20 best books on being good manager – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you ready to take your leadership skills to the next level? Look no further than these 20 must-read books on being a good manager. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out in your management career, these books offer invaluable insights, practical tips, and inspiring stories to help you become the best leader you can be. From mastering communication and decision-making to building strong teams and fostering a positive work culture, these books cover it all. So, grab a cup of coffee, find a cozy spot, and dive into these books that will transform you into an exceptional manager.


The Culture Code

by Daniel Coyle

The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle is a fascinating guidebook for becoming an exceptional leader. This masterpiece on effective management unravels the secrets behind creating a thriving and successful work environment. Coyle delves into the importance of building a strong team culture and highlights the key elements that contribute to its success. Through captivating stories and in-depth research, this book on being a great manager provides valuable insights and practical strategies for fostering collaboration, trust, and high-performance within any organization.

Radical Candor

by Kim Scott

Radical Candor: A Game-Changing Book for Becoming an Exceptional Leader

Are you yearning to become a formidable force in the realm of management? Look no further! Radical Candor by Kim Scott is the ultimate guide that will equip you with the tools and strategies to transform into an extraordinary leader.

This game-changing book is a must-read for anyone who aspires to be a powerful force in the world of management. It presents a refreshing approach to leadership, emphasizing the importance of being both caring and direct in your communication. Scott introduces us to the concept of “Radical Candor,” which is all about striking the perfect balance between showing kindness and offering honest feedback.

With captivating anecdotes and practical advice, Scott takes us on a journey to discover the secrets of effective leadership. She explores the significance of building strong relationships with your team members and creating an environment where they feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and ideas.

Radical Candor is not just another run-of-the-mill management book; it’s a game-changer. It will inspire you to challenge your preconceived notions of what it means to be a good manager. Scott’s unique approach will empower you to develop a leadership style that brings out the best in others while fostering a culture of trust and growth.

So, whether you’re a seasoned manager looking to enhance your skills or an aspiring leader eager to make your mark, Radical Candor is the book you’ve been waiting for. Get ready to revolutionize your approach to management and become the exceptional leader you were meant to be!

The Five Dysfunctions of a Team

by Patrick Lencioni

The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni is a captivating book that delves into the intricacies of effective teamwork and the role of a skilled leader. If you’re seeking a guide to become a proficient manager, this book is a treasure trove of insights and strategies.

Lencioni takes a unique approach to explore the challenges that hinder teams from reaching their full potential. He presents the story of a fictional executive team, vividly depicting the dynamics, conflicts, and struggles commonly found in organizations. Through this narrative, the author skillfully unveils the five key dysfunctions that impede team success.

From a lack of trust to fear of conflict, avoidance of accountability, resistance to commitment, and inattention to results, Lencioni addresses each dysfunction with clarity and practical advice. He demonstrates how these dysfunctions intertwine and impact the overall team performance, highlighting the pivotal role of the manager in overcoming them.

By emphasizing the importance of building trust, fostering healthy conflict, promoting individual accountability, encouraging commitment, and focusing on collective results, Lencioni provides actionable strategies for managers to transform dysfunctional teams into cohesive, high-performing units.

Written in an engaging and accessible style, this book serves as a valuable resource for both new and experienced managers. Whether you’re looking to enhance your leadership skills or seeking solutions to team challenges, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team offers an insightful roadmap to becoming an exceptional manager.

Drive

by Daniel H. Pink

Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink is a revolutionary book that delves into the science of motivation and how it applies to our personal and professional lives. If you’re looking for a game-changing book about becoming an exceptional leader and fostering motivation in others, this is the one for you.

The Manager’s Path

by Camille Fournier

The Manager’s Path is a compelling book on the art of being an exceptional manager. It serves as a guide for individuals who aspire to become great leaders in their respective fields. Packed with valuable insights and practical advice, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to enhance their management skills.

The Effective Manager

by Mark Horstman

The Effective Manager by Mark Horstman is a must-read for anyone who wants to excel as a leader in their organization. This book is a treasure trove of practical advice, insightful tips, and proven strategies that will help you become a stellar manager.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out in your management career, this book has something for everyone. Horstman dives deep into the essential skills and qualities that make a great manager, offering guidance on everything from setting clear expectations and giving constructive feedback to fostering a positive work environment and building strong relationships with your team.

What sets The Effective Manager apart from other books on the subject is its focus on actionable techniques that you can implement right away. Horstman provides step-by-step instructions and real-world examples that make it easy to apply his advice in your own workplace. Plus, his engaging writing style and relatable anecdotes make this book an enjoyable read from start to finish.

Whether you’re looking to boost your leadership skills, improve team performance, or simply become a more effective manager, The Effective Manager is the perfect guide to help you achieve your goals. Don’t miss out on this invaluable resource – grab a copy today and unlock your full potential as a manager!

The First-Time Manager

by Loren B. Belker

The First-Time Manager by Loren B. Belker is a groundbreaking book on becoming an exceptional leader. Whether you’re new to management or striving to enhance your leadership skills, this book provides invaluable insights and practical advice to help you excel in your role.

High Output Management

by Andrew S. Grove

High Output Management: A Guide to Becoming an Effective Leader

Are you searching for a book on being a good manager that will transform your leadership skills and help you achieve outstanding results? Look no further! High Output Management by Andrew S. Grove is the ultimate guide to becoming an effective leader in any field.

Grove, the former CEO of Intel, shares his wealth of experience and wisdom in this timeless classic. He takes readers on a journey through the essential principles and practices of management, providing practical insights that can be applied to any organization or team.

What sets this book about being a good manager apart from others is its focus on maximizing productivity and output. Grove believes that a manager’s primary responsibility is to achieve results through their team, and he offers invaluable advice on how to do just that.

In High Output Management, Grove emphasizes the importance of effective communication, building and managing teams, and setting goals that align with the organization’s objectives. He provides strategies for identifying and resolving bottlenecks, optimizing processes, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

Whether you are a seasoned manager or just starting your leadership journey, this being a good manager book will equip you with the tools and knowledge to excel in your role. Grove’s practical approach and real-world examples make the concepts easy to understand and put into practice.

High Output Management is not just a book; it’s a roadmap to becoming an extraordinary leader. So, if you’re ready to take your management skills to the next level and achieve exceptional results, dive into this transformative guide today!

The One Minute Manager

by Kenneth Blanchard and Spencer Johnson

The One Minute Manager: Unlocking the Secrets to Being a Great Leader

Are you ready to discover the key to becoming an exceptional leader? Look no further than “The One Minute Manager” by Kenneth Blanchard and Spencer Johnson. This captivating book is a treasure trove of wisdom, providing valuable insights on how to excel in the art of management.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting your journey as a leader, this book offers a refreshing approach to being an effective manager. It emphasizes the importance of simplicity and efficiency, teaching readers how to achieve outstanding results in just minutes.

With its dynamic storytelling and practical advice, “The One Minute Manager” will inspire you to transform your leadership style. By blending timeless principles with innovative techniques, the authors offer a roadmap to success that is both easy to understand and implement.

This book is not your typical dry manual on leadership. Instead, it engages readers with relatable characters and real-life scenarios, making the concepts come alive. You’ll find yourself eagerly turning the pages as you learn the secrets to becoming a highly effective manager.

So, if you’re searching for a book that will empower you to become an exceptional leader, “The One Minute Manager” is the perfect choice. Explore the world of management through the eyes of this remarkable guide and unlock your full potential as a manager.

The Coaching Habit

by Michael Bungay Stanier

The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier is an incredibly insightful and practical book for anyone looking to enhance their skills as a manager or leader. This gem of a book provides a refreshing approach to coaching that will help you become a more effective and impactful leader.

Stanier’s book is not your typical “how to be a good manager” guide. Instead, he introduces a simple yet powerful framework for coaching that can be applied in any professional setting. By focusing on asking the right questions, he teaches you how to empower your team, foster their growth, and ignite their potential.

What sets this book apart is its emphasis on curiosity and listening. Stanier encourages you to resist the urge to jump in with advice and instead, learn to ask questions that will provoke thought and drive meaningful conversations. By adopting this coaching habit, you’ll be able to unlock new perspectives, challenge assumptions, and help your team members find their own solutions.

Stanier’s writing style is engaging and conversational, making it easy to absorb the valuable lessons he offers. He shares practical tips, real-life examples, and even provides scripts to help you implement the coaching habit into your everyday interactions. Whether you’re a seasoned manager or just starting out, this book will undoubtedly equip you with the tools and mindset to become a more effective leader.

If you’re looking for a book about being a good manager that goes beyond traditional management techniques, The Coaching Habit is the perfect choice. Get ready to transform your leadership style and create a more engaged and empowered team!

The New One Minute Manager

by Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson

The New One Minute Manager is a groundbreaking book on the art of effective management. If you’re seeking a guide on how to become a successful leader or a book about being a good manager, then this is the perfect read for you. Written by renowned authors Ken Blanchard and Spencer Johnson, this book offers invaluable insights and practical strategies for anyone looking to excel in their management role.

Whether you’re a seasoned manager or just starting out, The New One Minute Manager provides a fresh perspective on what it takes to be a good manager. Blanchard and Johnson advocate for a simple yet powerful approach that emphasizes clear communication, setting achievable goals, and providing timely feedback.

Through the use of engaging storytelling, the authors take you on a journey alongside a young man who is in search of an effective manager. Along the way, you’ll discover the secrets to building strong relationships with your team, boosting productivity, and fostering a positive work environment.

What sets this book apart is its emphasis on the importance of balancing results with the well-being and development of your employees. The authors highlight the significance of providing praise and recognition when deserved, as well as addressing performance issues in a constructive manner.

If you’re looking for a being good manager book that is easy to read, yet packed with valuable insights, The New One Minute Manager is an excellent choice. With its practical advice and timeless principles, this book will empower you to become the kind of manager that inspires and brings out the best in others.

The Lean Manager

by Michael Ballé and Freddy Ballé

The Lean Manager is a transformative book that offers invaluable insights and practical advice on becoming a highly effective leader in the workplace. It is a must-read for anyone seeking to enhance their skills as a manager and drive positive change within their organization.

This book on being a good manager is written by Michael Ballé and Freddy Ballé, renowned experts in the field of lean management. It explores the principles and practices of lean thinking, a methodology that aims to eliminate waste, improve efficiency, and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

With a refreshing and engaging writing style, the authors provide a comprehensive roadmap for becoming a lean manager. They emphasize the importance of developing a deep understanding of the work being done and actively engaging with employees to identify and solve problems.

Through real-life examples and case studies, the Ballés illustrate how lean management can lead to remarkable results, such as increased productivity, higher customer satisfaction, and improved employee morale. They also address common challenges faced by managers and offer practical strategies for overcoming them.

Overall, this book about being a good manager offers a wealth of knowledge and practical guidance for anyone aspiring to become a lean manager. It is a valuable resource that will empower managers to lead their teams more effectively, drive continuous improvement, and achieve sustainable success.

The Manager’s Book of Questions

by John J. Kador

The Manager’s Book of Questions by John J. Kador is not just another book on being a good manager. It is a treasure trove of insights, strategies, and practical advice that will empower you to become a true leader in the world of business.

With a focus on enhancing your management skills and fostering a positive work environment, this book about being a good manager goes beyond the usual clichés and generic advice. It delves deep into the intricate dynamics of leadership, shedding light on the key principles and techniques that can help you excel in your role.

Whether you are a seasoned manager or just starting out in your career, this being a good manager book offers a comprehensive toolkit to sharpen your decision-making abilities, communicate effectively, motivate your team, and resolve conflicts. Through a series of thought-provoking questions and real-life examples, Kador encourages you to reflect on your own managerial style and challenge conventional wisdom.

Don’t expect a one-size-fits-all approach; instead, this book embraces the diversity of leadership styles and encourages you to find your own unique path. It provides practical insights on building trust, fostering innovation, and navigating the complexities of change, all while maintaining a strong ethical compass.

So, if you are ready to take your management skills to the next level and unlock your full potential as a leader, look no further than The Manager’s Book of Questions. With its engaging writing style and actionable advice, it will not only help you become a better manager but also inspire you to create a workplace that thrives on collaboration, growth, and success.

The Making of a Manager

by Julie Zhuo

The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo is a remarkable book that serves as a guide on how to become an exceptional leader. If you’re searching for a book on being a good manager, this is the ultimate resource you need to have in your arsenal. Zhuo, a former Vice President of Product Design at Facebook, shares her profound insights and experiences, making this book an invaluable asset for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills.

The Art of Being a Brilliant Manager

by Andy Cope, Andy Whittaker, and Darrell Woodman

The Art of Being a Brilliant Manager is a dynamic and captivating book that unveils the secrets to becoming an exceptional leader in today’s fast-paced world. Packed with practical advice and inspiring anecdotes, this book is a treasure trove for anyone who aspires to be a top-notch manager.

Written by renowned authors Andy Cope, Andy Whittaker, and Darrell Woodman, this book is an absolute gem for those seeking to improve their management skills. It offers a fresh perspective on what it takes to be a brilliant manager, emphasizing the importance of positivity, creativity, and effective communication.

But what makes this book truly remarkable is its ability to engage readers on a deep emotional level. It goes beyond the traditional notions of management and explores the role of passion, authenticity, and empathy in leadership. It encourages readers to embrace their unique qualities and leverage them to bring out the best in their teams.

Moreover, The Art of Being a Brilliant Manager is not just a theoretical guide. It provides practical tools and techniques that can be implemented immediately to enhance one’s managerial prowess. From time management strategies to conflict resolution techniques, this book covers it all, making it an invaluable resource for aspiring managers.

So, if you’re looking for a book that goes beyond the typical ‘how-to’ manuals and offers a refreshing take on being a good manager, The Art of Being a Brilliant Manager is your go-to guide. It will empower you to unleash your full potential, inspire your team, and create a positive work environment that breeds success. Get ready to embark on a transformative journey towards becoming an extraordinary leader!

The Manager’s Handbook

by Susan H. Gebelein

The Manager’s Handbook by Susan H. Gebelein is a captivating guide for anyone looking to excel in their role as a leader. This book, often referred to as a “guidebook for effective management,” offers valuable insights and practical advice on how to become a skilled and successful manager.

Gebelein’s book is more than just your average book on being a good manager; it is a treasure trove of knowledge and wisdom. With its clear and concise language, it provides a comprehensive understanding of the skills and qualities required to lead a team with confidence and excellence.

Whether you are a seasoned manager or just starting your journey, this book about being a good manager has something valuable for everyone. Gebelein covers a wide range of topics, including communication, motivation, decision-making, and conflict resolution, to name just a few.

One of the standout features of The Manager’s Handbook is its emphasis on practicality. Gebelein not only offers valuable insights but also provides actionable tips and techniques that can be implemented immediately. This hands-on approach ensures that readers can apply what they learn in real-life situations, making them more effective managers.

If you are seeking a being good manager book that will empower you to lead your team with confidence and achieve outstanding results, The Manager’s Handbook is an essential read. Gebelein’s expertise and experience shine through, making this book a valuable resource for anyone looking to elevate their managerial skills and become an exceptional leader.

The Manager’s Bookshelf

by Jon L. Pierce and John W. Newstrom

The Manager’s Bookshelf is a treasure trove for anyone looking to enhance their skills as a leader and master the art of effective management. This book is a veritable goldmine of wisdom, offering a diverse collection of readings that cover a vast array of topics related to the art of being a good manager. Whether you’re a seasoned executive looking to fine-tune your abilities or a budding manager eager to learn the ropes, this book is an indispensable resource.

Within its pages, you’ll find a rich assortment of essays, case studies, and thought-provoking articles that delve into the intricacies of leadership, communication, decision-making, and more. Each selection has been carefully curated to provide valuable insights and practical advice that can be immediately applied in the workplace.

From renowned authors and experts in the field, such as Peter Drucker, Stephen Covey, and Daniel Goleman, to lesser-known gems waiting to be discovered, The Manager’s Bookshelf offers a comprehensive and diverse range of perspectives. It covers everything from the fundamentals of management to the latest trends and innovations, ensuring that there is something for everyone, regardless of their level of experience.

By exploring this book, you’ll gain valuable insights into how to motivate your team, build effective relationships, navigate complex organizational dynamics, and foster a culture of innovation. You’ll learn to harness the power of emotional intelligence, develop essential communication skills, and cultivate a growth mindset that will propel both you and your team to greater heights of success.

So, whether you’re seeking to become a more effective leader, inspire your team, or simply expand your managerial toolkit, The Manager’s Bookshelf is the ultimate resource. It’s not just another book about being a good manager; it’s a guidebook to becoming an exceptional one.

The Essential Manager’s Handbook

by DK Publishing

The Essential Manager’s Handbook, published by DK Publishing, is the ultimate guide for anyone looking to excel in their role as a manager. This comprehensive book is a treasure trove of knowledge, filled with practical tips, expert advice, and proven strategies for becoming an exceptional leader.

Whether you’re a seasoned manager or just starting out on your journey, this book will equip you with the essential skills and tools needed to effectively navigate the challenges of the modern workplace. From communication and delegation to problem-solving and decision-making, every aspect of being a successful manager is covered in great detail.

More than just a book on being a good manager, The Essential Manager’s Handbook is a roadmap to becoming a visionary leader who inspires and motivates their team to achieve greatness. It delves into the psychology of leadership, exploring how to build strong relationships, foster a positive work culture, and develop the necessary emotional intelligence to handle any situation with grace and confidence.

With its user-friendly format and visually stunning illustrations, this book about being a good manager is not only informative but also incredibly engaging. Each chapter is packed with practical examples, real-life case studies, and interactive exercises that encourage active learning and application of the concepts discussed.

So, whether you’re looking to enhance your managerial skills, climb the corporate ladder, or simply improve your ability to lead and inspire others, The Essential Manager’s Handbook is the go-to resource for becoming an exceptional leader in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing business world.

The Manager’s Guide to HR

by Max Muller

The Manager’s Guide to HR is an insightful book that serves as a comprehensive roadmap for those seeking to excel in the art of effective management. It is a treasure trove of knowledge, offering invaluable guidance on how to become an exceptional leader and master the intricacies of human resources.

If you’re looking for a book on being a good manager, this is the ultimate resource you need. Max Muller, a seasoned expert in the field, shares his expertise and experience to help managers navigate the challenges and complexities of the modern workplace. The book goes beyond mere management techniques, delving deep into the heart of what it means to be a truly exceptional leader.

In this book about being a good manager, Muller emphasizes the importance of understanding and valuing your team members as individuals. He explores how to create a positive work culture, foster employee engagement, and effectively address conflicts and challenges. The Manager’s Guide to HR equips managers with the skills and knowledge necessary to build strong, cohesive teams that thrive in today’s ever-evolving business landscape.

Whether you are a seasoned manager or just starting on your leadership journey, this being a good manager book will undoubtedly transform the way you approach your role. It provides practical strategies, real-world examples, and actionable advice that you can immediately implement to enhance your managerial prowess.

So, if you’re ready to take your management skills to new heights, The Manager’s Guide to HR is the ideal companion. It will empower you to become not just a good manager, but an exceptional one who inspires and motivates their team to achieve greatness.

The Manager’s Book of Decencies

by Steve Harrison

The Manager’s Book of Decencies is a remarkable guidebook for anyone aspiring to become a master of management. Packed with practical tips and insightful advice, this handbook offers an invaluable resource for those seeking to enhance their skills as a leader and create a positive work environment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these ’20 best books about being a good manager’ are essential resources for anyone looking to enhance their leadership and management skills. Whether you’re a seasoned manager or just starting out in your career, these books offer valuable insights, strategies, and practical advice that can help you become a more effective and successful manager. From developing excellent communication skills to mastering the art of delegation, these books cover a wide range of topics that are crucial for any manager to excel in their role. So, pick up a few of these books and start your journey towards becoming a great manager today!