Are you in search of the best strategic leadership books?
Nowadays, the business world is constantly changing, and leaders should be equipped with the right knowledge to navigate these changes. For this reason, it is crucial to continuously learn and improve your leadership abilities.
In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 10 strategic leadership books. They will help you become a better leader and achieve success in the ever-evolving business landscape.
The 10 Best Strategic Leadership Books
Here are some of the best books on strategic leadership that you should add to your reading list. These books are available on Amazon. If you want to get them, their respective links are given below each description. Alright?
So, let’s go!
(Note: I earn a small commission when you make a purchase using these links at no extra cost to you.)
#1. The Art of Strategic Leadership: How Leaders at All Levels Prepare Themselves, Their Teams, and Organizations for the Future
By: Steven J. Stowell and Stephanie S. Mead
Who’s it for: Leaders at all levels
This book dives deep into the nuances of modern leadership, highlighting the criticality of preparation in today’s fast-paced environment. Stowell and Mead emphasize the importance of cultivating a strategic mindset across all levels of an organization. With practical advice and real-world examples, this book guides you to foster innovative and forward-thinking cultures in your organization.
#2. The 80/20 CEO: Take Command of Your Business in 100 Days
By: Bill Canady
Who’s it for: CEOs and business leaders
In this book, Canady helps leaders take control of their businesses and drive strategic growth. He shares a clear roadmap to identify and focus on the 20% of activities that will generate 80% of results. This is a must-read for any leader looking to shape their organization’s strategy and drive significant impact.
#3. Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things
By: Adam Grant
Who’s it for: Leaders looking to unlock their potential and inspire others
Grant, a renowned organizational psychologist, explores the concept of “originals” – those who challenge the status quo and drive innovation. This book delves into the science behind what drives individuals to think differently and take action on their ideas. It offers strategies for leaders to embrace their originality and create a culture of creativity within their teams.
#4. Strategic Leadership: Theory and Research on Executives, Top Management Teams, and Boards
By: Bert Cannella, Sydney Finkelstein, and Donald C. Hambrick
Who’s it for: Leaders at all levels within an organization
This comprehensive book covers the latest research and theories on strategic leadership. It provides insights for leaders to foster a culture of innovation and forward-thinking in their organizations. Whether you’re a CEO or a front-line manager, this book offers valuable lessons for enhancing your strategic leadership skills.
#5. Amp It Up: Leading for Hypergrowth by Raising Expectations, Increasing Urgency, and Elevating Intensity
By: Frank Slootman
Who’s it for: Leaders navigating rapid growth and change
Slootman draws on his experience leading hypergrowth companies to provide strategies for managing through periods of intense expansion. He emphasizes the importance of raising expectations, creating a sense of urgency, and maintaining high levels of intensity. So, you can drive success during times of rapid growth. This book is a must-read for leaders looking to navigate change and push their teams to new heights.
#6. Becoming a Strategic Leader: Your Role in Your Organization’s Enduring Success
By: Richard L. Hughes, Katherine M. Beatty, and David Dinwoodie
Who’s it for: Aspiring and current leaders looking to develop strategic thinking skills
This book offers practical tools and techniques for developing strategic thinking abilities, which are crucial in today’s complex business landscape. Here the authors provide frameworks and exercises to help readers identify their own strategic leadership styles. Plus, they help you understand the role of culture in strategy and effectively communicate vision. This is a must-read for anyone looking to take their leadership skills to the next level.
#7. Accelerate: Building Strategic Agility for a Faster-Moving World
By: John P. Kotter
Who’s it for: Leaders seeking to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing business environment
In today’s fast-paced world, traditional hierarchical methods of leadership are no longer effective. In this book, Kotter offers a new model for leading with agility, embracing change, and driving innovation. He outlines the steps and mindset needed to build a more flexible, nimble organization that can stand out. This is a must-read for leaders looking to succeed in today’s constantly evolving business landscape.
#8. The Six Disciplines of Strategic Thinking: Leading Your Organization into the Future
By: Michael D. Watkins
Who’s it for: Executives and managers looking to future-proof their organization
In this book, Watkins provides a comprehensive framework that can help leaders navigate uncertainty and drive long-term success. He delves into the six key disciplines of strategic thinking. They are understanding context, managing change, setting direction, creating alignment, inspiring commitment, and leading execution. With practical examples and exercises, this book is a valuable resource to respond to future challenges.
#9. The Upside of Uncertainty: A Guide to Finding Possibility in the Unknown
By: Nathan Furr
Who’s it for: Business leaders seeking to turn uncertainty into opportunity
In a constantly changing business landscape, uncertainty is inevitable. However, in this book, Furr argues that leaders can learn to embrace and even benefit from it. He shares powerful strategies for turning uncertainty into possibility, including reframing challenges as opportunities, leveraging experimentation, and creating flexible processes. This book offers a refreshing perspective for you to thrive in an unpredictable world.
#10. The Crux: How Leaders Become Strategists
By: Richard P. Rumelt
Who’s it for: Aspiring leaders and current managers looking to hone their strategic thinking skills
In this insightful book, Rumelt explores the key elements of effective strategy and how leaders can develop this vital skill. He delves into topics such as competitive advantage, focus, and active inertia. Plus, he provides real-world examples and practical guidance for leaders at all levels. This is a must-read book to become a more strategic thinker and drive your organization towards success.
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Final Words
In our rapidly evolving world, you must continually adapt, learning to thrive amid uncertainty and change. The insights provided by these books arm current and aspiring leaders with the tools they need to forge ahead. Plus, they can help you transform challenges into opportunities, and achieve enduring success. So, pick the right book for you and start reading!
FAQ: Strategic Leadership Books
You might have these questions in mind.
What is strategic leadership?
Strategic leadership refers to the ability to think and act strategically, creating plans for achieving long-term goals. It involves a combination of vision, critical thinking, and effective decision-making skills.
What makes these books stand out?
These books offer practical and actionable advice for leaders in an ever-changing world, making them highly valuable resources.
Are these books geared towards a specific type of leader?
No, these books are applicable to leaders of different levels and industries. The principles discussed in them can be applied to any organization or individual. So, whether you’re a CEO, manager, or team leader, these books have something to offer. Keep reading and honing your skills to become a successful strategist in an unpredictable world!
How to become a strategic leader?
Becoming a strategic leader requires continuous self-improvement and a willingness to learn. These books offer valuable insights, but it also takes practice and experience to develop strategic thinking skills. It’s important to stay informed about current trends, market changes, and industry developments. Moreover, you must consistently evaluate and adjust your plans.