About 11 years ago, I changed careers from lawyer to executive coach and now also publisher of a parenting site. I still have a deep interest in the law and social justice issues, but one of the benefits of the career change was that my reading became more diverse and interesting. Much of the reading material for lawyers is fairly dry and prescriptive – but when I moved into the area of personal and professional development, I found there were thousands of fascinating books to read – and of course, not enough time to read them all. To help me sift through the many books available, I’m always looking for other people’s recommendations for business development books that have helped their business or changed their point of view. When I go to conferences and presentations, one of my favourite questions to ask successful business people is – what are your favourite business books? Then, I go online to find the best prices, order a few and stack them up beside the bed in the book avalanche to read in between novels and magazines. I’m going to give you a one sentence description of five books that I have found useful or inspiring – I hope one of them does something special for you. They are not my top five books, but rather a diverse selection of interesting references. Importantly, I am asking you to please also share a book of your own with ABN blog readers, along with a one or two sentence description.
Small Business, Big Brand by Carolyn Stafford
A small book packed with big practical ideas that anyone can implement straight away to build their brand presence without a large financial investment.
YouTube for Business; Online Video Marketing for Any Business by Michael Miller
Ideal for anyone needing a comprehensive overview of the features of YouTube for marketing, including helpful screenshots and links and how to make YouTube work with your website. Available from Booktopia, 40% off the retail price.
The Profit Principle by Peter Fritz and Jeanne-Vida Douglas
Reviewed before on this blog, this is an inspirational and mentoring-style read that gives entrepreneurs plenty of food for thought about how they are approaching their business development. Available from Booktopia, 19% off the retail price.
I Want What She’s Having by Naomi Simson
Business biography by the highly successful founder of Red Balloon Days, recounting the inevitable ups and downs of starting an online business with a small investment and from a home office; a story of determination and never giving up.
The Other 90%; How to Unlock Your Vast Potential for Leadership & Life by Robert Cooper
A book to go back to over and over again, totally inspirational stories and explanations about increasing our emotional energy, creativity and performance by tapping into our ‘hidden capacity’ – turning a vision into a reality. Available from Booktopia, 40% off the retail price.
Please share one of your recommendations with readers, and with me.
