Must-Read Business Books

I recently saw a meme on Facebook that summed up my relationship with books. It was something along the lines of “buying books and reading books are two entirely different hobbies”. And I for one am very guilty of this. I love buying books, especially business & self-help style books, and I hope that each one will have the answers to the meaning of life (or something like that). But the reality is, I very rarely finish a book. It has to be really good in order for me to make time in my schedule to actually sit down and read it. But there are a few books that I have read that have really made a difference in how I approach my business (and life). These must-read business books are all books that have actually made me step back and re-evaluate my processes & strategies, and have had results!

Must-Read Business Books

Building A Story Brand – Donald Miller

This book is one of the best books I’ve read since starting my business in 2015. It was so good, I read most of it within 24-hours and made a whole load of notes (something I rarely do with books). The book focuses on how good marketing is like a story, in which our customers are the hero, and it breaks down how to create a brand message and a marketing strategy that will resonate with your customers and inspire them to take action (i.e. to book you).

How To Win Friends & Influence People In The Digital Age – Dale Carnegie & Associates

This updated version of the original book is full of important advice in how to win friends and influence people, by creating a lasting impression, being engaging, and gaining and maintaining someone’s trust. For me, the most valuable section of the book are the chapters on dealing with conflict and avoiding arguments. Whilst a lot of the points might seem blindingly obvious, I found it especially good to be reminded of them now and again.

Start With Why – Simon Sinek

You’ve almost certainly seen his TED talk which went viral, but the book is definitely worth a read too. It talks in more depth about why (and how) some people inspire others to take action while others fall short. And it all comes down to one thing “their WHY”. Customers buy from businesses that share their views & ideals.

This Is Marketing – Seth Godin

An awesome book about marketing that’s super accessible and has lots of things you can action right away. If you find marketing broad and overwhelming, this book can help give you some great ideas of where to start.

The E-Myth Revisited – Michael E. Gerber

How to create a business that can run without you and systems that create a seamless customer experience. If you feel like a slave to your business or your goals is to expand and hire a team, read this book.

Profit First – Mike Michalowicz

This is a must-read for talking about money and finances – especially if you’re not yet paying yourself a salary. Profit First can be pretty sobering when you take the time to work out the figures and implement it into your business, but after the initial shock, you’ll be so much more empowered over your business finances.

Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion – Robert B. Cialdini

Understanding what influences people to make decisions and agree with you. It explains some of the sales tactics many of us hate and why they work. A great read for when you know you need to make money but you hate the idea of selling.

Superfans – Pat Flynn

Another book on marketing, but with a difference. Superfans is all about how to create an army of loyal fans who are cheerleaders for your business. Not only does it give you ideas for great marketing strategies, you’ll totally up-level your client experience at the same time.

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase using this link. I have read all of the books I mention in this post, and personally recommend them all.