Are you looking to enhance your leadership skills and become a more effective manager? Look no further than these 20 best books about managing people. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or just starting out in a management role, these books offer valuable insights, practical tips, and proven strategies for leading and inspiring your team. From classic titles to modern bestsellers, each book on managing people is packed with wisdom and expertise to help you navigate the complexities of leadership. Dive into these recommended managing people books and unlock the secrets to building a motivated, high-performing team.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Managing People Books
- 2 Dare to Lead
- 3 The Culture Code
- 4 Radical Candor
- 5 The Five Dysfunctions of a Team
- 6 Leaders Eat Last
- 7 Crucial Conversations
- 8 Drive
- 9 The Power of Habit
- 10 The Lean Startup
- 11 The Innovator’s Dilemma
- 12 Thinking, Fast and Slow
- 13 The One Minute Manager
- 14 First, Break All the Rules
- 15 The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
- 16 Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard
- 17 Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter
- 18 The Hard Thing About Hard Things
- 19 The Coaching Habit
- 20 The No Asshole Rule
- 21 The Art of War
- 22 Final Thoughts on Best Managing People Books
- 23
20 Best Managing People Books
Dare to Lead
by Brené Brown
Dare to Lead by Brené Brown is a powerful and insightful book about managing people with courage and vulnerability. Brown, a renowned researcher and storyteller, dives into the essential qualities of effective leadership in today’s rapidly changing world.
She challenges the traditional views of leadership and emphasizes the importance of embracing vulnerability, empathy, and resilience. Through engaging storytelling and extensive research, Brown provides practical strategies for building trust, fostering creativity, and navigating difficult conversations with authenticity.
This book about managing people is a valuable resource for leaders at all levels, from CEOs to front-line managers, seeking to create a positive and inclusive work environment. It offers actionable advice on how to cultivate a culture of courage and accountability within teams and organizations.
Whether you’re a seasoned leader or aspiring to take on a leadership role, Dare to Lead is a must-read for anyone looking to enhance their ability to lead with empathy and courage.
The Culture Code
by Daniel Coyle
The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle is a captivating book on managing people that delves into the secrets of successful organizations. Coyle explores the key principles that create a strong and cohesive culture within groups, whether it’s a sports team, a business, or a community. Through engaging stories and real-world examples, he uncovers the three skills that are essential for building a positive and effective culture: building safety, sharing vulnerability, and establishing purpose. Coyle’s expert research and in-depth analysis provide valuable insights into how leaders can foster a sense of belonging and trust within their teams, ultimately leading to increased collaboration, innovation, and productivity.
Radical Candor
by Kim Scott
Radical Candor by Kim Scott is a compelling book on managing people that offers a refreshing approach to leadership and communication. Scott introduces the concept of radical candor, which encourages leaders to strike a balance between caring personally and challenging directly when it comes to managing their teams. Through engaging storytelling and practical advice, the author provides valuable insights on how to build strong relationships with your team members while also providing honest and constructive feedback.
This book about managing people emphasizes the importance of creating a culture of open communication and trust within an organization. It offers actionable strategies for navigating difficult conversations, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, and ultimately becoming a more effective manager. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out in a management role, Radical Candor provides a wealth of wisdom and actionable takeaways that can help you become a better leader 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 compelling book on managing people that explores the common pitfalls that hinder team success. Lencioni presents a leadership fable centered around a fictional executive team, illustrating the five dysfunctions that plague their performance: absence of trust, fear of conflict, lack of commitment, avoidance of accountability, and inattention to results.
Through this engaging narrative, Lencioni offers practical insights and strategies for managing people and addressing these dysfunctions, emphasizing the importance of trust, healthy conflict, commitment, and accountability in fostering a cohesive and high-performing team. By delving into the interpersonal dynamics and challenges that teams often face, this book about managing people provides valuable lessons for leaders and team members alike.
Whether you’re a seasoned executive or a new team member, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team offers actionable advice for building stronger, more effective teams and achieving lasting success. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in managing people and cultivating a thriving team environment.
Leaders Eat Last
by Simon Sinek
Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek is a captivating book on managing people that explores the concept of true leadership and its impact on organizational success. Sinek delves into the biological and sociological factors that influence human behavior in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of trust, empathy, and a sense of belonging in creating a positive work culture. The book offers valuable insights into how leaders can create a safe and supportive environment for their teams, fostering collaboration, innovation, and overall well-being.
Sinek draws on real-world examples and scientific research to demonstrate the profound impact of effective leadership on employee engagement and productivity. Through compelling storytelling and thought-provoking analysis, Leaders Eat Last provides practical guidance for leaders at all levels, offering a fresh perspective on what it means to truly lead and inspire others. This managing people book is a must-read for anyone seeking to create a thriving and purpose-driven organization.
Crucial Conversations
by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler
Crucial Conversations is a powerful book on managing people that provides readers with the tools to handle high-stakes communication effectively. Authors Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler draw from years of research to offer practical strategies for navigating difficult conversations with confidence and skill.
The book emphasizes the importance of mastering dialogue, fostering mutual respect, and achieving positive results in crucial conversations, which are often pivotal in managing people and relationships. Whether dealing with conflicts at work, addressing sensitive issues with family members, or negotiating with business partners, this book offers valuable insights and techniques for achieving productive outcomes.
With its engaging writing style and real-life examples, Crucial Conversations makes the complex art of managing people more accessible and manageable for readers. This book about managing people is a must-read for anyone seeking to improve their communication skills and build stronger relationships in both their personal and professional lives.
Drive
by Daniel H. Pink
Drive by Daniel H. Pink is a fascinating exploration of motivation and what truly drives us to excel. Pink challenges the traditional notion that rewards and punishments are the key to motivating people. Instead, he argues that autonomy, mastery, and purpose are the real drivers of motivation and performance. Drawing on research from psychology, economics, and neuroscience, Pink presents a compelling case for rethinking our approach to managing people.
This book about managing people is filled with engaging stories and real-world examples that illustrate his points, making it a thought-provoking and practical read for anyone looking to understand what truly motivates individuals. Whether you’re a leader in an organization, a teacher, or a parent, Drive offers valuable insights into how to create an environment that fosters motivation and empowers people to reach their full potential. It’s a must-read for anyone interested in unlocking the true drivers of human performance.
The Power of Habit
by Charles Duhigg
The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg is a groundbreaking book that delves into the science behind habits and how they shape our lives. Duhigg explores the power of habits in individuals, organizations, and societies, and how they can be changed to achieve personal and professional success. This insightful book provides a deep understanding of the psychological and neurological mechanisms behind habit formation, and offers practical strategies for breaking bad habits and creating positive ones.
With real-life examples and compelling case studies, Duhigg demonstrates how habits can be harnessed to improve productivity, health, and relationships. Whether you’re a leader looking to transform your organization or an individual seeking personal growth, this book about managing people offers valuable insights into the nature of habits and how they can be leveraged to achieve lasting change. The Power of Habit is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the power of habits and their impact on our lives.
The Lean Startup
by Eric Ries
The Lean Startup by Eric Ries is a groundbreaking book on managing people that challenges traditional business practices and offers a new approach to entrepreneurship. Ries introduces the concept of the lean startup, which emphasizes rapid iteration, validated learning, and a build-measure-learn feedback loop. He provides practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and established businesses alike, focusing on the importance of testing assumptions, finding a minimum viable product, and adapting to customer feedback. Ries also discusses the value of innovation accounting and the need for continuous innovation in today’s fast-paced, ever-changing market. This book about managing people is a must-read for anyone looking to launch a startup or lead a team in a dynamic and uncertain environment. By embracing the principles of the lean startup, readers can learn how to mitigate risk, increase efficiency, and ultimately build successful, sustainable businesses.
The Innovator’s Dilemma
by Clayton M. Christensen
The Innovator’s Dilemma by Clayton M. Christensen is a groundbreaking book on managing people that explores the challenges faced by established companies when disruptive technologies and innovations emerge in the market. Christensen argues that successful companies often fail to adapt to these disruptions because they are focused on satisfying the needs of their existing customers and are reluctant to invest in technologies that may not yield immediate returns.
By using real-world examples and case studies, Christensen illustrates how well-managed companies can be blindsided by disruptive innovations, ultimately leading to their downfall. He also provides valuable insights into how companies can overcome this dilemma by creating separate entities or divisions to focus on new technologies and markets, and by being open to changing their business models and strategies.
This thought-provoking book about managing people challenges traditional business practices and offers invaluable lessons for leaders and managers navigating the complexities of innovation and change in today’s fast-paced business environment.
Thinking, Fast and Slow
by Daniel Kahneman
Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman is a captivating exploration of the two systems that drive the way we think: the fast, intuitive, and emotional System 1, and the slow, deliberate, and logical System 2. Kahneman, a Nobel Prize-winning psychologist, delves into the cognitive biases and heuristics that influence our decision making, offering valuable insights into human behavior and decision-making processes.
This thought-provoking book on managing people delves into the complexities of the human mind, shedding light on how we make choices and judgments in both our personal and professional lives. With engaging anecdotes and compelling research, Kahneman challenges readers to question their own thinking patterns and consider the impact of cognitive biases on their decision-making abilities.
Thinking, Fast and Slow is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the intricacies of human cognition and behavior. It offers practical implications for leaders, managers, and anyone looking to enhance their understanding of the human mind in the context of managing people.
The One Minute Manager
by Kenneth Blanchard, Spencer Johnson
The One Minute Manager, written by Kenneth Blanchard and Spencer Johnson, is a concise and impactful book on managing people. The authors present their management philosophy through a parable about a young man seeking the secrets of effective leadership. In this engaging story, the One Minute Manager shares three simple techniques for successful management: one-minute goal setting, one-minute praising, and one-minute reprimands. These techniques are designed to be easily implemented and highly effective for improving productivity and morale in the workplace.
The book about managing people emphasizes the importance of clear communication, setting and achieving goals, and providing timely feedback to employees. It offers practical advice on how to build a positive work environment and cultivate a high-performing team. With its straightforward approach and actionable strategies, The One Minute Manager is a valuable resource for anyone in a leadership role or aspiring to be a successful manager.
First, Break All the Rules
by Marcus Buckingham, Curt Coffman
First, Break All the Rules is a groundbreaking book on managing people that challenges conventional wisdom and offers a fresh perspective on how to lead and motivate teams to achieve exceptional results. Written by Marcus Buckingham and Curt Coffman, this insightful book presents a revolutionary approach to understanding and managing people in the workplace.
By drawing on extensive research and real-world examples, the authors delve into the key elements that make great managers stand out and how they break the traditional rules of management to create high-performing teams. They emphasize the importance of focusing on individuals’ strengths and unique talents, rather than trying to fix their weaknesses.
First, Break All the Rules provides valuable insights and practical strategies for leaders and managers to empower their teams, foster a culture of engagement, and drive organizational success. This book about managing people is a must-read for anyone looking to transform their approach to leadership and unleash the full potential of their teams.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People
by Stephen R. Covey
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey is a renowned book on managing people that has transformed the way individuals approach personal and professional effectiveness. Covey presents a holistic approach to success, emphasizing the importance of character ethics and principles in achieving lasting success. The book delves into the seven habits that are key to personal and interpersonal effectiveness, including proactivity, beginning with the end in mind, putting first things first, thinking win-win, seeking first to understand, then to be understood, synergizing, and sharpening the saw. Covey’s timeless advice offers practical and actionable steps for individuals to enhance their leadership skills, communication, and productivity. Through engaging anecdotes and insightful principles, Covey’s book about managing people encourages readers to shift their mindset and embrace a more proactive, principle-centered approach to achieving their goals and fostering meaningful relationships.
Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard
by Chip Heath, Dan Heath
Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard by Chip Heath and Dan Heath is a compelling book on managing people that delves into the psychology of change. Through engaging anecdotes and research-based insights, the authors explore why change is often difficult and provide practical strategies for making it easier. The book introduces the concept of the ‘rider’ and the ‘elephant’ to illustrate the interplay between rational decision-making and emotional behavior, offering a framework for understanding and influencing change at both the individual and organizational levels. With a focus on real-life examples and actionable advice, Switch offers valuable lessons for anyone seeking to lead change initiatives or navigate personal transformations. Whether you’re a manager looking to inspire your team or an individual striving for personal growth, this managing people book provides a roadmap for overcoming resistance and driving successful change. Switch is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of change and learning how to effectively manage people through transition.
Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter
by Liz Wiseman, Greg McKeown
Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter is a groundbreaking book on managing people that challenges traditional leadership methods. Written by Liz Wiseman and Greg McKeown, this book explores the concept of “multipliers” – leaders who amplify the intelligence and capabilities of those around them. These multipliers are contrasted with “diminishers,” who unknowingly suppress the talents and potential of their team members.
Through engaging stories and insightful research, the authors reveal the key traits and practices of multipliers, and provide practical strategies for aspiring leaders to become multipliers themselves. The book emphasizes the importance of creating a collaborative and empowering work environment, where everyone is encouraged to contribute and excel.
Multipliers is a must-read for anyone interested in becoming a more effective leader and maximizing the potential of their team. With its fresh perspective and actionable advice, this managing people book is sure to inspire and transform the way you lead and manage others.
The Hard Thing About Hard Things
by Ben Horowitz
The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz is a compelling and insightful book on managing people. Horowitz, a successful entrepreneur and venture capitalist, shares his experiences and lessons learned from leading and managing companies through difficult times.
Horowitz provides practical advice and strategies for handling tough decisions, managing high-stress situations, and navigating the complex dynamics of leadership. He emphasizes the importance of making difficult choices, facing challenges head-on, and maintaining integrity in the face of adversity.
This book about managing people offers valuable insights into the realities of running a business, dealing with setbacks, and building a resilient and successful team. Horowitz’s candid and no-nonsense approach makes this book a must-read for anyone in a leadership role or aspiring to lead a team. Whether you’re a seasoned executive or a budding entrepreneur, The Hard Thing About Hard Things is a valuable resource for tackling the tough challenges of managing people.
The Coaching Habit
by Michael Bungay Stanier
The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier is a game-changing book on managing people. Stanier offers a fresh approach to leadership and management by focusing on the power of asking the right questions. With practical and easy-to-implement advice, this book challenges traditional management styles and encourages a coaching mindset to bring out the best in your team.
Stanier introduces seven essential questions that will help managers and leaders become more effective in their roles. By mastering the art of asking these powerful questions, readers can shift their focus from providing all the answers to empowering their team members to find their own solutions. This book about managing people offers a valuable framework for building stronger relationships, fostering personal growth, and driving performance improvement within your organization.
Whether you’re a seasoned manager or a new leader looking to enhance your skills, The Coaching Habit provides practical strategies and insights that will transform the way you lead and manage people. It’s a must-read for anyone seeking to create a more engaged and motivated team.
The No Asshole Rule
by Robert I. Sutton
The No Asshole Rule by Robert I. Sutton is a groundbreaking book on managing people that challenges the notion that jerks are worth keeping around in the workplace. Sutton argues that allowing toxic individuals to flourish can have devastating effects on an organization, from decreased productivity to increased turnover and damaged morale. He provides compelling evidence and real-life examples to support his assertion that the costs of tolerating jerks far outweigh any potential benefits they may bring. The book offers practical strategies for implementing a “no asshole rule” in the workplace, including screening out potential jerks during the hiring process and holding existing employees accountable for their behavior. Sutton’s no-nonsense approach and witty writing style make this book about managing people an engaging and thought-provoking read for anyone who has dealt with difficult colleagues or bosses. Whether you’re a seasoned manager or just starting out in your career, this managing people book is a must-read for creating a more positive and productive work environment.
The Art of War
by Sun Tzu
The Art of War is a classic book on managing people, written by the ancient Chinese military strategist Sun Tzu. This timeless masterpiece offers profound insights into the strategy and tactics of warfare, but its principles are equally applicable to the art of managing people in any context. Sun Tzu’s teachings emphasize the importance of understanding and outmaneuvering your opponents, as well as the necessity of adapting to changing circumstances and leveraging your strengths to achieve victory.
Through his strategic wisdom, Sun Tzu provides valuable lessons on leadership, decision-making, and conflict resolution, making this book about managing people a must-read for anyone in a position of authority or seeking to enhance their managerial skills. The Art of War is not just a manual for military commanders, but a timeless guide for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of human interaction and achieve success in the competitive arena of managing people.
Final Thoughts on Best Managing People Books
Managing a team effectively is crucial for any organization’s success, and these 20 best books about Managing People offer valuable insights and practical tips for leaders at all levels. Whether you’re a seasoned manager looking to refine your skills or a new leader seeking guidance, these books provide a wealth of knowledge to help you navigate the complexities of people management. With the wisdom and expertise found in these books, you can enhance your leadership abilities and build a thriving, motivated team.
Which book about Managing People is best?
The best book on Managing People can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- Dare to Lead by Brené Brown,
- The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle,
- Radical Candor by Kim Scott.
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Managing People?
For those looking to learn about Managing People, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- Dare to Lead by Brené Brown,
- The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle,
- Radical Candor by Kim Scott,
- The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni,
- Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek,
- Crucial Conversations by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler,
- Drive by Daniel H. Pink,
- The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg,
- The Lean Startup by Eric Ries,
- The Innovator’s Dilemma by Clayton M. Christensen
These books offer a range of perspectives on Managing People, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books about Managing People?
The best books about Managing People are:
- Dare to Lead by Brené Brown,
- The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle,
- Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman,
- The One Minute Manager by Kenneth Blanchard, Spencer Johnson,
- The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg,
- Crucial Conversations by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, Al Switzler.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Managing People 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 Managing People books of all time?
Choosing the best Managing People books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include
- Dare to Lead by Brené Brown,
- The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle,
- Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek,
- The Power of Habit by Charles Duhigg,
- and Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Managing People and continues to be influential today.