10 exceptional management books that could change your career

In his groundbreaking work „Lead, achieve, live“ Fredmund Malik offers a comprehensive overview of management, combining both theoretical and practical aspects. Malik, a renowned management expert, highlights the key factors for successful corporate management and shows how Managers make their organisations more effective.

The book is divided into three main sections:

• Lead: Here Malik presents the key principles that characterise a good manager. He covers topics such as staff management, Communication strategies and understanding individual strengths within a team.
• Mouldings: This section is about performance in organisations. Malik explains how important it is to set clear goals and achieve them systematically. The concept of goal setting and planning is discussed in detail.
• Life: The last part focuses on the balance between professional success and personal well-being. Here, it is made clear that sustainable success is only possible through a healthy working environment and personal satisfaction.

„Management means not only leading, but also achieving results and positively shaping the lives of employees.“ – Fredmund Malik

Malik's approach promotes a deep understanding of Change management and Resource management, by emphasising that Managers not only need to think strategically, but also need to be empathetic. This combination of skills helps to effectively overcome challenges in a business context.

Whether you are in a leadership position or aspire to be, your skills in the area of Corporate management, Crisis management or Innovation management – „Lead, Achieve, Live“ is an essential book for your personal library. It encourages reflection and offers valuable tools for improving your leadership skills.

Clear structure and practical examples!

„Lean Startup by Eric Ries is a groundbreaking book that helps companies stay innovative while minimising risk. At a time when markets are changing rapidly and new technologies are constantly emerging, this work offers practical guidance for founders and managers who want to increase the success of their products.

The central concept of the book comprises three fundamental principles:

• Build-Measure-Learn: This iterative process encourages companies to quickly develop a minimum viable product (MVP) and then test it on the market. The aim is to collect valuable feedback and continuously adapt the product.
• Validated learning processes: Ries emphasises the importance of experimentation and data collection. Through targeted analysis, companies can learn what really works and what doesn't – an essential skill in the field of Risk management.
• Pivot or Persevere: After analysing the feedback, companies must decide whether they should change their approach (pivot) or maintain it (persevere). This Step is crucial for long-term strategy development.

„The right mindset is crucial. It's not about finding the perfect solution; it's about testing the best hypothesis as quickly as possible.“ – Eric Ries

One particularly exciting aspect of the book is the reference to the digital age. Ries demonstrates how companies can optimise their processes by using modern technologies – a topic of great importance for the Facility Management.

Thanks to its clear structure and practical approaches, Lean Startup offers valuable insights for Managing Director as well as young entrepreneurs. It encourages flexible thinking in a dynamic environment and proactive development of innovative solutions.

For anyone interested in Corporate management, Innovation management or even Objectives and planning This book is essential reading for anyone involved in this field.

In „Die Entscheidung liegt bei dir!“ (The decision is yours!) by Reinhard K. Sprenger, a crucial message is conveyed: taking responsibility is the key to true success. Sprenger, a renowned management and leadership expert, encourages his readers to take control of their decisions and not simply accept circumstances as a given.

The book is divided into several exciting chapters that deal with various aspects of management and self-determination:

• Personal responsibility: Sprenger argues that real change can only be achieved through personal responsibility. He shows how individual decisions can positively influence the working environment and corporate management.
• Management style: The author highlights various leadership styles and their impact on employees and companies. An empathetic and supportive leadership style is emphasised as particularly effective.
• Change management: In times of change, it is essential that managers not only manage change, but also actively initiate it. Sprenger offers practical tips for implementing change management processes.

„Everyone can decide. The question is: Will you?“ – Reinhard K. Sprenger

One of the outstanding features of this book is its practical approach. Sprenger uses vivid examples from the business world to support his theses and show readers concrete options for action. This makes the book not only theoretically valuable, but also relevant to everyday life for managers in various industries.

For professionals in Personnel managementthat deal with Crisis management, Customer relationship management or even Resource management For those interested in this topic, this book offers valuable insights into the role of decision-makers in companies.

„The decision is yours!“ encourages reflection and promotes a proactive attitude towards challenges in business life.

„The Harvard Approach: The Classic Guide to Negotiation by Roger Fisher and William Ury is an indispensable work for anyone involved in the field of Conflict management and Communication strategy The authors present an innovative approach to negotiation based on cooperation and mutual understanding. This book has not only proven itself in academia, but is also valued by executives worldwide.

The four basic principles of the Harvard concept

• Treat people and problems separately: Fisher and Ury emphasise that it is important to block out personal emotions in negotiations. By focussing on the problems and not on the people, a constructive discussion can emerge.
• Interests instead of positions: Instead of taking fixed positions, the parties involved should disclose their interests. This promotes mutual understanding and creates space for creative solutions.
• Develop mutually beneficial options: In order to achieve a win-win situation, it is important to develop various possible solutions. The more options are presented, the greater the likelihood of finding a solution that is acceptable to both sides.
• Criteria Apply to evaluate solutions: An objective standard is crucial for fair decisions. Fisher and Ury recommend using standards that both parties can recognise as legitimate.

„Negotiation is an art of give and take – the key lies in cooperation.“ – Roger Fisher

One of the special features of this book is its practical application. The authors use numerous examples from different areas of life - whether in companies or in the private sphere - to support their arguments. This makes it clear that effective communication and negotiation skills are not only necessary in critical situations, but also in everyday life.

The Harvard concept not only offers valuable techniques for improving your skills in Management, It also promotes your personal development as a manager. It shows how targeted communication can help to avoid misunderstandings – an essential aspect of both human resources management and corporate management.

Therefore, „The Harvard Concept“ is not only worth reading, but also represents a valuable investment and offers you the opportunity to hone your negotiation skills and advance your career in (facility?) management.

„Scrum: The Art of Getting Things Done“ by Jeff Sutherland is a groundbreaking book that is particularly important for executives and project managers. In this work, Sutherland, one of the pioneers of agile methods, offers deep insight into the Scrum methodology and shows how this structure not only Efficiency not only increases productivity, but also strengthens team spirit within organisations.

The book is clearly structured and explains the basic principles of Scrum, which are relevant for both Project management as well as for Corporate management are decisive:

• Transparency: A key feature of Scrum is the creation of a transparent working environment. Sutherland explains how important it is that all team members are informed about progress and challenges.
• Collaboration: The focus is on teamwork. Regular meetings – known as „scrum meetings“ – ensure that everyone is pulling in the same direction.
• Iterative progress: Scrum promotes an iterative approach in which projects are worked on in small sections (sprints). This minimises risks and enables rapid adjustments.

„The simplest solutions are often the best. Reduce effort and increase value.“ – Jeff Sutherland

Sutherland backs up his arguments with numerous real-life examples in which companies have been able to realise their potential through the Implementation significant improvements with Scrum. He repeatedly emphasises the potential of this method in the context of the Change management, as it is ideally suited to changing market conditions.

Whether you are in IT management, in the Resource management or in the staff management Scrum: The Art of Making Things Simple offers valuable tools for improving your working methods. This book encourages you to question outdated processes and pursue innovative approaches.

Thanks to its clear language and practical tips, this book is a worthwhile investment in your career as a manager or project manager.

„Radikal digital (Radically Digital) by Reinhard Karger and his co-authors is a captivating work that explores the digital Transformation in companies and highlights their significance for management. In a world where technology is playing an increasingly central role, this book offers executives and managers valuable insights into how they can successfully master digital challenges.

The book is divided into several key topics that are of crucial importance for corporate management:

• Digital transformation: Karger explains what is meant by digital Transformation and why it is not only important for companies, but essential. Practical examples from various industries are used to make the change tangible.
• Technological trends: The book provides an Overview about current technological Developments such as artificial intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT) and Blockchain and explains how these technologies are actively being incorporated into Corporate strategy can be integrated.
• Cultural change: Another important point is the need for a change in the Corporate culture. Karger shows how an open and innovation-friendly Corporate culture can be created – a crucial aspect in Change management.

„The digital revolution is not a question of if, but how.“ – Reinhard Karger

One of the outstanding features of this book is its practical approach: the authors provide specific recommendations for implementing digital strategies in everyday business life. They encourage managers to boldly break new ground and recognise innovation potential – a key competence in modern Management.

„Radically Digital“ is aimed at anyone who works in the IT management, Project management or in the Corporate management and are willing to question their way of thinking. It encourages them not only to react to technological changes, but to actively shape them.

For those executives and managers who want to tackle the challenges of the digital world – whether in the field of Data management, Customer relationship management this book is a valuable read. It offers you a comprehensive toolkit for successfully navigating digital change.

In his book „The Five Dysfunctions of a Team“ Patrick Lencioni highlights the most common problems that prevent teams from working together effectively and achieving their goals. This work is not only important for managers, but also for any team member interested in improving collaboration.

Lencioni identifies five key dysfunctions that occur in many teams:

• Lack of trust: In an environment where employees are afraid to show weaknesses or ask for help, a vicious circle is created. Trust is the basis for any effective collaboration.
• Fear of conflict: Teams that are unable to engage in open discussions often avoid productive debates. This leads to unspoken issues and ultimately to dissatisfaction.
• Lack of commitment: If not all team members are involved in decisions, there can be a lack of commitment. A common understanding of the goals is essential.
• Irresponsibility: A team member can easily talk themselves out of it or abdicate responsibility if there are no clear responsibilities. Everyone should be responsible for each other.
• Inattentive to results: Finally, Lencioni emphasises that teams often run the risk of putting personal goals above team goals. Success can only be achieved if everyone is focussed on the common result.

„A good team is more than the sum of its parts.“ – Patrick Lencioni

Lencioni uses a captivating narrative style and presents his theories in the form of a fictional story about a management team. This approach makes the book not only informative but also entertaining – a combination that encourages readers to reflect on their own experiences and make possible improvements.

For managers in the field of staff management, Team leadershipor even in the Crisis managementThis book offers valuable insights into building a strong and effective team. Implementing Lencioni's principles can make a decisive contribution to increasing team performance and thus also to improving overall corporate management.

„The Path to Successful Entrepreneurship“ by Stefan Merath is an inspiring book aimed at anyone who has the courage to turn their entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Merath, himself a successful entrepreneur and coach, offers not only valuable insights into the art of entrepreneurship, but also practical tips on how to Corporate management.

The book is divided into several main subject areas:

• The right attitude: Merath emphasises that the key to entrepreneurial success lies in mindset. A positive and proactive way of thinking is crucial for overcoming challenges and achieving one's goals.
• Customer orientation: Understanding customers' needs and wishes is presented as a central pillar of business success. The author highlights how important it is to build relationships with customers and to maintain them continuously.
• Efficient Time management: Time management is crucial for every entrepreneur. Merath provides valuable strategies for time planning and task prioritisation – an essential aspect of effective Resource management.

„A successful entrepreneur thinks not only about profit, but also about creating added value.“ – Stefan Merath

One of the outstanding features of this book is the combination of theoretical approaches and practical examples. Merath illustrates his theories with stories from his own entrepreneurial career as well as case studies of other successful companies. This makes his advice comprehensible and applicable.

For aspiring entrepreneurs or experienced managers in Management, For those who want to take their business to the next level, „The Path to Successful Entrepreneurship“ offers valuable insights and inspiration. It encourages readers to not only rethink their strategic planning, but also to actively shape their personal development path as leaders.

This work is a worthwhile investment in your entrepreneurial journey. Read this book and be inspired – because you could be the next successful entrepreneur!

„How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie is a timeless classic that is not only considered a self-help book, but also provides indispensable lessons for Management Carnegie shows in his work how important interpersonal relationships are for personal and professional success. In a world where networking and teamwork are becoming increasingly important, Carnegie's principles offer valuable approaches for effective staff management and successful Communication strategies.

The key principles of the book

• Avoid criticism: Carnegie emphasises the importance of positive communication. Instead of Error Instead of criticising shortcomings, one should focus on highlighting the strengths of others. This promotes a positive working environment and strengthens trust within the team.
• Show interest: People feel valued when they realise that others are genuinely interested in them. Carnegie encourages managers to listen actively and show genuine interest in their employees' concerns.
• Use the name: A person's name is the most beautiful word to them. Carnegie emphasises how important it is to use other people's names – it shows respect and appreciation.

„The only way to win people over is to make them enjoy working.“ – Dale Carnegie

In his book, Carnegie uses numerous examples from everyday life and the business world to illustrate his principles. These practical stories make the content comprehensible and easy to apply.

Whether in the Crisis management, with the Objectives and planning, or at the Guidance of a team – „How to Win Friends“ provides valuable insights into improving your interpersonal relationships. Applying these principles can not only strengthen your communication skills, but also have a positive impact on your entire management career.

Dale Carnegie's work is a worthwhile investment in your personal development. Read this book and discover the power of interpersonal relationships in your professional life!

„Business Model Generation: A Handbook for Visionaries by Alexander Osterwalder and Yves Pigneur is an indispensable work for anyone involved in Corporate management and innovation. At a time when business models are changing rapidly, this book offers a structured method for developing and analysing business models. The authors, both experts in the field of knowledge management, present their concepts in an accessible and visual manner that is suitable for both experienced managers and newcomers to the business environment.

The book is divided into several key sections:

• The Business Model Canvas: This central tool enables companies to present their business models on a single page. It helps managers to consider all relevant aspects such as Customer relations, Sources of income and core activities to visualise and analyse.
• Innovation strategies: Osterwalder and Pigneur encourage us to constantly question existing models and find new ways forward. They offer various approaches to developing innovative business strategies – an important aspect in Change management.
• Collaboration and feedback: Another focus is on the importance of teamwork and the involvement of various stakeholders in the development process. The exchange of ideas not only promotes creativity, but also improves the chances of realising new concepts.

"The Future does not belong to those who know, “It's not about those who know how to do it, but those who are willing to do it." – Alexander Osterwalder

One of the outstanding features of this book is its combination of theory and practical examples. Numerous case studies from various industries give readers a realistic insight into successful business models. These practical insights are particularly valuable for managers in Financial management, Resource managementor even in facility management.

Whether you are an established entrepreneur or just starting your entrepreneurial journey, Business Model Generation offers valuable tools for adapting to changing markets. The book is available at Amazon.de and represents a worthwhile investment in your professional development.