Running a small business is tough, and every entrepreneur can use a little guidance from the experts. Here’s a list of ten essential books that can help you refine your strategies, build better habits, and ultimately grow your business. Whether you’re just starting or looking to scale, these reads are packed with insights to help you succeed.
1. Likeable Social Media: How To Delight Your Customers, Create an Irresistible Brand, & Be Generally Amazing On All Social Networks That Matter by Dave Kerpen and Michelle Greenbaum
This book is your guide to mastering social media for your business. It offers practical tips on creating content that engages your audience and turns followers into customers. Kerpen’s casual, friendly tone makes learning about social media strategy easy and enjoyable.
2. Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts. by Brené Brown
Brené Brown, known for her research on vulnerability and courage, dives into leadership in this book. It’s all about showing up, having difficult conversations, and leading with empathy. Brown’s approach is refreshing, especially if you’re looking to build a business culture that’s as strong as it is successful.
3. Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Message So Customers Will Listen by Donald Miller
Donald Miller teaches you how to craft a clear and compelling brand message that resonates with your audience. This book is like having a storytelling coach at your side, helping you simplify your message and make your business unforgettable.
4. This Is Marketing: You Can’t Be Seen Until You Learn to See by Seth Godin
Seth Godin’s no-nonsense approach to marketing focuses on creating value, serving your audience, and building trust. This book encourages you to think beyond ads and promotions, pushing you to truly understand your market and stand out in meaningful ways.
5. $100M Leads: How to Get Strangers To Want To Buy Your Stuff by Alex Hormozi
Alex Hormozi offers straightforward advice on lead generation that any business owner can apply. His strategies are aimed at getting more people interested in what you’re selling, making this book a must-read for anyone looking to boost sales without complicated tactics.
6. Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear
James Clear’s bestselling book isn’t just about habits; it’s about transformation. Clear breaks down the science of habit-building into simple, actionable steps that can help you improve every area of your life, including your business. It’s a powerful tool for anyone looking to make small changes that lead to big results.
7. The 12 Week Year: Get More Done in 12 Weeks than Others Do in 12 Months by Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington
If you’re looking to supercharge your productivity, this book is your go-to. The 12 Week Year challenges the traditional annual planning process and instead focuses on executing key tasks in 12-week cycles. It’s all about setting clear goals and achieving them faster.
8. The Genius Zone: The Breakthrough Process to End Negative Thinking and Live in True Creativity by Gay Hendricks, Ph.D.
Gay Hendricks encourages you to step into your “Genius Zone,” a state where you’re fully using your strengths and creativity. This book is perfect for entrepreneurs who feel stuck or bogged down by negative thinking. It’s a great reminder that mindset is everything when running a business.
9. Mindset: Changing The Way You Think To Fulfil Your Potential by Dr. Carol Dweck
Carol Dweck’s groundbreaking work on the “growth mindset” is essential reading for anyone in business. She explains how shifting your mindset from fixed to growth can open up new possibilities, enhance your resilience, and help you achieve more than you thought possible.
10. Measure What Matters: OKRs: The Simple Idea that Drives 10x Growth by John Doerr
John Doerr introduces the concept of OKRs (Objectives and Key Results), a goal-setting framework used by companies like Google and Intel. This book shows you how to set clear, measurable goals that keep you and your team focused and aligned, driving growth in a structured way.
