20 best books on successful women in business – 2023 reading list & recommendations

If you’re looking for inspiration and guidance from the most powerful and accomplished women in the business world, then you’re in luck. We’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books on successful women in business that will not only give you a fascinating glimpse into the lives of these extraordinary individuals but also provide invaluable lessons and strategies for achieving your own professional goals. From memoirs to leadership manuals, these books offer a diverse range of perspectives and insights from some of the most influential women in the corporate world. So, grab a cup of coffee and get ready to be inspired!


Contents

Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead

by Sheryl Sandberg

Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg is an empowering book that delves into the challenges and triumphs of women in the workplace. Sandberg, the COO of Facebook, offers valuable insights and advice for women who aspire to succeed in their careers. This book serves as a guide for those who want to break through the glass ceiling and become leaders in their respective fields. Sandberg discusses various societal and internal obstacles that women often face, while also providing actionable strategies to overcome them. Through personal anecdotes and research-backed data, she dismantles the stereotypes and biases that hold women back from realizing their full potential. Lean In is not just a book about successful women in business; it is a call to action for women to embrace their ambition, seek out opportunities, and support one another on the path to success. Whether you are a young professional or a seasoned executive, this book is a must-read for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of the modern workplace and shatter the barriers that limit women’s progress.

Becoming

by Michelle Obama

Becoming is an extraordinary memoir that delves into the life of Michelle Obama, an inspiring figure who has become a symbol of strength, resilience, and empowerment. This captivating book takes readers on a journey through the experiences and challenges that shaped the remarkable woman she is today.

With its compelling narrative and intimate storytelling, Becoming offers an intimate glimpse into Michelle Obama’s childhood on the South Side of Chicago, her academic achievements, and her professional endeavors. It explores her role as a mother and the complexities of being the First Lady of the United States.

While not solely focused on the world of business, Becoming highlights the qualities and characteristics that are often associated with successful women in business. Michelle Obama’s determination, ambition, and ability to overcome adversity are traits that resonate with women striving to achieve their goals in any field.

This powerful memoir serves as a source of inspiration for anyone looking to navigate their own path to success. It reminds readers that success is not always a linear journey, and that the obstacles faced along the way can ultimately shape and define one’s character.

Becoming is a testament to the power of authenticity, resilience, and self-belief. It is a must-read for anyone seeking motivation and insight into the lives of successful women, offering a glimpse into the personal and professional journey of one of the most influential figures of our time.

Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts.

by Brené Brown

Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts.

Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts.

Are you ready to unleash your inner leader and make a meaningful impact in the world of business?

If you’re searching for a book on successful women in business, look no further than Brené Brown’s Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts. This empowering read dives deep into the qualities and skills necessary for effective leadership, especially for women who want to thrive in the business world.

Brown, a renowned research professor, bestselling author, and TED speaker, explores the power of vulnerability, courage, and empathy in the workplace. Drawing from her extensive research and personal experiences, she provides valuable insights and practical strategies for overcoming obstacles and becoming a courageous leader.

This book about successful women in business challenges conventional notions of leadership and encourages readers to embrace their authentic selves. Brown emphasizes the importance of wholeheartedness, resilience, and trust-building, fostering environments where everyone can thrive and contribute their best work.

Through compelling stories and thought-provoking exercises, Dare to Lead inspires readers to step outside of their comfort zones, engage in tough conversations, and create workplaces that value inclusivity, innovation, and growth. It offers a roadmap for developing the skills necessary to lead with integrity, empathy, and confidence.

If you’re ready to unlock your leadership potential and make a positive impact in the business world, Dare to Lead: Brave Work. Tough Conversations. Whole Hearts. is the perfect companion on your journey. Join the ranks of successful women in business who are changing the game and paving the way for a new era of leadership.

Get ready to dare, to lead, and to transform your work and your life!

The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World

by Melinda Gates

The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World is an inspiring book about the extraordinary power and potential of women to bring about positive change in our society. Melinda Gates, a renowned philanthropist and advocate for women’s rights, shares her personal journey and experiences working towards gender equality.

This captivating book delves into the lives of successful women in business, exploring their stories of resilience, determination, and triumph. Through her powerful storytelling, Gates highlights the incredible achievements of women from diverse backgrounds and industries, showcasing their contributions to the world.

In this empowering book about successful women in business, Gates emphasizes the critical role of gender equality in creating a more just and prosperous society. She explores the barriers that women face, including discrimination and lack of access to education and healthcare, and provides valuable insights on how we can work together to overcome these challenges.

With her compassionate and compelling writing style, Gates invites readers to reflect on their own privileges and biases, and encourages them to take action to uplift and empower women around the world. This book is a powerful call to action, inspiring readers to be agents of change and champions for gender equality.

Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a passionate advocate for women’s rights, or simply someone seeking inspiration, The Moment of Lift is a must-read successful women in business book. It will leave you feeling motivated and empowered to make a positive impact in the world and join the movement towards a more equitable future.

Option B: Facing Adversity, Building Resilience, and Finding Joy

by Sheryl Sandberg and Adam Grant

Option B: Facing Adversity, Building Resilience, and Finding Joy is a powerful book that delves into the experiences of successful women in business and how they have overcome adversity to find happiness and success. Co-authored by Sheryl Sandberg, the Chief Operating Officer of Facebook, and Adam Grant, a renowned psychologist, this book provides valuable insights and practical advice for anyone facing challenges or setbacks in their personal or professional lives.

The Grit Factor: Courage, Resilience, and Leadership in the Most Male-Dominated Organization in the World

by Shannon Huffman Polson

The Grit Factor is an inspiring and empowering book that delves deep into the world of successful women in business. Author Shannon Huffman Polson takes readers on a captivating journey through her own experiences as one of the first women to fly Apache attack helicopters in the U.S. Army, exploring the unique challenges and triumphs that come with being a woman in the most male-dominated organization in the world.

Through her riveting storytelling, Polson highlights the qualities of courage, resilience, and leadership that have enabled her and other women to thrive in environments traditionally dominated by men. She shares powerful anecdotes and lessons learned from her military career, offering valuable insights and practical advice for women navigating their own paths to success.

This book is not just a celebration of the achievements of successful women in business; it is a call to action for all women to embrace their inner grit and strive for greatness in spite of the obstacles they may face. Polson’s compelling narrative serves as a reminder that with determination and a strong sense of purpose, women can break through barriers and shatter glass ceilings.

Whether you are a woman seeking inspiration and guidance in your professional journey, or someone interested in understanding the unique experiences of successful women in male-dominated industries, The Grit Factor is a must-read. Polson’s refreshing perspective and powerful storytelling make this book a standout in the genre of books about successful women in business.

The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance—What Women Should Know

by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman

The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance—What Women Should Know is a captivating book that delves into the world of successful women in business. Written by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman, this empowering read explores the importance of confidence for women and provides insights on how to cultivate it.

With a perfect blend of scientific research and personal anecdotes, the authors shed light on the unique challenges women face when it comes to confidence. They uncover the societal and cultural factors that often hold women back from fully embracing their abilities and taking risks.

The book not only highlights the barriers women encounter but also offers effective strategies to overcome them. Kay and Shipman present practical tips and techniques that can help women build their confidence and achieve success in various areas of life, including business.

Through interviews with influential women from different industries, The Confidence Code showcases real-life examples of how confidence plays a crucial role in achieving career goals. The authors emphasize that confidence is not a fixed trait but rather a skill that can be learned and developed.

From debunking common myths about confidence to exploring the impact of body language and self-perception, this book provides a comprehensive guide for women who aspire to thrive in the professional world. It encourages women to embrace their strengths, take risks, and seize opportunities.

Whether you’re a young professional seeking guidance or an established businesswoman looking for a confidence boost, The Confidence Code is a must-read. It offers valuable insights and actionable advice that can empower any woman to unlock her full potential and succeed in the competitive world of business.

The Power of Onlyness: Make Your Wild Ideas Mighty Enough to Dent the World

by Nilofer Merchant

The Power of Onlyness: Make Your Wild Ideas Mighty Enough to Dent the World by Nilofer Merchant is a captivating and empowering book on the incredible potential of individuals, especially women, in the world of business. Merchant presents a fresh perspective on how successful women in business can harness their unique and valuable ideas, skills, and experiences to make a lasting impact.

The Third Wave: An Entrepreneur’s Vision of the Future

by Steve Case

Are you ready to dive into a riveting journey that explores the triumphs and challenges of exceptional female leaders? Look no further than “The Third Wave: An Entrepreneur’s Vision of the Future” by Steve Case. This captivating book is not just another run-of-the-mill book on successful women in business; it is a thought-provoking exploration of how these remarkable individuals have reshaped entire industries, pushing the boundaries of innovation and paving the way for a future that is brighter and more inclusive.

The Myth of the Nice Girl: Achieving a Career You Love Without Becoming a Person You Hate

by Fran Hauser

The Myth of the Nice Girl is a captivating book on successful women in business. Written by Fran Hauser, this empowering read challenges the notion that kindness is a weakness in the workplace. Hauser, an accomplished media executive and startup investor, shares her own experiences and interviews with other successful women to debunk the myth that being nice equates to being a pushover or lacking ambition.

This book about successful women in business provides practical advice and actionable strategies for navigating the corporate world without compromising one’s values. Hauser offers insights on how to assert oneself, set boundaries, and communicate effectively, all while maintaining kindness and empathy. By emphasizing that being nice is not a hindrance, but rather a strength, she encourages women to embrace their authentic selves and lead with confidence.

The Myth of the Nice Girl is a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and guidance on achieving a fulfilling career without sacrificing their true selves. It is a testament to the fact that successful women in business can be both kind and assertive, compassionate and ambitious. Through Hauser’s relatable anecdotes and expert advice, readers will be inspired to break free from societal expectations and forge their own path to success.

The Big Life: Embrace the Mess, Work Your Side Hustle, Find a Monumental Relationship, and Become the Badass Babe You Were Meant to Be

by Ann Shoket

Welcome to “The Big Life: Embrace the Mess, Work Your Side Hustle, Find a Monumental Relationship, and Become the Badass Babe You Were Meant to Be” by Ann Shoket, an empowering and game-changing book about ambitious and accomplished women in the business world.

In this captivating read, Shoket dives deep into the lives of successful women in business, offering insights, advice, and inspiration on how to navigate the challenges and triumphs of pursuing a big, bold life. Whether you’re a go-getter, a dreamer, or a hustler, this book is your ultimate guide to embracing the messiness of life, harnessing your side hustle, finding a monumental relationship, and becoming the badass babe you were always meant to be.

Shoket’s refreshing approach to storytelling and her personal anecdotes make this book a page-turner. She highlights the stories of real women who have overcome obstacles, embraced their passions, and achieved incredible success in their respective fields. Through their experiences, she uncovers the secrets to building a fulfilling and impactful career, while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

What sets “The Big Life” apart is Shoket’s emphasis on embracing the messiness of life. She encourages readers to embrace failure, learn from it, and use it as a stepping stone to greatness. She advocates for taking risks, pursuing side hustles, and exploring new opportunities outside of the traditional corporate ladder. Shoket believes that success is not a linear path, but a series of messy, unpredictable, and sometimes chaotic journeys that ultimately lead to personal and professional growth.

This book is a must-read for anyone looking to break free from societal norms and redefine what it means to be a successful woman in business. Shoket’s relatable and empowering voice will leave you feeling inspired, motivated, and ready to take on the world. So, if you’re ready to unleash your inner badass babe, grab a copy of “The Big Life” and embark on a transformative journey towards success and fulfillment.

The Moment of Clarity: Using the Human Sciences to Solve Your Toughest Business Problems

by Christian Madsbjerg and Mikkel B. Rasmussen

The Moment of Clarity: Using the Human Sciences to Solve Your Toughest Business Problems is not your typical book on successful women in business. Instead, authors Christian Madsbjerg and Mikkel B. Rasmussen take a unique approach to solving business challenges by drawing insights from the human sciences.

In this thought-provoking book, Madsbjerg and Rasmussen argue that the key to success in today’s complex business world lies in understanding the human element. They believe that relying solely on data and analytics is not enough to tackle the toughest problems that businesses face.

By incorporating insights from fields such as anthropology, sociology, and psychology, the authors provide a fresh perspective on how to navigate the ever-changing business landscape. They argue that by truly understanding customers, employees, and the wider social and cultural context in which businesses operate, leaders can make more informed decisions and create innovative solutions.

The Moment of Clarity is not just a book about successful women in business; it is a book for anyone looking to gain a deeper understanding of the human side of business. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a manager, or an aspiring leader, this book offers practical advice, real-life examples, and a new way of thinking that can help you tackle even the toughest business challenges.

So, if you’re tired of the same old business books and are looking for a fresh perspective, dive into The Moment of Clarity and discover how the human sciences can unlock new opportunities for success in your business.

The Power Playbook: Rules for Independence, Money, and Success

by La La Anthony

The Power Playbook: Rules for Independence, Money, and Success by La La Anthony

If you’re looking for a game-changing book on successful women in business, look no further than The Power Playbook: Rules for Independence, Money, and Success by La La Anthony. This powerful guide is packed with tips, strategies, and inspiring stories to help you navigate the world of entrepreneurship and achieve your dreams.

In this book about successful women in business, La La Anthony shares her own journey to success, including the challenges she faced and the lessons she learned along the way. Drawing from her own experiences as a successful actress, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, she provides practical advice on how to build your brand, create multiple streams of income, and overcome obstacles in your path.

With a no-nonsense approach and a focus on empowerment, The Power Playbook is a must-read for anyone looking to make their mark in the business world. La La Anthony’s relatable and down-to-earth style will make you feel like you’re getting advice from a trusted friend who has been there and done that.

Whether you’re just starting out or ready to take your career to the next level, this successful women in business book is your roadmap to achieving independence, financial success, and personal fulfillment. La La Anthony’s insights and actionable steps will inspire you to step into your power and create the life you’ve always dreamed of.

So, if you’re ready to unlock your full potential and become a force to be reckoned with in the business world, The Power Playbook is the book you need to read. Get ready to take charge, make money, and carve your path to success!

The Memo: What Women of Color Need to Know to Secure a Seat at the Table

by Minda Harts

The Memo: What Women of Color Need to Know to Secure a Seat at the Table by Minda Harts is a groundbreaking book about the triumphs and challenges of women of color in the business world. It is a powerful resource that provides practical advice, insights, and strategies to help women of color navigate the corporate landscape and achieve success.

This empowering book dives deep into the experiences of women of color, shedding light on the unique obstacles they face and offering guidance on how to overcome them. Minda Harts, an acclaimed speaker and career development expert, draws from her own journey and interviews with successful women in business to provide invaluable wisdom and inspiration.

The Memo is not just a book about successful women in business; it is a roadmap for women of color who aspire to break through glass ceilings and shatter barriers. It covers a wide range of topics, including networking, personal branding, negotiation, mentorship, and more.

Through engaging anecdotes, relatable stories, and practical exercises, Harts equips readers with the tools and knowledge they need to thrive in their careers. She encourages women of color to embrace their unique perspectives and talents, emphasizing the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

This book is a must-read for anyone who believes in the power of diversity and wants to support and uplift women of color in their professional journeys. The Memo is a game-changer, empowering women of color to claim their seats at the table and make lasting impact in the business world.

The Path Made Clear: Discovering Your Life’s Direction and Purpose

by Oprah Winfrey

The Path Made Clear: Discovering Your Life’s Direction and Purpose by Oprah Winfrey is not just another book on successful women in business. It is a captivating journey that takes you through the stories of extraordinary individuals who have found their true calling and made a significant impact on the world.

With powerful insights and heartfelt wisdom, Oprah Winfrey shares her own experiences and those of renowned leaders, thinkers, and artists from various walks of life. This book about successful women in business is a treasure trove of inspiration and guidance, offering a roadmap to help you uncover your passions, purpose, and ultimate fulfillment.

Through a collection of personal anecdotes, transformative quotes, and thought-provoking reflections, The Path Made Clear encourages you to embrace your unique gifts and talents. It explores the importance of self-discovery, resilience, and authenticity, reminding you that your life’s purpose is not a destination but a continuous journey of growth and self-realization.

Whether you are a young professional seeking direction, an entrepreneur looking to make a difference, or simply someone who craves a deeper understanding of their own path, this successful women in business book will ignite a spark within you. It will empower you to embrace your dreams, overcome obstacles, and live a life filled with purpose and meaning.

So, if you are ready to embark on a transformative journey towards self-discovery and find your own unique path, The Path Made Clear is the perfect companion. Let Oprah Winfrey and her incredible lineup of inspirational voices guide you towards a life of fulfillment, success, and happiness.

The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters

by Priya Parker

The Art of Gathering: How We Meet and Why It Matters by Priya Parker is not your average book on successful women in business. It goes beyond the typical advice and strategies and dives deep into the art of bringing people together and creating meaningful connections.

This book about successful women in business explores the power of gatherings and how they have the potential to transform not only our personal lives but also our professional ones. Priya Parker, a seasoned facilitator, takes us on a journey where we learn to redefine the way we meet and interact with others.

With her unique perspective, Parker emphasizes the importance of intentionality in gatherings. She challenges us to question our preconceived notions about what a successful gathering looks like and encourages us to design experiences that truly matter. By delving into the psychology behind why we gather, she provides practical insights and actionable techniques to make our gatherings more purposeful and impactful.

Whether you are a CEO looking to bring your team closer together or an entrepreneur seeking to build meaningful relationships with clients, this successful women in business book will inspire you to think differently about gatherings. It will equip you with the tools and mindset needed to create transformative experiences that leave a lasting impression.

So, if you are ready to elevate your gatherings and unlock the true potential of human connection, The Art of Gathering is a must-read. It will empower you to curate experiences that not only bring people together but also leave a lasting impact on their lives.

The Disruption Mindset: Why Some Organizations Transform While Others Fail

by Charlene Li

The Disruption Mindset is a captivating book on successful women in business, written by Charlene Li. Li explores the concept of disruption and why some organizations are able to successfully transform while others fail. She delves into the mindset required to navigate and thrive in today’s rapidly changing business landscape.

In this thought-provoking book about successful women in business, Li emphasizes the importance of embracing disruption as a strategic opportunity rather than a threat. She shares inspiring stories of women leaders who have embraced the disruption mindset and made significant impacts in their industries.

Through extensive research and analysis, Li uncovers the key characteristics and behaviors that define successful disruptors. She provides practical advice on how individuals and organizations can develop and cultivate a disruption mindset, enabling them to stay ahead in an ever-evolving world.

Whether you are a business leader, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply interested in understanding the mindset of successful women in business, The Disruption Mindset offers valuable insights and actionable strategies. This engaging and insightful book is a must-read for anyone seeking to thrive in today’s disruptive business environment.

The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World

by Melinda Gates

The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World by Melinda Gates is a captivating book that explores the power of empowering women and the transformative impact it has on societies and economies around the globe.

This thought-provoking book on successful women in business delves into the experiences and stories of women from diverse backgrounds who have overcome obstacles, shattered glass ceilings, and made significant contributions to their communities.

Through personal anecdotes, research, and interviews, Gates highlights the immense potential of women when given equal opportunities and support. She emphasizes that investing in women’s education, healthcare, and economic empowerment not only benefits individuals but also leads to a more prosperous and equitable world.

The author shares her own journey of discovering the importance of lifting women up and using her platform to advocate for gender equality. Gates challenges societal norms and biases, urging readers to question the status quo and work towards creating a more inclusive and just society.

This book about successful women in business is a powerful call to action, inspiring readers to join the movement and become agents of change. It showcases how empowering women not only improves their lives but also has a ripple effect, positively impacting families, communities, and entire nations.

Whether you are passionate about women’s rights, interested in global development, or simply seeking inspiration from remarkable individuals, this successful women in business book is a must-read. Prepare to be enlightened, motivated, and ready to contribute to a more equal and prosperous world.

The Power of Broke: How Empty Pockets, a Tight Budget, and a Hunger for Success Can Become Your Greatest Competitive Advantage

by Daymond John

The Power of Broke is a captivating book that explores the incredible success stories of individuals who started with nothing but their determination and hunger for success. Unlike many other books on successful women in business, this book goes beyond gender and focuses on the power of an empty pocket and a tight budget as a competitive advantage in the business world.

Daymond John, the renowned entrepreneur and star of the hit TV show Shark Tank, shares his own experiences and those of other successful entrepreneurs who have embraced their lack of resources and turned it into their greatest strength. This book is not just for women, but for anyone who wants to learn from the stories of individuals who have defied the odds and achieved remarkable success.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business professional, The Power of Broke offers valuable insights and actionable advice on how to leverage your limitations and transform them into opportunities. It challenges conventional thinking and encourages readers to think outside the box, to be resourceful, and to embrace the hunger for success.

By sharing real-life examples of individuals who started from scratch and achieved phenomenal success, Daymond John inspires readers to believe in themselves and their ideas. He demonstrates that success is not limited to those with large financial resources or influential connections, but rather to those who are willing to work hard, think creatively, and never give up.

So, if you’re looking for a book that goes beyond the typical narrative of successful women in business, The Power of Broke is the perfect choice. It will motivate and empower you to embrace your own limitations and use them as a stepping stone to achieve greatness. Get ready to be inspired and take your entrepreneurial journey to new heights!

The Moment of Lift: How Empowering Women Changes the World

by Melinda Gates

The Moment of Lift is an empowering book about successful women in business written by Melinda Gates, the co-founder of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. In this groundbreaking work, Gates shares her personal journey and experiences as she delves into the power of empowering women and how it can transform the world.

Through captivating storytelling, Gates explores the numerous challenges women face globally, such as gender inequality, poverty, and lack of access to education and healthcare. She also delves into the cultural and societal barriers that prevent women from reaching their full potential.

Gates provides compelling examples and case studies of women who have overcome adversity, showcasing their resilience and determination. She emphasizes the importance of addressing the root causes of gender inequality and highlights the incredible impact that investing in women can have on individuals, families, communities, and societies as a whole.

This book on successful women in business is not only inspiring but also thought-provoking. Gates encourages readers to reflect on their own biases and assumptions, challenging them to become advocates for change. She presents a compelling argument for why empowering women is not only a moral imperative but also an economic one.

The Moment of Lift offers practical solutions and actionable steps that individuals and organizations can take to support women’s empowerment, such as investing in education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Gates also emphasizes the importance of engaging men in the conversation, recognizing that gender equality is a shared responsibility.

Overall, The Moment of Lift is a powerful and eye-opening successful women in business book that highlights the incredible potential of women and the transformative impact they can have on the world. It serves as a call to action for readers to join the movement and work towards a more equitable and inclusive society for all.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these 20 books about successful women in business offer valuable insights, inspiration, and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and working professionals alike. From stories of trailblazing leaders to guides on achieving work-life balance, these books celebrate the achievements of women in business and provide a roadmap for success. Whether you are looking to start your own venture or climb the corporate ladder, these books will empower you to embrace your ambition, overcome challenges, and achieve your goals. So, pick up a copy of these books and get ready to be inspired by the stories of extraordinary women who have made a mark in the business world.