A compilation of books you may find helpful as you progress in your program:
Fierce Conversations by Susan Scott. In this guide, which includes exercises and tools to take you step by step through the Seven Principles of Fierce Conversations, Scott teaches readers how to:
- Overcome barriers to meaningful communication
- Expand and enrich conversations with colleagues, friends, and family
- Increase clarity and improve understanding
- Handle strong emotions-on both sides of the table
Negotiating Rationally by Max Bazerman and Margaret Neale. Learn how to avoid the pitfalls of irrationality and gain the upper hand in negotiations. The authors identify strategies to avoid these pitfalls in negotiating by concentrating on opponents’ behavior and developing the ability to recognize individual limitations and biases. They explain how to think rationally about the choice of reaching an agreement versus reaching an impasse. A must read for ALL professionals
Strengths Based Leadership by Tom Rath. This book identifies three keys to being a more effective leader: knowing your strengths and investing in others’ strengths, getting people with the right strengths on your team, and understanding and meeting the four basic needs of those who look to you for leadership.
Thrive by Arianna Huffington. I think this is a must read when you need re-grounding. Arianna talks candidly about her own challenges with managing time and prioritizing the demands of a career and raising two daughters — of juggling business deadlines and family crises, a harried dance that led to her collapse and to her “aha moment.” Drawing on the latest groundbreaking research and scientific findings in the fields of psychology, sports, sleep, and physiology that show the profound and transformative effects of meditation, mindfulness, unplugging, and giving, Arianna shows us the way to a revolution in our culture, our thinking, our workplace, and our lives.
Thanks for the Feedback- The Science and Art of Receiving Feedback Well by Douglas Stone and Sheila Heen. I found this on the new book rack at Barnes & Noble. It was a spontaneous purchase and a great find if you ask me. Three important features: 1) Re-learn feedback so you use it to your advantage, 2) Feedback should be collaborative, & 3) You can always choose what to do with feedback. It is still up to the individual on the receiving end to accept or decline.
A Whole New Mind: Why Right-Brainers Will Rule the Future by Daniel Pink. This book was recommended reading during my PhD program. I picked it back up again for a refresher and I thought it was a great read the second time around. I think its applicable for students who want to know about trends related to intellect, vision, boundary crossing, and how companies are now seeking individuals with empathy and story telling abilities. We live in a complex and ever changing world. It’s time we started to think differently about progress and how to get there!
Knowing Your Value: Women, Money, and Getting What You’re Worth by Mika Brezezinski. I read this after attending the #knowyourvalue “road tour” conference held in Washington, DC. The book describes Mika’s steps, both positive and negative, in finally realizing her value. My favorite part is when she refers to her boss as the bad boyfriend. She has classic stories from women working in diverse, high-powered positions and their perspectives on value. I suggest all my students read this book before graduation and again about 1 year into their career. I will continue to read this because it’s fresh, honest, and applies to all women.