Summary:
Unprecedented business formation boom in the U.S. over the last three years.
Many startups fail, but successful ones learn from the best practices of predecessors.
Five impactful books recommended for future entrepreneurs and executives.
Graci Harkema’s memoir teaches about diversity and empowerment in the workplace.
John Doerr's book introduces the OKRs framework for effective business measurement.
The United States is experiencing an unprecedented business formation boom. According to federal data, more businesses have been founded in the past three years than ever since record keeping began. This trend indicates a steady rise in new enterprises.
However, many of these startups will fail within a few years, and only a few will truly thrive. The successful ones are often led by innovative and fearless founders who learn from the best practices of those who came before them.
Advice can come from various sources, including colleagues, industry peers, and even strangers who have built successful businesses. Here are five impactful books that offer actionable and practical advice for future entrepreneurs and executives:
1. Graci Harkema — Rising
Graci Harkema’s memoir, Rising: From a Mud Hut to the Boardroom — and Back Again, narrates her journey from poverty in Africa to success in American business. As a renowned consultant, she empowers her clients to think creatively about diversity, equity, and gender equality in the workplace.
2. Tammy Heermann — Reframe Your Story
In Reframe Your Story: Real Talk for Women Who Want to Let Go, Do Less and Be More—Together, Tammy Heermann shares insights to help women leaders overcome barriers and craft a powerful narrative for themselves. Her advice is rooted in sociological and psychological literature, making it both practical and relatable.
3. Michelle Ray — Leading in Real Time
Michelle Ray’s Leading in Real Time: How to Drive Success in a Radically Changing World teaches leaders how to connect authentically with their teams and foster transparency. Ray emphasizes that real-time leadership is essential for staying relevant in a world of constant change.
4. John Doerr — Measure What Matters
In Measure What Matters: How Google, Bono, and the Gates Foundation Rock the World with OKRs, John Doerr introduces the Objectives and Key Results (OKRs) framework. This method helps leaders quickly analyze what works and what doesn’t, enabling them to fail faster and succeed sooner.
5. Matt Abrahams — Think Faster, Talk Smarter
Matt Abrahams’ Think Faster, Talk Smarter: How to Speak Successfully When You're Put on the Spot provides techniques for effective communication, focusing on simplifying content and sharpening delivery. His lessons are applicable in various settings, from public speaking to everyday conversations.
The leaders of tomorrow are not born; they are taught. These books equip aspiring leaders with the knowledge and insights necessary to navigate the complexities of the business world, helping them to spot opportunities and engage effectively with their teams and competitors.
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