Are you looking for the best people management books?
Whether you are a seasoned leader or a first-time manager, understanding the dynamics of employee management is key to achieving success in your role.
In this article, let’s see the 14 best books on managing people. These books offer insights from renowned business gurus and leaders, equipping you with skills to excel in employee management.
The 14 Best People Management Books
Here are some of the best people management books that you should read. These books are available on Amazon. If you want to get them, their respective links are given below each description. Alright?
So, let’s get started!
(Note: I earn a small commission when you make a purchase using these links at no extra cost to you.)
#1. Chief Inspiration Officer: How to Lead the Team Everyone Wants to Be On
By: Val Ries
Who’s it for: Leaders of all levels
This book provides valuable advice on creating an environment where team members feel valued and motivated to do their best work. Here the author, Val Ries offers practical tips on how to be more inspiring and create meaningful relationships with team members. With this book, you will learn how to become the inspiring leader that everyone wants to be on your team.
#2. People Operations: Automate HR, Design a Great Employee Experience, and Unleash Your Workforce
By: Jay Fulcher, Kevin Marasco, and Tracy Cote
Who’s it for: Business leaders wanting to streamline HR processes
This book shares the latest strategies for streamlining and automating HR processes to improve efficiency. Here the authors provide a comprehensive framework for designing great employee experiences and unleashing the full potential of your workforce. With this book, you will get actionable ideas on how to maximize productivity while creating an enjoyable work environment.
#3. Human Resource Management Essentials You Always Wanted To Know (Self-Learning Management Series)
By: Vibrant Publishers and Jaquina Gilbert
Who’s it for: Leaders and People managers looking to refine their HR skills
This book gives a comprehensive overview of the essentials of human resource management, from recruitment and selection to performance management and employee engagement. Here the authors provide practical advice on how to develop effective HR strategies that will help your business succeed. With this book, you will be equipped with the knowledge and tools you need to become an effective people manager.
#4. Making TIME for Strategy: How to be less busy and more successful
By: Richard Medcalf
Who’s it for: Busy leaders who want to improve their strategic thinking
In this book, you will see practical ideas to create time and space for strategic thinking in an increasingly busy world. Here the author provides tips and tricks on how to maximize efficiency so you can focus more on the big picture. With this book, you will gain invaluable insights into how to effectively manage your day-to-day tasks and still make time for your most important goals.
#5. The Making of a Manager: What to Do When Everyone Looks to You
By: Julie Zhuo
Who’s it for: First-time managers and leaders who want to do well in their new role
This is an excellent resource if you are new to your leadership role. Through personal anecdotes and actionable advice, Julie Zhuo outlines the common challenges and pitfalls that every new manager will face. She also provides practical tips on how to build trust with your team, delegate effectively, and develop a vision for the future. Whether you’re just starting out or have been in management for years, this book is a good read.
#6. Bad Apples: How to Manage Difficult Employees, Encourage Good Ones to Stay, and Boost Productivity
By: Brette Sember
Who’s it for: Managers and leaders wanting to improve their conflict resolution skills
This book can help you handle difficult employees and encourage good ones to stay. Here the author shows how to identify and manage negative behavior before it becomes a problem. He also provides practical advice on how to give constructive feedback and create a positive, productive work environment. With its focus on conflict resolution and team building, this book is helpful to create a respectful workplace.
#7. A Survival Guide to Managing Employees from Hell: Handling Idiots, Whiners, Slackers, and Other Workplace Demons
By: Gini Scott
Who’s it for: Leaders, Managers, or Supervisors wanting to manage difficult employees with confidence
In this book, the author Gini Scott provides valuable insights into identifying and handling problematic employees. It provides simple yet effective strategies to help you manage difficult employees, set boundaries, and foster better relationships between managers and their teams. This is a comprehensive guide that will help you create a more unified work environment.
#8. Supportive Accountability: How to Inspire People and Improve Performance
By: Sylvia Melena
Who’s it for: Managers and leaders looking to build trust and foster high-performance culture
In this book, Sylvia Melena offers a unique perspective on cultivating a positive workplace culture. The book underscores the importance of leaders maintaining accountability while fostering a supportive environment that motivates employees to perform better. It is an essential read for leaders seeking to strike the right balance between responsibility and encouragement in their people management strategy.
#9. The Culture Climb: How to Build a Work Culture that Maximizes Your Impact
By: Jaime Taets
Who’s it for: Leaders seeking to create an effective corporate culture
This is an excellent book that provides practical advice on how to build and maintain a strong corporate culture. In this book, Jaime Taets discusses the tools and strategies required for successful business transformation. From crafting the perfect team values to creating an employee feedback system, this book is filled with actionable steps that will help you create a strong workplace culture.
#10. The First-Time Manager
By: Jim McCormick
Who’s it for: First-time managers looking to develop their skills
In this book, Jim McCormick offers a comprehensive look at the fundamentals of management. The author covers all the key areas of managing people, from building relationships and motivating employees to solving conflicts and developing leadership skills. This is an invaluable resource for first-time managers striving to create a successful and satisfying work environment.
#11. Managing for People Who Hate Managing: Be a Success by Being Yourself
By: Devora Zack
Who’s it for: Managers looking for a lighter approach to people management
This book is a must-read for anyone who dislikes the idea of having to manage others. Here the author offers an innovative approach that allows managers to lead their teams without compromising their personal values and convictions. In addition, she provides clear advice on how to properly communicate with employees and get the best out of them. By following her tips, you’ll be able to develop an effective relationship with your team members.
#12. The Ideal Team Player: How to Recognize and Cultivate The Three Essential Virtues (J-B Lencioni Series)
By: Patrick Lencioni
Who’s it for: Leaders and Managers wanting to build a high-performing team
In this book, Patrick Lencioni argues that the key to creating an ideal team is finding the right people and cultivating their three essential virtues. He explains how each of these virtues can positively impact a team’s performance and provide valuable insight into how to identify individuals who possess them. If you want to create a high-performing team, this book will be your go-to guide.
#13. The Manager’s Path: A Guide for Tech Leaders Navigating Growth and Change
By: Camille Fournier
Who’s it for: Leaders and Managers looking to navigate progressive changes in their career
The Manager’s Path is a must-read guide for individuals transitioning into leadership roles. In this book, Camille Fournier provides practical advice on how to manage teams, create effective processes, and take the lead in any situation. Whether you’re just starting out in your career or are an experienced manager, this book will provide you with new ideas to become a successful leader.
#14. Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity
By: Kim Scott
Who’s it for: Leaders and Managers wanting to establish effective relationships with their employees
Kim Scott’s Radical Candor has become a worldwide best-seller. In her book, she explains the concept of ‘Radical Candor’ – combining caring personally with challenging directly. She explains how this approach can result in productive work environments and stronger connections between leaders and employees. With this book, you’ll learn how to become a leader that your team can trust and respect.
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Final Words
In the world of leadership, people management books serve as valuable resources. They offer insights, wisdom, and practical advice to help you navigate the challenges of managing a team. Investing time in these must-read books can significantly enhance your skills and understanding of employee management. So, dive into these enlightening reads, gain new perspectives, and get ready to lead with confidence, empathy, and effectiveness. Happy reading!
FAQ: People Management Books
You might have these questions in mind.
What are people management books?
These books are written to help leaders develop the skills and knowledge on managing employees. They discuss topics such as motivating employees, building trust, fostering collaboration, improving communication, and more.
Why should I read people management books?
These books provide invaluable insights that can guide you in leading your team. By reading these books, you will learn best practices and strategies to help you become an effective leader.
What are the best books on managing difficult employees?
Some of the best books for managing difficult employees are Bad Apples by Brette Sember and A Survival Guide to Managing Employees from Hell by Gini Scott.
How can I become a good people manager?
To become a good people manager, you need to develop effective communication skills, provide feedback and direction, build relationships, and foster a positive work environment. You can also read some books to help you hone your skills in employee management.
How to manage your staff effectively?
Some effective methods of managing your staff include setting clear expectations, providing feedback and recognition, fostering collaboration, and creating a culture of openness. You can also focus on developing trust between you and your team. By doing so, you can create a happier workplace and ensure better results.