20 Being Manager Best Books to Read

Are you a new manager looking for guidance on how to navigate the challenges of leadership? Or perhaps you’re a seasoned leader seeking fresh insights and strategies to enhance your management skills. Look no further! In this article, we’ve curated a list of the 20 best books on being a manager that will provide you with valuable perspectives, practical tips, and proven techniques to excel in your role. Whether you’re looking to improve communication, inspire your team, or effectively handle difficult situations, these being manager books offer invaluable wisdom to help you become a successful and impactful leader.

20 Best Being Manager Books

The Manager’s Path

by Camille Fournier

The Manager’s Path by Camille Fournier is a comprehensive guide for those navigating the challenging and rewarding journey of leadership in the tech industry. This insightful book delves into the various stages of a manager’s career, providing valuable advice and practical strategies for success at each level. Fournier draws from her extensive experience as a tech executive to offer valuable insights on topics such as team dynamics, communication, decision-making, and career development. The book offers a roadmap for those looking to transition from an individual contributor to a manager, and then to a leader of leaders. With its practical wisdom and real-world examples, The Manager’s Path is an essential resource for anyone seeking to thrive in a leadership role in the fast-paced and ever-evolving tech industry. Whether you’re a seasoned manager or aspiring to take on a leadership role, this book about being a manager will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to succeed in your career.

Radical Candor

by Kim Scott

Radical Candor by Kim Scott is a compelling book on being a manager that offers a refreshing approach to leadership. Through personal anecdotes and actionable insights, Scott emphasizes the importance of balanced feedback and genuine communication with your team. She introduces the concept of ‘radical candor’ – the idea of caring personally while challenging directly – as the key to effective leadership. Scott’s book about being a manager provides practical guidance on how to build strong relationships with your employees, create a culture of open dialogue, and ultimately drive results. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or a new manager, Radical Candor offers valuable lessons on how to cultivate a positive and productive work environment. If you’re looking for a being manager book that encourages honesty, empathy, and growth, Radical Candor is an essential read for anyone in a leadership role.

The First-Time Manager

by Loren B. Belker

The First-Time Manager by Loren B. Belker is a comprehensive guide for anyone stepping into a leadership role for the first time. This insightful book on being a manager provides practical advice on how to navigate the challenges of managing a team, from communication and motivation to decision-making and problem-solving. Belker draws on his extensive experience in management development to offer valuable tips and strategies for new managers to build strong relationships with their team members and lead with confidence. With its easy-to-understand language and real-life examples, this book about being a manager is an essential resource for anyone looking to develop their leadership skills and excel in their new role. Whether you’re a recent graduate or a seasoned professional transitioning into a management position, The First-Time Manager is a must-read for anyone looking to thrive in their role as a leader.

High Output Management

by Andrew S. Grove

High Output Management by Andrew S. Grove is a classic book on being a manager, written by one of the most influential figures in Silicon Valley. Grove, the former CEO of Intel, provides practical and insightful advice on how to effectively manage and lead teams to achieve high levels of productivity and success. The book is filled with valuable strategies and principles for being a successful manager, from setting goals and priorities to making tough decisions and managing performance.

What sets High Output Management apart is its focus on the human side of management, emphasizing the importance of understanding and motivating people to achieve exceptional results. Grove’s writing is clear and concise, making complex management concepts easy to understand and apply in real-world scenarios. Whether you’re a seasoned manager looking to sharpen your skills or a new manager seeking guidance, this book about being a manager is an essential read for anyone looking to excel in a leadership role.

The Effective Executive

by Peter F. Drucker

The Effective Executive by Peter F. Drucker is a classic book on being a manager and achieving success in the corporate world. Drucker offers practical insights and valuable advice for managers looking to enhance their effectiveness and productivity. He emphasizes the importance of managing oneself, time, and priorities in order to make a meaningful impact within an organization.

Drucker’s book about being a manager outlines key principles for effective decision-making, time management, and leadership. He argues that effective executives must focus on leveraging their strengths, making the right decisions, and delivering results. With its timeless wisdom and actionable strategies, this being manager book is a must-read for anyone looking to excel in a managerial role and drive organizational success.

The One Minute Manager

by Kenneth Blanchard and Spencer Johnson

The One Minute Manager by Kenneth Blanchard and Spencer Johnson is a popular book on being a manager that offers practical advice for effective leadership. The book presents a simple, yet powerful approach to managing people in just one minute. Through a fictional story, the authors introduce readers to the three secrets of One Minute Management: one minute goals, one minute praising, and one minute reprimands. This being manager book emphasizes the importance of setting clear goals, providing immediate feedback, and addressing performance issues promptly.

Readers will find this book about being a manager to be a quick and insightful read, filled with actionable strategies that can be easily implemented in a variety of workplace settings. The practical tips and techniques presented in The One Minute Manager can help both new and experienced managers improve their leadership skills and create a more positive and productive work environment.

The Five Dysfunctions of a Team

by Patrick Lencioni

The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni is a powerful book about the challenges that teams face and how to overcome them. Lencioni presents a leadership fable that follows the story of a struggling executive who is tasked with turning around a dysfunctional team. Through this engaging narrative, the author highlights the five key dysfunctions that can derail a team’s success: absence of trust, fear of conflict, lack of commitment, avoidance of accountability, and inattention to results.

This insightful book on being manager provides practical strategies and tools for leaders to address these dysfunctions and build a cohesive, high-performing team. Lencioni’s approach is both thought-provoking and actionable, offering valuable lessons for anyone responsible for leading a team. Whether you are a seasoned executive or a new manager, this book about being manager will equip you with the knowledge and skills to create a positive and productive team environment. With its relatable storytelling and actionable insights, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team is an essential read for anyone striving to be an effective leader.

The Manager’s Book of Questions

by John Kador

The Manager’s Book of Questions by John Kador is a valuable resource for anyone in a leadership position or aspiring to be one. This insightful book is designed to help individuals develop their managerial skills and become more effective leaders in their organizations. Packed with thought-provoking questions, it prompts readers to think critically about various aspects of their roles as managers, from decision-making and problem-solving to team dynamics and communication.

Readers will find themselves engaged in a journey of self-discovery as they work through the book, gaining a deeper understanding of their strengths and weaknesses as leaders. The Manager’s Book of Questions is not just a passive read, but a practical tool that encourages active participation and reflection. With its wealth of valuable insights and practical exercises, this book is an indispensable resource for anyone looking to enhance their managerial abilities and make a positive impact in their professional lives.

The Coaching Habit

by Michael Bungay Stanier

The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier is a practical and insightful book on effective leadership and coaching in the workplace. It provides a fresh perspective on the role of a manager, encouraging a more coaching-based approach to leadership. Stanier emphasizes the power of asking the right questions to empower and develop your team, rather than providing all the answers as a traditional manager might do. This book is perfect for anyone looking to improve their coaching skills and become a more effective leader.

The Making of a Manager

by Julie Zhuo

The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo is a comprehensive guide for anyone who is stepping into a leadership role or aspiring to become a manager. This book offers practical advice, real-life stories, and valuable insights on the challenges and rewards of leading a team. Whether you’re a new manager or an experienced one, Zhuo’s book provides valuable lessons on communication, decision-making, team building, and other essential skills for effective leadership. The author draws from her own experiences as a manager at Facebook, offering relatable and actionable advice for anyone navigating the complexities of managing a team. The Making of a Manager is a must-read for anyone looking to excel in their role as a leader and gain a deeper understanding of what it takes to be an effective manager.

The Manager’s Handbook

by Susan H. Gebelein

The Manager’s Handbook by Susan H. Gebelein is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to excel in a leadership role. This book on being a manager provides valuable insights and practical advice on various aspects of management, including communication, decision-making, team building, and conflict resolution. Gebelein’s engaging writing style and real-world examples make this book about being a manager an essential resource for both new and experienced leaders. Whether you’re a seasoned manager or aspiring to become one, this being manager book offers a wealth of strategies and tools to help you navigate the challenges of leadership and achieve success in your role. Packed with actionable tips and strategies, The Manager’s Handbook is a must-read for anyone looking to enhance their management skills and become an effective and influential leader.

The Manager’s Bookshelf

by Jon L. Pierce and John W. Newstrom

The Manager’s Bookshelf by Jon L. Pierce and John W. Newstrom is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to enhance their skills as a leader in the workplace. This book on being a manager offers a curated selection of essential readings that cover a wide range of topics, from communication and decision-making to team building and performance management. The authors provide insightful commentary and practical applications for each recommended book, making it a valuable resource for both new and experienced managers alike.

With its emphasis on continuous learning and professional development, this book about being a manager serves as a vital tool for those seeking to improve their leadership abilities and create a positive impact within their organizations. Whether you’re looking to hone your management skills or gain a deeper understanding of effective leadership practices, The Manager’s Bookshelf offers a wealth of knowledge and guidance to help you succeed in your role as a manager.

The No Asshole Rule

by Robert I. Sutton

The No Asshole Rule by Robert I. Sutton is a groundbreaking book on being a manager and creating a positive work environment. Sutton argues that toxic behavior from employees can have a detrimental impact on an organization, leading to decreased productivity, morale, and overall success. He provides practical advice on how to identify and effectively deal with difficult personalities in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of enforcing a “no asshole rule” to maintain a healthy and respectful culture. Through real-life examples and research-based insights, Sutton offers valuable strategies for leaders to promote civility and collaboration, ultimately fostering a more harmonious and productive work environment. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or a first-time manager, this book about being a manager is an essential guide for anyone looking to cultivate a more positive and respectful workplace.

The Manager’s Dilemma

by Jesse Sostrin

The Manager’s Dilemma by Jesse Sostrin is a thought-provoking book on being a manager that delves into the complexities and challenges of leadership. Sostrin offers insightful strategies and practical advice for navigating the dynamic and ever-changing landscape of the modern workplace. This book about being a manager is a valuable resource for both new and experienced leaders, as it addresses common dilemmas and provides actionable solutions for enhancing team performance and driving organizational success.

Sostrin’s engaging writing style and real-world examples make this being manager book a compelling read that will resonate with anyone in a position of leadership. Whether you’re struggling with decision-making, team dynamics, or organizational change, The Manager’s Dilemma offers a fresh perspective and actionable insights to help you thrive in your role as a leader. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills and effectively navigate the challenges of being a manager.

The Manager’s Guide to HR

by Max Muller

The Manager’s Guide to HR by Max Muller is a comprehensive resource for anyone in a leadership role. This book on being a manager covers all the essential aspects of human resources management, providing practical advice and strategies for handling employee relations, performance management, and recruitment. Muller’s writing style is engaging and easy to understand, making it a valuable tool for both new and experienced managers. The book about being a manager is filled with real-world examples and case studies, offering valuable insights into navigating the complexities of managing a team. Whether you’re looking to improve your leadership skills, enhance your understanding of HR processes, or simply seeking a practical guide to being a manager, this being manager book is an indispensable resource that will help you effectively manage your team and create a positive work environment.

The Manager’s Book of Decencies

by Steve Harrison

The Manager’s Book of Decencies by Steve Harrison is a thoughtful and practical guide for anyone in a managerial role. This book on being a manager is packed with valuable insights and actionable strategies for leading with integrity, empathy, and respect. Harrison emphasizes the importance of creating a positive work environment, fostering open communication, and treating employees with fairness and kindness. With real-life examples and relatable anecdotes, this book about being a manager offers a refreshing perspective on effective leadership. Whether you’re a seasoned manager or just starting out in a leadership position, The Manager’s Book of Decencies provides valuable lessons on how to cultivate a positive and productive workplace culture. If you’re looking for a being manager book that challenges traditional management norms and encourages a more compassionate approach to leadership, then this is the book for you.

The Effective Manager

by Mark Horstman

The Effective Manager by Mark Horstman is a comprehensive guide for anyone looking to enhance their skills as a leader and improve their effectiveness in a managerial role. This book on being a manager provides practical strategies and actionable advice for both new and experienced managers, covering topics such as communication, team building, performance management, and decision-making. Horstman shares valuable insights based on his years of experience in management and provides real-world examples to illustrate his points. The book about being a manager is written in a clear and engaging style, making it accessible to readers from all backgrounds. Whether you’re looking to sharpen your leadership abilities or cultivate a more productive work environment, The Effective Manager offers valuable guidance and strategies to help you succeed in your role.

Leadership and Self-Deception: Getting Out of the Box

by The Arbinger Institute

Leadership and Self-Deception: Getting Out of the Box by The Arbinger Institute is a transformative book about understanding and overcoming self-deception in the context of leadership. This insightful book provides readers with a fresh perspective on how self-deception can hinder our ability to lead effectively and build successful relationships within a team or organization. Through a compelling story, the book explores the concept of being “in the box” and how it impacts our interactions with others. It offers practical advice and tools for recognizing and overcoming self-deception to become a more effective leader.

With its engaging narrative and relatable insights, Leadership and Self-Deception is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their leadership skills and create a more positive and productive work environment. Whether you’re a seasoned manager, a new supervisor, or someone aspiring to a leadership role, this book about being a manager will provide valuable guidance for identifying and overcoming the barriers to effective leadership.

Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High

by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler

Crucial Conversations is a must-read for anyone in a leadership role, offering invaluable tools for navigating high-stakes discussions. Written by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler, this book provides practical advice on how to handle difficult conversations with finesse and effectiveness. Whether you’re a supervisor, executive, or team leader, the insights shared in this book will help you become a more adept communicator and decision-maker.

With a focus on crucial conversations in the workplace, the authors delve into the complexities of managing emotions, opinions, and goals during tense discussions. The book provides strategies for fostering open dialogue, reaching mutual understanding, and achieving positive outcomes in challenging situations. By mastering the techniques outlined in Crucial Conversations, you’ll be better equipped to lead your team, resolve conflicts, and drive positive change in your organization.

So if you’re seeking to enhance your skills as a leader and improve your ability to navigate tough conversations, this book about being a manager is an essential addition to your reading list.

Managing Oneself

by Peter F. Drucker

Managing Oneself by Peter F. Drucker is a powerful and thought-provoking book that delves into the key principles of self-management and personal effectiveness. This insightful book is not just a typical book about being a manager, but rather a guide to understanding oneself and maximizing personal potential in any role.

Drucker emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and understanding one’s strengths, weaknesses, and values. He also stresses the significance of taking responsibility for one’s own actions and decisions, as well as the necessity of continuous learning and adaptation in an ever-changing work environment.

Through practical advice and real-life examples, Drucker offers valuable insights on how individuals can cultivate their strengths, establish effective relationships, and achieve their goals. This book is relevant for anyone seeking to enhance their personal and professional effectiveness, whether they are in a formal management position or not. Managing Oneself is a timeless and essential read for anyone looking to excel in their career and personal life.

Final Thoughts on Best Being Manager Books

In conclusion, these 20 best books about being a manager offer valuable insights, practical advice, and proven strategies for anyone looking to excel in a managerial role. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out, these books provide the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the challenges of management and achieve success. From communication and team building to decision-making and conflict resolution, these resources cover a wide range of topics essential for effective leadership. So, whether you’re looking to enhance your management skills or seeking inspiration to become a better leader, these books are a must-read for anyone in a managerial position.

Which book about Being Manager is best?

The best book on Being Manager can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. The Manager’s Path by Camille Fournier,
  2. Radical Candor by Kim Scott,
  3. The First-Time Manager by Loren B. Belker.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Being Manager?

For those looking to learn about Being Manager, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. The Manager’s Path by Camille Fournier,
  2. Radical Candor by Kim Scott,
  3. The First-Time Manager by Loren B. Belker,
  4. High Output Management by Andrew S. Grove,
  5. The Effective Executive by Peter F. Drucker,
  6. The One Minute Manager by Kenneth Blanchard and Spencer Johnson,
  7. The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni,
  8. The Manager’s Book of Questions by John Kador,
  9. The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier,
  10. The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo

These books offer a range of perspectives on Being Manager, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about Being Manager?

The best books about Being Manager are:

  • The Manager’s Path by Camille Fournier,
  • Radical Candor by Kim Scott,
  • The Manager’s Handbook by Susan H. Gebelein,
  • The Manager’s Bookshelf by Jon L. Pierce and John W. Newstrom,
  • The Manager’s Book of Questions by John Kador,
  • The One Minute Manager by Kenneth Blanchard and Spencer Johnson.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Being Manager are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Being Manager books of all time?

Choosing the best Being Manager books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • The Manager’s Path by Camille Fournier,
  • Radical Candor by Kim Scott,
  • The Effective Executive by Peter F. Drucker,
  • The Manager’s Book of Questions by John Kador,
  • and The Manager’s Handbook by Susan H. Gebelein.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Being Manager and continues to be influential today.