New Managers Should Read These 10 Books

Have you recently been abruptly placed in the position of managing a team and feel completely lost and confused on what to do first? There is little doubt that taking on a managerial role for the first time is an enormous leap, rife with joy and difficulty. Becoming a successful leader isn’t something you can learn from a handbook, but there are a number of great books on management that can help you along the way.

For managers, especially those who are just beginning out, this article will highlight ten books that make for valuable reading. Fundamental concepts and more sophisticated tactics for leading teams to victory are covered in these must-read books for new managers.

1. Spencer Johnson and Ken Blanchard’s The New One Minute Manager

This updated version of this timeless business classic is a straightforward read containing tremendous insight. This is a must-read for any new boss because it incorporates old-fashioned management ideas with more up-to-date situations. You will discover effective methods for empowering your team, setting clear goals, and providing actionable feedback.

2. Marcus Buckingham and Curt Coffman’s First Break All the Rules: What the World’s Greatest Managers Do Differently

This book questions traditional assumptions regarding management while concentrating on several unconventional strategies used by successful executives, building on extensive research from Gallup. It provides practical guidance on how to accomplish outstanding results via talent management and emphasizes the import of putting emphasis on one’s strengths instead of one’s shortcomings.

3. Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts Brené Brown

For new managers looking to develop a daring leadership style, Brené Brown’s book is a must-read. In Dare to Lead, the author explores how emotional intelligence, trust, and vulnerability are essential elements that define successful teams. This is a great book for rookie managers because Brown has an engaging writing style as well as compelling research.

4. Andrew S. Grove’s High Output Management

High Output Management, developed by Andrew S. Grove, a former CEO of Intel, presents an in-depth examination of the principles of efficient team and organizational management. Learn practical ideas from Grove’s focus on scalable procedures, effective meeting structures, and measurable outputs to drive growth as a new manager—especially if you’re striving for operational excellence!

5. Simon Sinek’s “Leaders Eat Last:” The Reasons Some Teams Pull Together While Others Don’t

The idea of servant leadership is explored in Leaders Eat Last by the esteemed author and motivational speaker Simon Sinek. To provide an environment for employees to achieve their goals, this book emphasizes the importance of creating a secure and trustworthy workplace. If you want to know what makes a team work well together and how to encourage an environment where everyone pitches in, explore Sinek’s book.

5. Michael D. Watkins’s The First 90 Days: Proven Strategies for Getting Up to Speed Faster and Smarter

The First 90 Days is a strategic framework that can help you transition into a managerial post and hit the ground running. Making an easy transition is easier said than done, but Michael D. Watkins lays out the essentials for managers, including how to attain early results and establish productive relationships. For new managers who want to create an impact right away, this book is a must-read.

7. Julie Zhuo’s The Making of a Manager: What to Do When Everyone Looks to You

Former Facebook VP of product design Julie Zhuo writes in The Making of a Manager about her personal experiences in the industry and includes practical recommendations that stem from what she has learned. Zhuo provides new managers with accessible and practical advice for their first year on the job, addressing topics including leading one-on-one meetings and providing constructive criticism.

8. Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler’s Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High

Crucial Conversations equips readers with the skills they need to confidently navigate difficult conversations, which are essential for successful leadership. This book is a must-read for managers who want to improve their interpersonal communication skills. The authors offer techniques to keep the lines of communication open, decrease conflict, and strengthen relationships.

9. Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity by Kim Scott

Ex-Google and Apple executive Kim Scott discusses the idea of Radical Candor, which emphasizes the value of caring about people while dealing with them directly. If you want to know how to develop cherished connections among your team, when to give honest criticism, and how to encourage open communication, this book is for you.

10. Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink

It is essential for a manager to know what motivates their staff. Daniel H. Pink dives into the science of motivation in his book Drive, demonstrating the ineffectiveness of conventional incentive-based systems. He also stresses the importance of purpose, autonomy, and mastery as sources of intrinsic motivation. For leaders who want to know how to make their teams more engaged and motivated, this book is a gold mine of information.

Your Journey

You may feel equal parts excited and terrified as you set out on your path as a new manager. If you are a new manager looking to build a strong foundation and become a successful leader, these top books will take you there. These preeminent management books will prove to be indispensable assets, whether your objective is to enhance your communication abilities, comprehend the intricacies of team dynamics, or master the art of motivation.

If you want to be a great leader and motivate your team to great things, study these books. They should be mandatory reading for new managers. The journey to being a great manager starts with a dedication to improvement and a need for knowledge, therefore make sure to put effort into your growth.