Leading Ladies: 21 Best Leadership Books for Women
Regarding the vast realm of leadership books for women, I've delved deep—immersing myself in countless volumes that promise to change the world with their insights.
I've sifted through myriad business books, eager to decode different leadership styles and refine my leadership skills. After countless hours spent in the company of these pages, interspersed with enlightening TED talks and insightful podcasts, I've garnered a rich tapestry of knowledge.
As someone passionate about equipping the next generation with essential leadership tools and a balanced work-life perspective, I've come to recognize the unparalleled value of these reads.
Whether you're seeking the best leadership books filled with actionable case studies or simply looking to evolve your leadership style—I've been there, I've read that, and I can't wait to share it with you.
21 Leadership Books for Women Shortlist
Having delved into countless titles, I've curated a list of leadership books for women that genuinely address core challenges.
- Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
- Successful Women Think Differently: 9 Habits to Make You Happier, Healthier, and More Resilient by Valorie Burton
- Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg
- The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman
- Lead from the Outside: How to Build Your Future and Make Real Change by Stacey Abrams
- Becoming by Michelle Obama
- How Women Rise: Break the 12 Habits Holding You Back by Sally Helgesen and Marshall Goldsmith
- In the Company of Women: Inspiration and Advice from over 100 Makers, Artists, and Entrepreneurs by Grace Bonney
- More Than Enough by Elaine Welteroth
- The Making of a Manager: What to Do When Everyone Looks to You by Julie Zhuo
- Women and Leadership: Real Lives, Real Lessons by Julia Gillard and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
- Centered Leadership: Leading with Purpose, Clarity, and Impact by Joanna Barsh and Johanne Lavoie
- How Remarkable Women Lead: The Breakthrough Model for Work and Life by Joanna Barsh, Susie Cranston, and Geoffrey Lewis
- Thrive: The Third Metric to Redefining Success and Creating a Life of Well-Being, Wisdom, and Wonder by Arianna Huffington
- The Female Vision: Women's Real Power at Work by Sally Helgesen and Julie Johnson
- The Likeability Trap by Alicia Menendez
- She Thinks Like a Boss: Leadership: 9 Essential Skills for New Female Leaders in Business and the Workplace by Jemma Roedel
- The Black Woman in Leadership's Survival Guide by Becca Bakre and Ashley Gray
- Imposter Syndrome and Other Confessions of Alejandra Kim by Patricia Park
- Developing Female Leaders by Kadi Cole
- Women of the Bible for Women of Color by Editors at Urban Spirit Pub Co
Overviews of The 21 Leadership Books for Women
1. Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
Summary:
Brené Brown, renowned for her research on courage, vulnerability, and leadership, offers a transformative read on how to step up and lead in any environment. Drawing on her extensive studies, Brown proposes that daring leadership is marked by an ability to share, learn from, and lean into our vulnerabilities.
What You'll Learn:
Through compelling stories and data, readers will be introduced to key practices to drive brave work, tough conversations, and whole hearts. Brown emphasizes the role of vulnerability in effective leadership and offers actionable strategies for leaders to create a culture that fosters innovation and collaboration.
Why You Should Read It:
Leadership is not about titles or the corner office. It’s about the willingness to step up, put yourself out there, and lean into courage. Brown's "Dare to Lead" is an invaluable guide for anyone who aspires to lead with compassion and empathy.
Quote From The Book:
"Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge."
About The Author:
Brené Brown is a research professor, author, and public speaker. Connect with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her website.
2. Successful Women Think Differently: 9 Habits to Make You Happier, Healthier, and More Resilient by Valorie Burton
Summary:
Valorie Burton delves deep into the habits and mindset shifts that differentiate successful women. Drawing on psychology, neuroscience, and her own experiences, Burton outlines the habits that enable women to navigate challenges with resilience and joy.
What You'll Learn:
This book uncovers the nine habits that propel women toward their goals despite setbacks. Readers will learn how to harness optimism, increase resilience, leverage their strengths, and cultivate a growth mindset—qualities critical for personal and professional success.
Why You Should Read It:
It's not just about what successful women do but how they think. Burton's insights provide a roadmap for any woman aiming to personally and professionally thrive.
Quote From The Book:
"Your destiny is not determined by your circumstances. It is determined by your choices."
About The Author:
Valorie Burton is a bestselling author, speaker, and certified personal and executive coach. Engage with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her unique website.
3. Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg
Summary:
Sheryl Sandberg, the COO of Facebook, offers a deeply personal and empowering examination of the challenges women face in leadership roles. She combines complex data with personal anecdotes to address how women can overcome systemic barriers and internal doubts.
What You'll Learn:
Sandberg provides insights into the subtle yet profound ways women may hold themselves back in the workplace. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of the societal structures that shape gender roles and learn strategies to navigate, negotiate, and advocate for themselves in professional settings.
Why You Should Read It:
Sandberg's observations and advice are invaluable for any woman looking to amplify her voice, make an impact, and drive change in the workplace.
Quote From The Book:
"In the future, there will be no female leaders. There will just be leaders."
About The Author:
Sheryl Sandberg is the Chief Operating Officer of Facebook and a passionate advocate for women in leadership. Connect with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her website.
4. The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman
Summary:
Journalists Katty Kay and Claire Shipman delve into the anatomy of confidence. Drawing on scientific research, expert opinions, and personal stories, they explore the significance of confidence for women and how it can be cultivated.
What You'll Learn:
The book unravels the neurological basis of confidence, its role in success, and the reasons it often eludes women. Readers will uncover actionable strategies to boost self-assurance, shatter self-imposed limitations, and step into their power.
Why You Should Read It:
For those who've ever doubted their abilities or felt their confidence waver, this book provides science-backed insights and practical steps to reclaim and fortify that inner strength.
Quote From The Book:
"Confidence is the stuff that turns thoughts into action."
About The Author:
Katty Kay and Claire Shipman are seasoned journalists with a passion for uncovering the dynamics of confidence. Engage with Katty on LinkedIn and Twitter. Connect with Claire on LinkedIn and Twitter.
5. Lead from the Outside: How to Build Your Future and Make Real Change by Stacey Abrams
Summary:
Stacey Abrams guides outsiders and the underestimated in this inspiring work. Drawing from her personal experiences in politics and activism, Abrams offers insights into harnessing one's unique perspectives and using them as assets in leadership and change-making.
What You'll Learn:
Abrams shares personal anecdotes, strategies, and actionable steps to understand your value, activate your ambition, and drive change in both personal and professional arenas—even when you feel like an outsider.
Why You Should Read It:
For anyone who's felt marginalized or underestimated, Abrams' book is a testament to the power of resilience and the significance of unique voices in creating lasting change.
Quote From The Book:
"Wanting to lead is not a qualification for leadership; knowing why and being willing to do the work, take the risk, make the sacrifices, and adapt to the circumstances, however, are."
About The Author:
Stacey Abrams is a political leader, voting rights activist, and New York Times bestselling author. Connect with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her website.
6. Becoming by Michelle Obama
Summary:
In "Becoming," Michelle Obama invites readers into her world, chronicling the experiences that shaped her—from her childhood on the South Side of Chicago to her years in the White House as the First Lady of the United States.
What You'll Learn:
Through intimate reflections, readers glimpse Obama's trials, triumphs, challenges, and the profound moments that defined her journey. The memoir delves into her roles as a daughter, student, lawyer, wife, mother, and First Lady and the lessons she's drawn from each.
Why You Should Read It:
It's a deeply personal account of a public figure, offering insights into the complexities, joys, and challenges of navigating multiple roles while in the global spotlight.
Quote From The Book:
"Becoming isn’t about arriving somewhere or achieving a certain aim. I see it instead as forward motion, a means of evolving, a way to reach continuously toward a better self."
About The Author:
Michelle Obama is a lawyer, writer, and the wife of the 44th President, Barack Obama. Engage with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her website.
7. How Women Rise: Break the 12 Habits Holding You Back by Sally Helgesen and Marshall Goldsmith
Summary:
Leadership experts Sally Helgesen and Marshall Goldsmith delve into the challenges and behaviors that can hold women back in their careers. They highlight 12 habits women must recognize and overcome to ascend and succeed in leadership roles.
What You'll Learn:
This book unpacks 12 common behaviors that women may inadvertently engage in, which can slow their professional growth. From perfectionism to overvaluing expertise and reluctance to claim achievements, readers will gain insights into self-limiting habits and actionable advice to break free from them.
Why You Should Read It:
If you're a woman striving for success and leadership, understanding these 12 habits is crucial. This book enlightens readers and equips them with tools to navigate and reshape their professional trajectories.
Quote From The Book:
"The future is not something that just happens to us. It's something we create by our actions."
About The Author:
Sally Helgesen is a leadership coach and author specializing in women's leadership. Connect with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her website. Marshall Goldsmith is a renowned executive coach and author. Engage with him on LinkedIn, Twitter, and his personal website.
8. In the Company of Women: Inspiration and Advice from over 100 Makers, Artists, and Entrepreneurs by Grace Bonney
Summary:
Grace Bonney presents a rich tapestry of interviews with an eclectic group of women from diverse backgrounds, industries, and ages. This compilation celebrates women entrepreneurs and creatives' spirit, determination, creativity, and wisdom.
What You'll Learn:
Dive into the minds and hearts of over 100 women who've paved their unique paths in business and art. From their successes and failures to their sources of inspiration, these narratives reveal the essence of entrepreneurship and creativity.
Why You Should Read It:
This book offers a multifaceted view of womanhood and success. Whether you're an entrepreneur, an artist, or someone seeking inspiration, these stories will resonate and uplift.
Quote From The Book:
"Embrace what makes you unique, even if it makes others uncomfortable."
About The Author:
Grace Bonney founded the acclaimed website Design*Sponge and advocates for women in the creative industry. Connect with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her website.
9. More Than Enough by Elaine Welteroth
Summary:
Elaine Welteroth's memoir delves into her journey of climbing the ranks in media and fashion. As the youngest editor-in-chief at Condé Nast, her story intertwines personal experiences with broader societal reflections on race, power, and identity in the modern world.
What You'll Learn:
Elaine shares candid insights about breaking barriers in the traditionally exclusive spheres of fashion and media. From grappling with tokenism to finding her authentic voice, the memoir provides a roadmap for those trying to navigate their professional and personal lives amidst societal expectations.
Why You Should Read It:
This memoir isn't just about one woman's success story; it's a testament to resilience, determination, and the quest for authenticity in a world that often expects conformity.
Quote From The Book:
"Having an impact isn't about making a splash; it’s about making a difference."
About The Author:
Elaine Welteroth is a journalist, editor, and author celebrated for her groundbreaking work in fashion journalism. Engage with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her website.
10. The Making of a Manager: What to Do When Everyone Looks to You by Julie Zhuo
Summary:
Julie Zhuo, former VP of Product Design at Facebook, presents a guide that every new manager will find invaluable. From her experiences, Zhuo delivers actionable insights into navigating the complex realm of team leadership, managing people, and achieving professional growth.
What You'll Learn:
From hiring and mentoring to resolving conflicts and fostering team growth, this book is a comprehensive guide to the key responsibilities and challenges managers face. Zhuo combines anecdotes with practical advice, making it a go-to resource for anyone seeking leadership roles.
Why You Should Read It:
Suppose you're transitioning into a managerial position or aspiring to lead a team. This book offers first-hand wisdom to equip you with the skills and perspective essential for effective leadership.
Quote From The Book:
"Great management is about creating great outcomes, not great legacies."
About The Author:
Julie Zhuo is an experienced product design executive and author. Known for her leadership at Facebook, she's a voice of authority in management and product design. Connect with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her website.
11. Women and Leadership: Real Lives, Real Lessons by Julia Gillard and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Summary:
Diving deep into the lived experiences of women in leadership globally, Gillard and Okonjo-Iweala present a riveting account of challenges faced and lessons learned. Drawing from their careers and those of numerous other influential women, they offer a nuanced perspective on women's leadership.
What You'll Learn:
Uncover the myriad challenges women leaders encounter in their journeys—gender bias, societal norms, or personal obstacles. Equally, gain insights into the strategies and resilience that have empowered these leaders to rise above such challenges and effect real change.
Why You Should Read It:
Beyond being a mere account, this book guides aspiring women leaders, offering actionable lessons rooted in real-world experiences.
Quote From The Book:
"Leadership isn't about gender; it's about vision, tenacity, and the courage to step into the unknown."
About The Author:
Julia Gillard served as the 27th Prime Minister of Australia. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is an economist and international development expert. Engage with Julia on LinkedIn and Ngozi on LinkedIn, Twitter, and their websites.
12. Centered Leadership: Leading with Purpose, Clarity, and Impact by Joanna Barsh and Johanne Lavoie
Summary:
Joanna Barsh and Johanne Lavoie unveil the principles of "Centered Leadership"—a groundbreaking model from extensive research and interviews with successful leaders worldwide. This transformative approach empowers leaders to tap into their potential, driving personal and organizational success.
What You'll Learn:
Dive into the five dimensions of Centered Leadership—Meaning, Framing, Connecting, Engaging, and Energizing. Each chapter delves into strategies to enhance self-awareness, foster resilience, and lead with authenticity.
Why You Should Read It:
For those seeking a holistic and impactful leadership approach, this book outlines a path that intertwines personal growth with professional excellence.
Quote From The Book:
"True leadership stems from inner clarity and purpose, radiating outward to inspire teams."
About The Author:
Joanna Barsh is a Director Emeritus at McKinsey & Company and an expert in leadership development. Johanne Lavoie is a leadership development expert with decades of experience. Connect with Joanna on LinkedIn and Johanne on LinkedIn, Twitter, and their website.
13. How Remarkable Women Lead: The Breakthrough Model for Work and Life by Joanna Barsh, Susie Cranston, and Geoffrey Lewis
Summary:
Diving deep into the world of leadership, Barsh, Cranston, and Lewis bring forth stories of women from diverse fields, highlighting their triumphs and lessons. This book presents an enlightening model that bridges the gap between personal passions and professional aspirations, making leadership an attainable goal for every woman.
What You'll Learn:
Discover the five essential elements that remarkable women leaders embody: Centering, Framing, Mobilizing, Engaging, and Sustaining. These elements are not just theoretical constructs but actionable traits that can be nurtured and developed by any woman aspiring to lead.
Why You Should Read It:
Whether you're on the cusp of leadership or looking to refine your approach, this book offers a fresh, relatable perspective on navigating challenges and seizing opportunities.
Quote From The Book:
"Leadership is not about the destination, but the journey of self-discovery, resilience, and growth."
About The Author:
Joanna Barsh is a renowned leadership expert, Susie Cranston is a seasoned consultant, and Geoffrey Lewis is an acclaimed author and researcher.
14. Thrive: The Third Metric to Redefining Success and Creating a Life of Well-Being, Wisdom, and Wonder by Arianna Huffington
Summary:
In her groundbreaking book, Arianna Huffington challenges the conventional definitions of success. Instead of mere wealth and power, she introduces a third metric—well-being, wisdom, and wonder, arguing that true success encompasses these enriching elements.
What You'll Learn:
Explore the realms of well-being, wisdom, wonder, and giving. Learn about the significance of sleep, the value of disconnecting from the digital world, and the transformative power of giving. Huffington delves into the intimate moments of her life, imparting lessons that redefine success.
Why You Should Read It:
In a world fixated on worldly success, this book serves as a beacon for those seeking a more profound, fulfilling life that harmonizes personal well-being with professional accomplishment.
Quote From The Book:
"Success is not a ladder we climb, but a path we carve, prioritizing our well-being, inner wisdom, and the capacity to marvel at life."
About The Author:
Arianna Huffington is the co-founder and former editor-in-chief of The Huffington Post. A prolific author and influential thought leader, she champions the cause of well-being in the modern age. Connect with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her website.
15. The Female Vision: Women's Real Power at Work by Sally Helgesen and Julie Johnson
Summary:
Helgesen and Johnson illuminate the unique and potent vision women bring to the workplace. Drawing from extensive research and real-life stories, they illustrate how women's perspectives are not just different but also invaluable and transformative.
What You'll Learn:
Unearth the inherent strengths of the female perspective in business. The authors delve into how women perceive situations, risks, and opportunities differently, their unique approach to problem-solving, and the deep, empathetic insights they naturally weave into their leadership.
Why You Should Read It:
In an evolving workplace, understanding and harnessing the female vision is essential. This book is a clarion call to recognize, appreciate, and integrate women's distinctive views for more holistic and innovative solutions.
Quote From The Book:
"Women's vision, rooted in their broader perception and deep empathy, is not just unique—it's the future of successful leadership."
About The Author:
Sally Helgesen is an acclaimed speaker and leadership consultant, while Julie Johnson specializes in organizational transformation.
16. The Likeability Trap by Alicia Menendez
Summary:
Menendez dives into the paradoxes women face in professional settings: being perceived as too nice or aggressive. The book navigates the tightrope women walk, where likeability and success often seem at odds.
What You'll Learn:
Explore the societal pressures and biases women confront and the effects of these expectations on their career trajectories. Menendez presents actionable strategies to break free from the confines of the "likeability trap" and embrace authentic leadership.
Why You Should Read It:
For any woman who's felt pressured to conform to limiting stereotypes, this book provides insights into reconciling one's professional persona with genuine self-expression.
Quote From The Book:
"Being liked is desirable, but it becomes a trap when it dictates our choices and limits our ambitions."
About The Author:
Alicia Menendez is a journalist, television host, and an advocate for women's rights. Connect with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her website.
17. She Thinks Like a Boss: Leadership: 9 Essential Skills for New Female Leaders in Business and the Workplace by Jemma Roedel
Summary:
Roedel masterfully explores the unique challenges and advantages female leaders face in business. The book offers a comprehensive guide to ascending the corporate ladder with confidence by addressing the nine essential skills that new female leaders must harness.
What You'll Learn:
Dive into a step-by-step breakdown of skills every budding female leader should cultivate. From honing communication abilities to understanding team dynamics and establishing a powerful personal brand, Roedel equips readers with the tools to thrive in leadership roles.
Why You Should Read It:
With the corporate landscape still skewed in many ways, it's vital for women to understand their unique strengths and how to navigate potential pitfalls. This book is a treasure trove of insights tailored for women seeking leadership positions.
Quote From The Book:
"Thinking like a boss isn't about mimicking men; it's about embracing the powerful leader within, with grace, strength, and authenticity."
About The Author:
Jemma Roedel is a leadership coach and advocate for women in business. Engage with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her website.
18. The Black Woman in Leadership's Survival Guide by Becca Bakre and Ashley Gray
Summary:
Bakre and Gray delve into Black women’s distinct challenges in leadership roles. With a combination of data-driven insights and personal anecdotes, they chart a path for Black female leaders to flourish in predominantly white spaces.
What You'll Learn:
Understand the systemic biases Black women face and the resilience it takes to overcome them. The authors share actionable strategies, from fostering supportive networks to cultivating a mindset of unapologetic ambition, to help Black women navigate and redefine leadership landscapes.
Why You Should Read It:
As the conversation around diversity and inclusion gains momentum, this book sheds light on the lived experiences of Black female leaders, offering both inspiration and practical advice.
Quote From The Book:
"Leadership is not just about titles or positions; it's about breaking barriers, creating spaces, and amplifying voices that were long silenced."
About The Author:
Becca Bakre and Ashley Gray are trailblazers in advocating for equity in leadership.
19. Imposter Syndrome and Other Confessions of Alejandra Kim by Patricia Park
Summary:
In this stirring narrative, Alejandra Kim grapples with the crippling self-doubt of imposter syndrome while navigating the complexities of identity, ambition, and relationships. Patricia Park crafts a poignant tale of a young woman's journey to self-acceptance amidst the pressures of modern society.
What You'll Learn:
Readers will gain insights into the manifestations of imposter syndrome and its impact on personal and professional life. Through Alejandra Kim's experiences, one can explore the interplay of culture, gender, and societal expectations and how they contribute to feelings of inadequacy.
Why You Should Read It:
Park's narrative offers a raw and relatable look into the psyche of a young woman teetering on the edge of self-doubt. It's a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of self-reflection in overcoming internal barriers.
Quote From The Book:
"Every mask I wore felt like a lie, but with each layer shed, I found a piece of my truth."
About The Author:
Patricia Park is an acclaimed author known for her poignant storytelling. Connect with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her website.
20. Developing Female Leaders by Kadi Cole
Summary:
Kadi Cole provides a comprehensive guide on fostering the growth of female leaders in various organizational contexts. Drawing from years of experience, she presents strategies, tools, and best practices to empower and develop women in leadership roles.
What You'll Learn:
This book delves into female leaders’ unique challenges and offers actionable solutions to overcome them. From mentoring programs to inclusive policies and fostering supportive environments, Cole outlines a roadmap for organizations aiming to boost their female leadership representation.
Why You Should Read It:
As the push for gender equity in leadership roles continues, Cole's guide offers invaluable insights for organizations and individuals committed to creating a more diverse leadership landscape.
Quote From The Book:
"Empowering a woman does not diminish the power of a man; it amplifies the strength of the collective."
About The Author:
Kadi Cole is a leadership consultant passionate about developing female leaders. Engage with her on LinkedIn, Twitter, and her website.
21. Women of the Bible for Women of Color by Editors at Urban Spirit Pub Co
Summary:
In this enriching exploration, "Women of the Bible for Women of Color" delves into the lives and experiences of biblical women, offering a fresh perspective tailored to women of color. Through meticulously curated content, the editors weave stories of empowerment, faith, and resilience, shedding light on the parallel challenges faced by modern women of color.
What You'll Learn:
Readers will be reintroduced to notable women from the biblical era, understanding their lives and lessons in a new light. Beyond their historical significance, the book illuminates the enduring relevance of these women's experiences, drawing connections to contemporary struggles, triumphs, and faith journeys of women of color.
Why You Should Read It:
This unique interpretation provides an empowering lens for women of color, emphasizing the universality of challenges faced by women across ages. The narratives serve as a testament to the power of faith and resilience, inspiring modern readers to find strength in their journeys.
Quote From The Book:
"Across ages and hues, the tales of these biblical women resonate, reminding us that faith's strength transcends time and color."
About The Author:
The Editors at Urban Spirit Pub Co have dedicated themselves to producing meaningful content that speaks to the experiences of diverse communities. Connect with them on LinkedIn and explore their work on their official website.
What Leadership Books For Women Will You Recommend?
Having journeyed through the intricacies of leadership and its manifold dimensions, I've curated a transformative and foundational list. But the beauty of this realm is its ever-evolving nature. So, I turn to you, dear readers—have you come across a leadership book for women that's been a game-changer for you? Share your recommendations, and together, let's create a compendium that stands the test of time.
Some further resources to help you on your leadership journey:
- Decoding Leadership: The Best 17 Books on Managing People
- 18 Best Servant Leadership Books: Serve To Lead
- 25 Leadership Books For New And Experienced Leaders To Read
- 10 Best Leadership Development Programs To Grow Future Leaders
- A Practical Guide To Servant Leadership With Examples
- Lead with Brevity: The 18 Must-Read Short Leadership Books
- Leading Ladies: 21 Best Leadership Books for Women
- 16 Best Business Leadership Podcasts
- The 22 Best Leadership Conferences