There are thousands of unbelievably successful leaders who have written books highlighting exactly what they did that catapulted them to success. Many credit a major part of their success to studying the works of people they admire as well as the people they feel are most successful in the areas they want to master. Reading books by these leaders is one of the most effective ways to make your personal and professional life better. From boosting your confidence and interpersonal skills to improving your finances and time management, there are countless benefits when you make time to read these books. Here are a few of my top picks for self-improvement books.

Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill

Considered the “Granddaddy of All Motivational Literature,” this gem was first published in 1937 and examines what it takes to be a winner. To be successful in a construction career you need a combination of skills, but motivation is the key. This book has been a valuable resource for leaders since it was first published many years ago. You’ll find stories about how some of the greatest performers in history achieved their success and learn what it takes to follow in their footsteps.

Topgrading by Brad Smart

Jack Welch has long been considered to be one of the top business leaders of all time. He’s always felt that his top priorities as a CEO, were to hire the best talent and find a place for them. Once hired, you can quickly consider if they are an A, B, or C player then do your best to mentors Cs to Bs and Bs to As. Let go the Cs who don’t become Bs and retain the rest. Jack’s priorities are the basis of this book. Use this method to hire, coach, and build teams of A players. Topgrading tools and techniques are referred to as the platinum standard for recruiting, screening, interviewing and checking references of job candidates. According to case studies, you can improve your hiring success rates by up to 85% just by using these tools, but more importantly, reduce the enormous cost of mis-hires and help build a more profitable business. In addition to this book, Topgrading Inc. also offers workshops, coaching, and software.

Good to Great by Jim Collins

In this book, Jim Collins examines how companies make the leap from good to great. After researching several elite companies, Collins found that they shared some key traits in common including a special type of leadership, transcending the curse of confidence, and a culture of discipline. Companies that attempt radical change programs fail more often than not.

Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey

This book is a great resource for helping you solve issues in your personal and professional life. Covey offers a step-by step guide that focuses on fairness, integrity, service, and human dignity.

How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

It’s easier to achieve success in a construction career when people like you. It’s a must read for leaders because it provides several ways to win people over and how to align them with your thinking.

The E-Myth by Michael Gerber

Gerber provides instructions on how to apply the lessons of franchising to a business even if it’s not a franchise. In order to build a successful brand, first you need to know the steps in the life of a business. It’s important to know the difference between working on your business and working in your business.

 

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