. Jossey-Bass.
A leadership fable that explores common pitfalls hindering team success. Lencioni identifies five dysfunctions—absence of trust, fear of conflict, lack of commitment, avoidance of accountability, and inattention to results—that can undermine team cohesion. Through the story of a fictional executive team, the book illustrates how these dysfunctions can manifest and provides practical strategies for overcoming them. Lencioni emphasizes the importance of building trust, encouraging healthy conflict, fostering commitment, holding team members accountable, and prioritizing collective results. The book serves as a valuable resource for leaders seeking to enhance team dynamics and achieve organizational success.
- Machiavelli, N. ( 1532). The Prince. Antonio Blado d'Asola.
A classic treatise on sociopathic ruling, offering timeless lessons for leaders on how to acquire, maintain, and consolidate power. Written in the early 16th century, Machiavelli’s work is known for its pragmatic and realistic approach which advocates that leaders prioritize practicality over moral considerations to achieve their goals. The book explores various strategies for governance, diplomacy, and military leadership, offering insights into the complexities of political manoeuvring. While some current historical work seems to suggest that it may have been written as satire, it has nonetheless been used as a guidebook for people in any and all fields who want to improve their lot, and are willing to damn any that come against him.
- Moore, G.A. (1991). For Crossing the Chasm. Haper Business.
A classic in the field of technology marketing and business strategy. The author focuses on the challenges technology companies face when marketing and selling innovative products, particularly during the transition from early adopters to mainstream customers. The “chasm” refers to the gap between these two groups. The book offers decision-making guidelines for investors, engineers, enterprise executives, marketers and managers throughout the high-tech community. Real-world examples of companies that have struggled in the chasm are also provided.
- Patterson, K., Grenny, J., McMillan, R., & Switzler, A. (2002 ) Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When the Stakes are High. New York. McGraw-Hill.
A guide to navigating difficult discussions effectively. The book provides a framework and tools for engaging in crucial conversations—those where emotions are high, opinions differ, and the stakes are significant. The authors emphasize the importance of creating a safe environment for open dialogue, mastering dialogue skills, and staying focused on mutual goals. Drawing on research and real-life examples, the book offers practical techniques to enhance communication, manage conflicts, and build stronger relationships, making it a valuable resource for both personal and professional development.
- Peters, L.J. & Hull, R. ( 1969) The Peter Principle. William Morrow & Co..
A humorous exploration of organizational dynamics introducing the concept that individuals within a hierarchy tend to rise to their level of incompetence. The authors argue that in a hierarchical structure, employees will continue to be promoted until they reach a position requiring different skills where they are no longer competent, at which point they will remain stuck. This outcome is inevitable, given enough time and enough positions in the hierarchy to which competent employees may be promoted. The book uses satire and anecdotes to highlight the absurdities of organizational promotion systems and provides a light-hearted perspective on the challenges of managing and leading within a hierarchy.
- Peters, T.J. & Waterman, R.H. ( 1982). In Search of Excellence: Lessons from America’s Best-Run Companies. Harper & Row.
The authors conducted extensive research within 43 leading American companies. They distil the success of these companies into eight core principles; prioritize decisive action, stay closely attuned to customer needs, and foster autonomy and entrepreneurship. Recognising that “Productivity through People” is a key driver of success, they value and invest in their workforce with leaders exhibiting a “Hands-On, Value-Driven” approach, actively participating in shaping the company’s core values and activities. Success is further achieved by focusing on core competencies, maintaining a lean organizational structure, and striking a balance between autonomy and control.
- Porter, M.E. (1980). Competitive Strategy, Techniques for Analyzing Industries and Competitors. The Free Press. New York.
Considered a business classic thanks to focus on simple and universally applicable basics on what makes a business competitive. Porter introduces the concept of competitive strategy and provides a framework for analysing industries and competitors to achieve a sustainable competitive advantage. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the five competitive forces that shape an industry: the bargaining power of buyers, the bargaining power of suppliers, the threat of new entrants, the threat of substitute products or services, and the intensity of competitive rivalry. Porter also introduces generic strategies, including cost leadership, differentiation, and focus, as ways for businesses to position themselves in the market. The book serves as a foundational resource for strategic management and has had a significant impact on the way businesses approach competition and strategy.
- Porter, M.E. (1985). Competitive Advantage: Creating and Sustaining Superior Performance. The Free Press.
Expanding upon the concepts introduced in “Competitive Strategy,” Porter presents a comprehensive framework for attaining enduring excellence in the business domain. He explores sources of competitive advantage and strategies for sustaining superior performance over time. He introduces generic strategies, emphasizing the importance of clear market positioning and the value chain framework, highlighting the role of optimising activities for cost advantages or differentiation. Sustainable competitive advantage is a central theme, addressing factors like imitation and innovation. Porter also discusses the strategic choice between broad or niche market targeting.
- Semler, R. (1993). Maverick: The Success Story Behind the World's Most Unusual Workplace, Warner Books.
A ground breaking management and business book exploring the unconventional practices and success of Semco, a Brazilian company under the visionary leadership of Semler who discarded traditional norms. Semler’s unconventional strategies not only challenge corporate conventions but also serve as a testament to the remarkable success achievable through innovation and a commitment to employee autonomy. The book illuminates Semco’s distinctive features, including decentralized decision-making, flexible work structures, and an unwavering commitment to employee empowerment. It reveals bold initiatives such as workers assuming roles traditionally reserved for their superiors, managerial staff autonomously determining their salaries and bonuses, transparent access to company financials for all, a minimalistic approach to meetings and approvals, and the removal of internal walls. Shopfloor workers take charge of setting productivity targets and schedules. The outcome is remarkable—Semco emerges as one of Latin America’s fastest-growing companies, earning acclaim as the best workplace in Brazil with a large waiting list of eager applicants.
- Senge, P.M. ( 1990). The Fifth Discipline: The Art & Practice of the Learning Organisation. Doubleday/Currency. New York.
A timeless classic that offers a blueprint for creating learning organizations. Its timeless significance lies in its promotion of holistic thinking, perpetual learning, and the profound value placed on individual and collective growth. Senge outlines five disciplines crucial for creating and sustaining a learning organization: personal mastery, mental models, shared vision, team learning, and systems thinking. He emphasises the importance of integrating these disciplines to create organizations that can adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing environment. His insights have had a lasting impact on the field of organizational development, influencing leaders to prioritize continuous learning, collaboration, and systems thinking for long-term success.
- Sinek, S. (2009). Start with Why. Portfolio.
Sinek starts by comparing the two main ways to influence human behaviour: manipulation and inspiration. He contends that inspiration is not only more potent but also enduring, with people are inspired by a sense of purpose (the “Why”), and that this should come first when communicating, before “How” and “What”. Sinek introduces the concept of the golden circle, a triad resembling a bullseye, where the innermost circle represents “Why” (people’s motives or purposes), surrounded by “How” (processes or methods), and enclosed in “What” (results or outcomes). He argues that successful individuals and organizations start by defining their purpose or cause—the “why”—before focusing on the “how” or “what.” Average companies focus on “what” they produce. He emphasises the importance of inspiring others by articulating a clear and compelling sense of purpose, and draws on examples from various companies and leaders to illustrate the transformative impact of starting with “why” in achieving sustained success and influence.
- Sloan, A. (1963). My Years with General Motors
Sloan’s autobiography recounts his influential tenure as GM’s CEO from 1923 to 1946. The narrative distils fifty years of profound leadership experience delving into the inner workings of a colossal corporation within the automotive industry. Through personal glimpses, Sloan gives a first-hand account of pivotal events and innovative business strategies. He reveals the refined “discipline of management” that he perfected throughout his career as he reflects on his corporate ascent, shares management insights, and unveils transformative concepts like the annual model change and the Sloan ladder. Even today, Bill Gates praises My Years with General Motors as the best book to read on business, and Business Week has named it number one for “bookshelf of indispensable reading”.
- Stone, D., Patton, B., & Heen, S. (1999). Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss What Matters Most. New York. Penguin.
A guide offering practical advice and strategies for handling challenging conversations effectively. The book introduces the Three Conversations Framework, emphasizing the importance of addressing facts, emotions, and self-identity. It provides practical communication skills, encourages understanding different perspectives, and explores the role of emotions in conversations. The authors offer problem-solving strategies, highlight the value of feedback for personal growth, and use real-life examples to illustrate their concepts.
- Scott, Susan. (2002). Fierce conversations – achieving success at work and in life, one conversation at a time. New York: Berkley Publishing.
The book provides tools for articulating the impact of actions, engage in authentic dialogues, and use confrontation as a catalyst for positive change. Emphasising the importance of accountability, it serves as a guide for fostering a culture of openness, trust, and collaboration through purposeful and meaningful conversations.
- Smith, A. ( 1776). The Wealth of Nations. W. Strahan & T. Cadell. London.
A seminal work in classical economics. It explores the principles governing the prosperity of nations, emphasizing the invisible hand, free trade, and the role of markets. Smith discusses the benefits of the division of labour, factors contributing to economic growth, and the limited role of government in the economy. He advocates that by allowing individuals to freely pursue their own self-interest in a free market, without government regulation, nations will prosper.
- Taleb, N.N. ( 2007). The Black Swan: The Impact of the Highly Improbable. Random House.
Explores the extreme impact of highly improbable and unpredictable events, termed “Black Swans,” on the world. Taleb argues that these rare and unforeseen occurrences have a profound influence on history, science, finance, and everyday life. Using examples from various domains, he challenges the conventional wisdom of traditional risk assessment and emphasizes the importance of being prepared for the unexpected. His work encourages readers to rethink their tendency to find simplistic explanations for understanding of randomness and uncertainty retrospectively, advocating for a more robust and adaptive approach to navigating a world characterized by unpredictability.
- Taylor, F.W. (1911) The Principles of Scientific Management. Harper & Brothers.
Taylor outlines his theory of scientific management, which aims to improve industrial efficiency and productivity. Taylor emphasizes the systematic study and optimization of work processes to achieve maximum output with minimal resources. He introduces the concept of time and motion studies to analyse tasks scientifically, advocating for the standardization of tools, methods, and job roles. Taylor’s principles prioritize the collaboration between management and workers to ensure a more effective and efficient organization, setting the foundation for modern management practices.
- Thaler, R.H. , Sunstein, C.R. (2008). Nudge: Improving Decisions About Health, Wealth, and Happiness". Yale University Press
Explores the concept of ‘libertarian paternalism,’ suggesting that individuals can be guided toward making better decisions without restricting their freedom of choice. The authors introduce the concept of nudges, drawing on insights from behavioral economics to illustrate how small interventions can have a significant impact on improving decision-making in various aspects of life, including health, finance, and personal well-being. “Nudge” has had a notable influence on policymakers and practitioners interested in designing more effective and humane approaches to decision-making.
- The Arbinger Institute (2000 ). Leadership and Self-Deception. Berrett-Koehler Publishers.
Explores the profound impact of self-deception on leadership and interpersonal relationships. The central concept revolves around the idea that when individuals are trapped in self-deception, they see others as objects rather than as people with their own needs and perspectives. The book argues that this self-deception hinders effective leadership and collaboration. It delves into the importance of recognizing and overcoming one’s own self-deceptive tendencies to build more authentic and empathetic connections with others.
- Tzu, S. (1988). The Art of War. (Cleary, T. Trans.). Shambhala Publications.
Written more than 2,000 years ago as guide for military strategists the book transcends its origins, imparting enduring wisdom applicable to leadership, strategy, and conflict resolution. It emphasises adaptability, understanding both oneself and the opponent, and achieving victory without engaging directly in conflict. The treatise underscores the significance of strategic thinking, flexibility, and effective leadership, offering invaluable insights for navigating challenges across various facets of life. Its enduring relevance is evident in its widespread study and application in diverse fields, including business, sports, and management.
- Watkins, M.D. (2013). The First 90 Days, Harvard Business Review Press. First published 2003
A comprehensive guide for leaders transitioning into new roles. The book provides a roadmap for navigating the critical first three months in a new position, offering insights, strategies, and practical advice to ensure a successful start. Watkins emphasises the importance of understanding the organization’s culture quickly, building relationships, and formulating a clear action plan. The book addresses common challenges that leaders face during transitions, such as managing expectations, gaining credibility, and accelerating their learning curve. Through real-world examples and actionable frameworks, “The First 90 Days” equips leaders with the tools needed to make a positive impact in their new roles and set the stage for long-term success.
- Welch, J., & Bryrne J.A. (2001). Jack: Straight from the Gut. Warner Books.
A first-hand account of Welch’s remarkable life and tenure as the CEO of General Electric (GE) from 1981 to 2001. Welch tells his intensely personal story with his well-known fire and candor from his working-class childhood to his early days in G.E. Plastics to life at the top of the world’s most successful company. And while it chronicles billion-dollar deals and high-stakes corporate standoffs, it is ultimately a story about people-from a man who based his career on demanding only the best from others and from himself. He revolutionised GE’s entire corporate culture with his distinctive, highly personal management style. He shares insights into his leadership philosophy, management style, and the transformative strategies he implemented, which included a unique appreciation for each of his 500 managers, a commitment to an informal yet driven work ethos, and an unwavering endorsement of open communication. Delving into both successes and challenges, it offers readers a candid and personal perspective on leadership, corporate strategy, and the complexities of running a major multinational corporation.
Coaching
- Whitworth, L., Kimsey-House, K. & Sandahl, P. (1998). Co-Active Coaching: New Skills for Coaching People Toward Success in Work and Life, Davies-Black Publishing
- Rock, D. (2001). Personal Best: Step by Step Coaching for Creating the Life You Want. Simon & Schuster
- Rock, D. (2006). Quiet Leadership: Help People Think Better – Don’t Tell Them What to Do! Collins
Interpersonal
- Argyle, M. (1977). The Psychology of Interpersonal Behaviour (2nd ed.) First published 1967. Pelican Books
Involving Others
- Axelrod, R.H., Axelrod, E.M., Beedon J. & Jacobs, R. (2004). You Don’t Have to Do It Alone: How to Involve Others to Get Things Done. Berrett-Koehler Publishers Inc, San Francisco.
Meaning & Purpose
- Frankl, V.E. (2004) Man’s Search For Meaning. Rider
- Maslow, A.H. (1970). Motivation and Personality (2nd ed.) (©1954) Harper & Row.
Strength Based
- Buckingham, M. & Clifton, D.O. (2005). Now Discover Your Strengths: How to Develop Your Talents and Those of the People You Manage. (©2001 Gallup). Pocket Books.
- Buckingham, M. (2007). Go put your Strengths to work: Six Powerful Steps to Achieve Outstanding Performance. Simon & Schuster.
- Lewis, S., Passmore, J. & Cantore, S. (2008). Appreciative Inquiry for Change Management: Using AI to Facilitate Organizational Development. Kogan Page.
Stress
- Van Brakel, L. (2014). The Stress Management Workbook: A Guide to Developing Resilience. Hodder & Stoughton Teach Yourself.
Transactional Analysis
- Berne, E. (1968). Games People Play: The Psychology of Human Relationships. (First published 1964) Penguin.
- Harris, T.A. (1973). I’m OK – You’re OK. First published UK 1970 (©1967, 1968, 1969). Pan Books.