Mastering Management: The 14 Best Books for New Managers
As someone who's been leading teams for the last 10 years, these best books for new managers, alongside leadership development programs, have had a huge impact on my leadership style and how I manage my teams. I'm pleased to share them with you to help you along your management journey.
14 Best Books for New Managers
- HBR's 10 Must Reads for New Managers by Linda Hill, Herminia Ibarra, Robert Cialdini, and Daniel Goleman
- Skills for New Managers by Morey Stettner
- Everyone Deserves a Great Manager by Scott Jeffrey Miller, Todd Davis, Victoria Roos Olsson
- Welcome to Management by Ryan Hawk
- Becoming a Manager by Linda A. Hill
- The Complete New Manager by Shanda K. Miller
- The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo
- The Effective Manager by Mark Horstman
- Management Skills for New Managers by Carol W. Ellis
- The Seven Mistakes New Managers Make by Janet Polach
- The Manager's Path by Camille Fournier
- Management Mentor by Sean Donahoe
- Practical Lessons for New Managers by Rachel Pacheco
- The Little Black Book for Managers: Maximize Your Key Management Moments of Power by John Cross, Rafael Gomez, Kevin Money
14 Best Books For New Managers
1. HBR's 10 Must Reads for New Managers by Linda Hill, Herminia Ibarra, Robert Cialdini, and Daniel Goleman
Summary:
"HBR's 10 Must Reads for New Managers" is a comprehensive collection of articles curated by Harvard Business Review. "Bringing Up the Boss," a notable entry in the world of management books, is part of a renowned series that caters to first-time managers. It stands out as a bestseller in this category.
What You'll Learn:
In this book, you'll learn essential skills for new managers.
Why You Should Read It:
If you're embarking on your journey as a new manager, "Bringing Up the Boss" is your roadmap to success. It equips you with the knowledge and tools necessary to lead a team effectively. This book is a must-read for anyone aspiring to thrive in their managerial career.
Quote From The Book:
"The transition to a managerial role is not just a promotion; it's a fundamental shift in your work identity."
About The Author:
- Find Linda Hill on LinkedIn and X
- Find Herminia Ibarra on her website, X, LinkedIn, and Youtube
- Find Robert Cialdini on Facebook and X
- Find Daniel Goleman on his website, LinkedIn, and X
2. Skills for New Managers by Morey Stettner
Summary:
"Skills for New Managers" by Morey Stettner is a practical guide designed to help new managers acquire the essential skills and knowledge required for success in their roles.
What You'll Learn:
Morey Stettner offers step-by-step guidance and tips to help new managers.
Why You Should Read It:
If you're a new manager seeking to enhance your leadership abilities, "Skills for New Managers" is an indispensable resource. Stettner's expertise shines through, making this book a valuable companion on your journey to becoming a successful manager.
Quote From The Book:
"Effective managers understand that their success depends on the success of their team members."
About The Author:
- Find Morey Stettner on LinkedIn
3. Everyone Deserves a Great Manager: The 6 Critical Practices for Leading a Team by Scott Jeffrey Miller, Todd Davis, Victoria Roos Olsson
Summary:
"Everyone Deserves a Great Manager," authored collaboratively by Scott Jeffrey Miller, Todd Davis, and Victoria Roos Olsson. This book lays out six critical practices that are indispensable for effective team leadership.
What You'll Learn:
Within the pages of this leadership book, new leaders will uncover a roadmap to smarter and more effective leadership. It unveils the six critical practices that are indispensable for those aspiring to become exceptional team leaders.
Why You Should Read It:
"Everyone Deserves a Great Manager" offers actionable strategies and real-world examples. It's a must-read for anyone committed to achieving excellence in team leadership.
Quote From The Book:
"Great managers invest in their teams, helping individuals become the best version of themselves."
About The Authors:
- Find Victoria Roos Olsson on X
- Find Scott Jeffrey on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X, and his website
4. Welcome to Management: How to Grow From Top Performer to Excellent Leader by Ryan Hawk
Summary:
"Welcome to Management" by Ryan Hawk is a guide that helps top performers transition into successful leaders. Hawk shares his own experiences and provides actionable advice on making the leap from individual contributor to effective manager and leader.
What You'll Learn:
Ryan Hawk's insights serve as a valuable resource, providing you with the requisite tools and mindset for excelling in your managerial role.
Why You Should Read It:
Ryan Hawk's blend of practical guidance and insightful personal anecdotes positions this book as a must-read among business books, akin to a treasure trove of real-world case studies.
Quote From The Book:
"Becoming a great leader is not about having all the answers; it's about asking the right questions."
About The Author:
5. Becoming a Manager: How New Managers Master the Challenges of Leadership by Linda A. Hill
Summary:
In the realm of becoming a good manager, "Becoming a Manager" authored by Linda A. Hill stands as a great book. It delves into the intricacies of how new managers can adeptly tackle the challenges of leadership.
What You'll Learn:
You'll gain a deep understanding of the essential skills and qualities required to excel as a new manager. Linda A. Hill shares insights on effective communication, team-building, and decision-making, providing you with the tools to lead with confidence and competence.
Why You Should Read It:
"Becoming a Manager" is an invaluable resource. Hill's expertise and practical wisdom make this book a must-read for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills.
Quote From The Book:
"Becoming a manager is not just about taking on a new role; it's about adopting a new mindset and skill set."
About The Author:
6. The Complete New Manager: From Supervisor to Super Leader by Shanda K. Miller
Summary:
In the quest to become a good manager, "The Complete New Manager" authored by Shanda K. Miller emerges as a great book. It serves as a comprehensive guide, meticulously addressing the transformation of new managers from mere supervisors into superlative leaders.
What You'll Learn:
Within the pages of this great book, aspiring good managers will uncover the art of liberating themselves from the stresses of leadership. Shanda K.
Why You Should Read It:
If you're a new manager seeking to make a significant impact and lead your team to success, "The Complete New Manager" is your go-to resource. Shanda K. Miller's expertise and practical guidance will empower you to overcome challenges and become a super leader in your organization.
Quote From The Book:
"Effective leadership is not about doing it all; it's about empowering your team to achieve greatness."
About The Author:
7. The Making of a Manager: What to Do When Everyone Looks to You by Julie Zhuo
Summary:
"The Making of a Manager" by Julie Zhuo is an insightful guide for new managers who find themselves in a leadership role. Drawing from her own experiences at Facebook, Zhuo offers practical advice on transitioning from an individual contributor to an effective manager, including how to handle the challenges that come with it.
What You'll Learn:
In this book, you'll gain valuable insights into the essential skills and qualities required to be an effective manager. Julie Zhuo provides guidance on decision-making, communication, and team leadership. Her personal anecdotes and actionable advice make this book a valuable resource for new managers.
Why You Should Read It:
If you're new to a management position and want to excel in your role, "The Making of a Manager" is a must-read. Julie Zhuo's expertise and relatable writing style make this book a trusted companion for your leadership journey.
Quote From The Book:
"Being a manager means making decisions that affect not just you, but your team and the company."
About The Author:
8. The Effective Manager by Mark Horstman
Summary:
"The Effective Manager" by Mark Horstman is a practical guide that focuses on the key principles of effective management. Horstman provides actionable strategies and tools to help managers lead their teams efficiently and achieve exceptional results.
What You'll Learn:
Within the pages of this book, you will delve into the foundational principles of high-output management, encompassing critical elements such as communication, delegation, and performance management
Why You Should Read It:
Whether you're a new manager looking to build a strong foundation or an experienced one aiming to sharpen your skills, "The Effective Manager" offers practical insights to help you excel in your role. Mark Horstman's expertise and no-nonsense style make this book a trusted resource.
Quote From The Book:
"Effective managers focus on the outcomes and results their teams achieve, not just on the activities they perform."
About The Author:
- Find Mark Horstman on LinkedIn
9. Management Skills for New Managers by Carol W. Ellis
Summary:
"Management Skills for New Managers" by Carol W. Ellis is a comprehensive guide designed specifically for new managers. Ellis provides practical advice on essential management skills, from communication and decision-making to team leadership and problem-solving.
What You'll Learn:
Carol W. Ellis imparts not only practical insights but also actionable tips.
Why You Should Read It:
"Management Skills for New Managers" is an invaluable resource. Carol W. Ellis's expertise and practical guidance make this book a trusted companion on your journey to becoming an effective manager.
Quote From The Book:
"Effective managers prioritize clear communication and active listening to build strong team dynamics."
About The Author:
Although the author is not present on the internet, we encourage you to explore their other work.
10. The Seven Mistakes New Managers Make by Janet Polach
Summary:
"The Seven Mistakes New Managers Make" by Janet Polach is a practical guide that highlights common pitfalls new managers often encounter and provides strategies for avoiding them. This book offers valuable insights and advice to help new managers navigate their roles more effectively.
What You'll Learn:
In this book, you'll discover the seven common mistakes that new managers tend to make and, more importantly, how to avoid them. Janet Polach provides practical tips and real-life examples to help new managers become more successful in their leadership roles.
Why You Should Read It:
If you're a new manager or aspiring to be one, "The Seven Mistakes New Managers Make" is an essential read. Polach's expertise and actionable guidance make this book a valuable resource to help you start your managerial journey on the right foot.
Quote From The Book:
"Effective managers learn from their mistakes and continuously improve their leadership skills."
About The Author:
11. The Manager's Path: A Guide for Tech Leaders Navigating Growth and Change by Camille Fournier
Summary:
"The Manager's Path" by Camille Fournier is a comprehensive guide tailored for tech leaders, providing insights on how to navigate the challenges of growth and change in the tech industry. Fournier offers practical advice on various stages of a tech leader's career, from individual contributor to executive.
What You'll Learn:
Within the pages of this book, you will acquire profound insights into the distinctive challenges confronted by tech leaders and, more importantly, how to triumph over them while maintaining your humanity, reminiscent of Dale Carnegie's "How to Win Friends and Influence People."
Why You Should Read It:
For those already in the role of a tech leader or with aspirations to become one, "The Manager's Path" emerges as an essential read akin to the wisdom of Peter Drucker and the insights of Simon Sinek.
Quote From The Book:
"Tech leaders must continuously adapt to the rapidly changing landscape of the industry to remain effective."
About The Author:
12. Management Mentor: Techniques for New Managers by Sean Donahoe
Summary:
"Management Mentor" by Sean Donahoe is a practical guide tailored for new managers, providing techniques and strategies to excel in their roles. Donahoe offers actionable advice to help new managers navigate the challenges they face and become effective leaders.
What You'll Learn:
You'll gain valuable insights into the techniques and skills required to succeed as a new manager. Sean Donahoe provides practical tips for communication, team leadership, and problem-solving. It's a valuable resource for those looking to enhance their management skills.
Why You Should Read It:
If you're a new manager seeking to improve your leadership abilities and make a positive impact, "Management Mentor" is an essential read. Moreover, Sean Donahoe's expertise and practical guidance make this book a trusted companion on your journey to effective management.
Quote From The Book:
"Effective managers focus on understanding their team members' strengths and weaknesses to maximize productivity."
About The Author:
- Find Sean Donahoe on LinkedIn
13. Practical Lessons for New Managers by Rachel Pacheco
Summary:
"Practical Lessons for New Managers" by Rachel Pacheco is a valuable resource designed to equip new managers with practical insights and skills essential for success in their roles. Pacheco shares her expertise and experience to provide a comprehensive guide for those transitioning into managerial positions.
What You'll Learn:
In this book, you will learn practical lessons that are crucial for new managers. Because Rachel Pacheco covers a wide range of topics, including communication, team leadership, problem-solving, and time management. Her real-world examples and actionable advice make this book an invaluable tool for new managers looking to excel in their positions.
Why You Should Read It:
If you are a new manager seeking practical guidance and actionable tips to navigate your managerial journey, "Practical Lessons for New Managers" is an essential read. Rachel Pacheco's expertise and hands-on approach will help you build a strong foundation for effective management.
Quote From The Book:
"Effective managers understand the importance of clear communication and actively listening to their team members' needs."
About The Author:
14. The Little Black Book for Managers: How to Maximize Your Key Management Moments of Power by John Cross, Rafael Gomez, Kevin Money
Summary:
"The Little Black Book for Managers" by John Cross, Rafael Gomez, and Kevin Money is a concise guide that focuses on helping managers maximize key management moments of power. Later, the book offers practical advice on effective decision-making, communication, and leadership.
What You'll Learn:
In this book, you'll discover techniques and strategies to leverage your management moments of power. Besides, the authors provide actionable insights to help you make the most of crucial management situations and achieve better results in your role.
Why You Should Read It:
Whether you're a new manager or an experienced one, "The Little Black Book for Managers" is a valuable resource for honing your management skills. So, the authors' expertise and practical tips make this book an essential read for those looking to excel in their roles.
Quote From The Book:
"Effective managers understand that their decisions have a significant impact on their team's success and morale."
About The Authors:
The Management Journey
These books on management offer a wealth of knowledge and practical insights for new managers striving to excel in their roles.
Generally, whether you're looking to enhance your leadership skills, navigate the challenges of management, or leverage the wisdom of experienced leaders, these titles provide valuable guidance.
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