I heard a sad joke about American entrepreneurs during my travels in Europe a few months back. A speaker asked the audience “How do you hide a secret from an American?” Then she took a dramatic pause and said “You write it in a book.” People laughed. I didn’t.
To say the least, that comment pissed me off. Instead of making a scene (I was scheduled to speak to the same audience of female entrepreneurs only hours later), I decided it was better to take a stance. And that is what this post is all about… believe it or not, ALL the secrets to success, happiness, you name it, reside in books. No single book will ever have it all, but as you read more and more you will find a common thread that resonates with you. And that thread IS the secret.
As always, I reached out to the TPE community to get their suggestions, and they compiled this amazing list. And YES, some books are mentioned multiple times — since they have varying thoughts backing them. Enjoy the list, pick some up, and get reading!!!
Why It’s A Must Read: I bought this book when Kim was the guest speaker at the Grand Traverse Women’s Expo a few months ago.If you’re looking for straight from the gut jolt to get you motivated to take that first step to starting your own business — then this book is for you. She bold, honest and loaded with business savvy advise.
Why It’s A Must Read: I have found that the most effective books apply to both men and women businesspeople equally. Jim Collins’ Built to Last and the followup, Good to Great, is the cornerstone of my corporate philosophy and helped us stay self-financed and successful for 10+ years. Businesswomen should avoid the “how to juggle career & motherhood” books; they make you feel like a victim instead of a leader. Rather focus on titles that stand the test of time!
Why It’s A Must Read: While Eveolution focuses primarily on the mechanics of how to market to women, the book re-defines the way a company can create profitable and long-term relationships with consumers (especially women). I routinely refer to Faith’s “better business” trends & marketing principals found in Eveolution. This is a must-read of very powerful stuff for the sister-hood of women entrepreneurs!
Why It’s A Must Read: Early in my entrepreneurial career, I worked non-stop in the job – being the ultimate Technician and proud of it. And time became my most precious resource to get it all done. “The E-Myth Revisited” by Michael Gerber changed all that for me. I now manage systems, outsource wherever possible, find time to work ON my business and have discovered the secrets to prospering in body, bank and soul.
Why It’s A Must Read: Every woman entrepreneur needs to read The E Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber. It clearly and quickly shows you the pitfalls to avoid when going out on your own and even better, illustrates them with a parallel example story of a female entrepreneur that I think a lot of women can relate to. I read it in batches as my dog played at the dog park and I had as much fun as he did.
Why It’s A Must Read: This awesome book by Robyn Spizman is a step by step guide to developing what makes you unique-your signature style. A must read for any women entrepreneur!
Why It’s A Must Read: Here is a fantastic book all female entrepreneurs and executives should read: “If You Don’t Have Big Breasts, Put Ribbons on Your Pigtails: And Other Lessons I Learned from My Mom” from Barbara Corcoran.
Barbara understands how the world works, and how to make the most of what you’ve got. I thought it was funny, sad and inspiring. She is a true inspiration to all women.
Why It’s A Must Read: If you want to grow a self-sustaining business, you must read The E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber. We women fill so many different roles in our daily lives that we often try to do it all in our businesses. Don’t.
This book completely changed my mindset. I went from dreading each day to loving my work. Today, I find shaping the business itself as rewarding as delivering creative services.
Gerber’s classic dispels the E-Myth and helps you plot a course for success.
Why It’s A Must Read: Frances Hesselbein was a mentee of Peter Drucker. This 90-something leader is still going strong, speaking internationally, and helping women leaders and entrepreneurs all over the world. Here is the must read:
“The Leader of the Future” written with Marshall Goldsmith
She’s inspiring and practical; there is no end to her energy!
Why It’s A Must Read: Written by Stephanie Chandler, a former sales professional from Silicon Valley turned book publisher invited her associates to collaborate on this value-driven business book. This title walks the entrepreneur through almost every phase of getting started to up and successfully running. Reading this book will save much grief and will help you advance the learning curve far more quickly. A small investment for big time results!
Why It’s A Must Read: I recommend Escape from Cubicle Nation: From Corporate Prisoner to Thriving Entrepreneur by Pamela Slim. Not only does Slim provide practical and applicable advice, she also provides insight on how to navigate through fear, uncertainty and doubt. Throughout are exercises, stories from the trenches, and solid information to make the journey fun, exciting, and delightful. Wonderful read for employed and entrepreneurs alike.
Why It’s A Must Read: Dr. Pat Heim and her associate Dr. Susan Murphy are amazing experts on women in the workplace. Pat was a speaker for a seminar I arranged and she was the top speaker out of 30 plus people. Her presentation was full of information that both women and men could use to be more effective in business. She is not a theorist but a practical leader. This book is great!
Why It’s A Must Read: I believe this is a MUST read not just for women and maybe MORE for women because the books heart is about a healthy, strong self image. Women struggle with this far more than men just because it’s the world we live in.
“Think” Playboy, “Think” Hollywood,
“Think” Ozzie and Harriet.
With-out a strong healthy self image, one that can handle the success we see for ourselves we will never sustain OUR DREAM!
Why It’s A Must Read: Anita is pure inspiration for women entrepreneurs. She was a trailblazer, outspoken and broke the rules! More importantly, she was widely-respected for standing by her values and taking the high road when it came to being socially responsible and doing what’s right for the customer. This wasn’t always the quickest way to make money but Anita proved with The Body Shop – you can run your company morally and still be wildly successful!
Why It’s A Must Read: When you’re wearing multiple hats as an entrepreneur… boss one minute, customer service rep the next, learning to adapt and communicate with all kinds of people the way THEY want to be communicated with is critical. You’ll never look at body language the same way after reading this book. I can’t help but notice when people have established rapport just by the cross of their arms or legs. It’s fascinating and an invaluable communication tool.
Why It’s A Must Read: Vicki Leon includes true tales told with great humor ( got to have that humor to make it as an entrepreneur!) of highly successful, outrageous women, living their lives out loud, throughout the ages.
Why It’s A Must Read: Sell Yourself Without Selling Your Soul is a MUST READ for every woman entrepreneur. It’s about communicating—to customers, the public, potential JV partners, other entrepreneurs. We must communicate who we are, what we do, and why it matters, or go OUT of business. Susan teaches you to do that with style, panache, integrity, with a message that’s true to your brand, with the ability to make a difference while making money.
Why It’s A Must Read: This book by Seth Godin was great for me since I don’t have a marketing background. It totally gave me a different perspective on marketing in a simple to understand way. Some of the concepts seem like total common sense but are easy to overlook.
Why It’s A Must Read: Martha Stewart is a powerful woman who definitely knows how to grow a business. Inside, Martha demonstrates how to research to find you target niche, how to start a business, how to grow one, marketing, branding, and so much more. It is written in her no-nonsense tone and straight from the hip – would we expect anything less.rnrnThis Business Bible (as I call it) is a must-have whether starting a website, an internet company, or a cookies by mail catalog (great for tactile businesses too!!)
Why It’s A Must Read: The book points out that successful women entrepreneurs have one thing in common: money isn’t the main driver for running their business. They do it for the passion. However, this doesn’t mean they shun spreadsheets and ignore the numbers. In fact, women owners know their numbers as well as any other executive.
Women-controlled business are twice as likely to stay in business than any other. They also value profits more than revenue. The book has great tidbits and inspires.
Why It’s A Must Read: A bible and a MUST have for women entrepreneurs is “The Mom Inventors Handbook” by, Tamara Monosoff. It literally really was my bible and inspiration, as I progressed from my idea, into a prototype, manufacturing and sales. Every website I needed under the sun was listed. All areas, topics and questions that I had were answered to bring my idea to reality. This book was truly perfect guide!
Why It’s A Must Read: For my money, Michael Gerber’s The E-Myth is far and away my favorite. While it’s been poked, prodded, revised & retitled The E-Myth Revisited, I still think it’s the best book on small business ever written.
I’ve personally made important business decisions, bought & sold entire businesses and generated millions in sales and profits by following the advice in this book.
Why It’s A Must Read: I recommend MAKE A NAME FOR YOURSELF: 8 Steps Every Woman Needs to Create a Personal Brand Strategy for Success by Robin Fisher Roffer. I strongly believe that identifying and then building on one’s brand is very important — and more so for women because they need to understand that it’s okay to compete and that they can compete “comfortably” by promoting their own brand.
Why It’s A Must Read: I really enjoyed this book because it sheds new light on how to create excitement and bring the spotlight to your company. It gives you real world examples to use and think about in a new way. For example, the author created a protest screen and invited the press, and they came. When you are starting a business and have to be jack of all trades real-world examples give you a real jumpstart to accomplishing your goals without spending alot of time because the example incites creative thoughts.
Why It’s A Must Read: I would recommend The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren. As I was in a transition in my life to deciding what I wanted to be when I “grow up”, this book helped me focus on what really was my purpose in life. It enabled me to make a successful transition and find my true purpose. I highly recommend this book for everyone!
Why It’s A Must Read: 7 Success Secrets for Women in Business. Bags to Riches – Linda Hollander, the weathly bag lady.
This book is written by a successful woman entreprenuer and thus from a woman’s perspective. Men and women look at and do business very differently. She outlines how to begin your business from getting a supporting team, mentors, networking organizations to how to package your business image. Fantastic book for beginning and struggling businesses.
Why It’s A Must Read: So You Want to be a Work at Home Mom by Jill Hart is the best and most honest book I’ve ever read about what it’s like to start a business. If I had found this book when I first decided to work at home, I would have been saved a lot of unnecessary tears and sleepless nights because of my unrealistic expectations. Starting a business is like becoming a mother – no one tells you how hard it would be because you wouldn’t believe them anyway. This book tells the truth, and offers a lot of hope.
Why It’s A Must Read: This is one of the few entrepreneur books that I’ve read written by women. What’s unique about this book is that it does give advice from a woman’s point of view and I do think that sometimes we think differently than men – so it’s a good thing. For example, celebrate your bills rather than feeling stressed by them – celebrate that you can pay them.
Why It’s A Must Read: I usually don’t have time for reading these days, but when I do I look for the very best entrepreneurial titles that can really teach me something. I highly recommend Joyce Bone’s Millionaire Moms and another great read is Tamara Monosoff’s Secrets of Millionaire Moms. Both books offer great advice and unique perspective for entrepreneurial women!
Why It’s A Must Read: Og Mandino’s “The Greatest Salesman in the World”
is a classic, a must-read for all entrepreneurs, but especially for women, who will be inspired by quotations like this: “I am a lion and I refuse to talk, to walk, to sleep with the sheep.”
Why It’s A Must Read: I enjoyed “Secrets of Six-figure Women” so much that I ordered several copies to gift to my friends who are Entrepreneurs. Barbara’s book gives the “inner truth” of how these women sometimes feel overwhelmed and also have to overcome fears to succeed and reach their goals. I also love how she gives us a peek into the stories of these women and shows us how their passions drove them to succeed. Overall, one of my all-time favorite entrepreneurial books.
Why It’s A Must Read: The first book in a long time that left me feeling empowered and inspired was The Internet Mommy! Women online for business, for personal, for sanity, for education; Moms with a goal or purpose while using the internet to further their career {momprenuer}, to blog, to interact with friends, family, and co-workers, to build relationships or make money…no matter why you decided to enter the internet world, as a mom, we are all on the same level and need some inspiration to keep going! Brilliant
Why It’s A Must Read: So many times I’ve had tears in my eyes turning the unmissable pages. I’ve just read ‘The E Myth Revisited’ by Michael Gerber. It’s the I wish I had book for me as yes, I wish I had put it in a time machine and sent it back to the day before I first became an Entrepreneur. Happy reading TPE’s.
Why It’s A Must Read: This is an essential read not only for women in business, but for life. Zig offers practical, wise solutions for succeeding in any business and for helping each person discover who they truly are. Zig offers extraordinary teachings in the world of business & sales and possesses a profound wisdom in how a person should live their life.
I am continually inspired by his message, the depth of his philosophy and his profound outlook on life.
Why It’s A Must Read: By Lisa Jimenez (a business owner herself) she talks openly and honestly about balancing all the roles women have especially doing business in a “man’s world” while keeping your innate femininity. Inspiring and totally relate-able; it’ll help you in your thinking around money, fears, relationships, and business overall.
Why It’s A Must Read: The second best entrepreneurs book ( after all this is the TPE blog) is the E-MYTH by Michael Gerber. This is the book that has been responsible for bringing Operating Systems to small business. If you ever want to grow past the start-up stag your business needs systems and the E-MYTH will show you the way.
Why It’s A Must Read: This book went far beyond the usual “be organized – be professional” mantras from the other advice-for-entrepreneur books I’ve read. “My So-Called Freelance Life” by Michele Goodman feeds a lot of bite-size information that packs a powerful punch if you’ll take the time to digest it. In fact, so many ideas started flowing after I read it that I referred back to it for several weeks as I used her ideas to tweak my productivity.
Why It’s A Must Read: The very best book for women entrepreneurs is 10-10-10 by Suzy Welch. It is inspiring and nurturing. It makes you think about your life, your business, your future. You will think about every decision you make in a completely different way after reading Suzy’s book. I know so many women, including myself, who have been forever changed by Suzy’s words of wisdom.
Why It’s A Must Read: BY FAR, the absolute best book I have EVER read for female entrepreneurs would be the incredibly inspiring, compelling, and informative book by Maxine Clark, founder of the entertaining Build-A-Bear Workshop, called The Bear Necessities of Business: Building a Company with Heart. I read this book in almost a single sitting. It is so well written and so accessible, I couldn’t recommend a better book for other women interested in getting into business for themselves.
Why It’s A Must Read: I would have to say today the best book aside from “Think & Grow Rich” would be “The Leadership Wisdom of Jesus, Practical Lessons for Today” by Charles C. Manz
We get so caught up in the (excuse the term) crap it is time to step up with integrity in the way we conduct business. Businesses have tried to do it other ways, why not try this. I have and have seen the business grow!
Why It’s A Must Read: Gender factors into so many workplace challenges. Although men and women are fundamentally different, we lack “PC” strategies to address these difference.
I recommend The Way of the Superior Man – by David Deida. Written for men, this book outlines how men and women are fundamentally different. It provides tangible, actionable strategies for setting men (and thus women) up for greater success.
Why It’s A Must Read: The Girl’s Guide to Starting Your Own Business. Candid Advice, Frank Talk and True Stories for the Successful Entrepreneur by Caitlin Friedman and Kimberly Yorio
I love this book because it’s a no-nonsense, honest and funny book written in a frank, open style just as if your best girl-friend was giving you advice. It’s broken down in a clean order that’s easy to reference and jump to portions you need, whenever you need them. It gives great referrals to outside sources as well!
Why It’s A Must Read: One of my favorite business books (written by two women) is Attracting Perfect Customers: The Power of Strategic Synchronicity. Although it may seem a little “new-agey”, there is an incredibly important lesson to be learned about who your ideal customers should be and how to focus on attracting them. It’s an easy, fun read with some thought-provoking exercises. Read the book and learn what it means to be a lighthouse for your customers.
Why It’s A Must Read: The e-myth re-visited is without doubt one of the best books for small business whether you are a man or a woman.
As usual, Michael Gerber, has told the small business story in a way that only he can.
It is a straight-forward, easy read that slowly but surely pulls together all of the most important aspects of being a small business owner in a way that we can all understand and, move forward to implement.
Why It’s A Must Read: As a woman entrepreneur, “The Ultimate Vision Board Book” by Joyce Schwartz. In a time where I was hesitant to ‘jump off the entrepreneurial cliff’ into that scary, unpaid, no-client-having 1st month abyss…a friend gave me that book. She didn’t want to hear my whine about starting my own company anymore! She was right. I read it, created my own board and career dream visualization…and the law of attraction started working its magic.
Why It’s A Must Read: The best book for women (or men) entrepreneurs is one called ‘Money Making Secrets of Marketing Genius’ Jay Abraham. Jay pioneered the idea of the Lifetime Value of your average customer. Knowing that number tells how you much you can afford to spend to land a customer. Jay is a genius at leveraging relationships, acting as a matchmaker between two or more other entities, and structuring a deal where everyone benefits.
Why It’s A Must Read: After I read and applied the info in the book Dianetics, my business stats skyrocketed. Interesting to suggest to read a book on mental health could help a company, but if you fix the loose nuts in your head, your business will boom!
Why It’s A Must Read: The one book that has helped me the most when I first started my business was the “HTML Goodies” book! It allowed me to learn basic code and to create a basic website. It is simple and easy to understand and read. I highly recommend it. To this day I use it for quick referencing when I am working on a specific page and I get stumped. When I was able to afford a professional design, I upgraded, but I can save and maintain my own website!
Why It’s A Must Read: Lower Your Taxes–Big Time! by Sandy Botkin. I would almost say it reads like a novel. I read it cover-to-cover. It is concise, easy-to-read, and references the actual tax code. There are no grey areas. Think you’re writing off everything you can? Think again. LOVED this book! I’m giving it to my accountant (and everyone else!) this year for Christmas.
Why It’s A Must Read: For a variety of reasons, most women enter the business world with a greater need to understand anger than their male counterparts. It is important for us to discover, accept, analyze, control, and use anger to our best advantage. Our natural inclination to avoid anger sets us up to be easily manipulated to make choices that are not in our best business interest.
Why It’s A Must Read: “Sell Yourself Without Selling
Your Soul: A Woman’s Guide to Promoting Herself, Her Business, Her
Product, or Her Cause with Integrity and Spirit” by Susan Harrow
As the author of Principled Profit: Marketing That Puts People First, I was attracted to the title because of its emphasis on ethics and personal integrity–and I stayed for the solid, practical, hands-on advice for self-promotion.
Why It’s A Must Read: Mommy Millionaire by Kim Levine, is a must read if you are thinking of, or are in the process of starting a business! It is a how-to guide with lots of practical advice, interwoven with Kim’s story of launching a successful home business from her kitchen table. With her lists of resources, links and checklists you’ll be well on your way to becoming a Mommy Millionaire!
Why It’s A Must Read: I recommend “Hard Won Wisdom” by Fawn Germer as a necessary and motivational eye-opener for women. Since entrepreneurs are leaders and successful business people, this book features stories from several women who “made it” whether in a corporation or as a business owner. The women interviewed for the book shared information that can benefit any woman who faces challenges in the business world and needs some motivation to keep pushing forward.
Why It’s A Must Read: I love the book, Nice Girls DO Get The Sale by Elinor Stutz.
She simply lays out the power we women have in business by being ourselves instead of the uptight facade so many women put on to compete with the “big boys”. It’s a great starter-to-experienced woman entrepreneurs’ dream book, because Elinor lays out each step on how we can still be “Nice Girls” and use it to our advantage.
Why It’s A Must Read: “The Law of Attraction and Other Secrets of Visualization” offers simple and practical tips for changing habits, positive thinking, overcoming fear, and for planning and organization.
One of the best parts for women is the DESIRE GRAPH which teaches about how to prioritize and determine proper perspective. Especially important for women with businesses.
Why It’s A Must Read: I suggest reading Ladies Who Launch: An Innovative Program That Will Help You Get Your Dreams Off the Ground, by Victoria Colligan and Beth Schoenfeldt. This energetic read gets you off your behind an not just launching (or doing!) – but working entrepreneurial life with a great sense of balance. If a woman entrepreneur follows the advice given in the book, she will find herself not only being an incredible entrepreneur, but a great many other things she has always wanted to be.
Why It’s A Must Read: Mommy Millionaire by Kim Lavine is a must have for women trying to create a business from their idea. She started the Green Daisy label by creating a company to sell ‘comfy pillows’. The best things about the book is it isn’t a ‘follow this mold and get rich’ scheme. She talks long and hard about how she overcame her failures along the way. Which is CRUCIAL for first time business owners because that’s what they face everyday.
Why It’s A Must Read: Reaching out to others, open and clear communication, having fun with other people, and creating real relationships are the keys to a successful life and business. One of the best books to help you improve the way you do this, or to get you to start building relationships is Keith Ferrazzis “Whos Got Your Back”. he has another book that is absolutely fabulous too, but Mike asked for 1 suggestion.
Why It’s A Must Read: Women who transition from running households to running businesses are used to doing everything themselves. This leads to women working “in their businesses” vs. “on their businesses”, creating businesses that look more like jobs than entities with equity value (e.v.= if the entrepreneur gets hit by a bus, her business still exists). This book focuses on automating and delegating, a valuable message for anyone seeking to create a stand-alone business that is not dependent upon her alon
Why It’s A Must Read: If a woman entrepreneur is going to make one big mistake, it is in focuing more on the internal workings of her business than on the external — marketing and public relations. In “Promote Like A Pro,” Linda Radke explains how to promote effectively and inexpensively. For example, she talks about timing your publicity to a newsworthy event. She explains how becoming a “public speaker” increases your credibility and visibility. The second half of the book contains helpful tips from experts.
Why It’s A Must Read: My mother and I both found this book so valuable in building our business in that as women we often overlook what we are bringing to our company’s brand promise that is inherent in our own personalities. This is also a fantastic book if you are interested in becoming an entrepreneur; it walks you through the process of determining your values and personal mission statement that will help in determining if the business you are interested in entering into is really aligned with your purpose.
Why It’s A Must Read: I am a huge fan of “How to Wow” by Frances Cole Jones. The book shares practical insights on how to present yourself in the best light. Tips as where to hold your hands in a meeting, where to stand during a presentation and what words to choose, have helped me to excel. The book is easy to read and filled with ideas you can instantly incorporate into your daily life. I have purchased these books to share with friends and colleagues.
Why It’s A Must Read: Any female entrepreneur who dreams and plays big, but may feel as if she is not getting what she wants in business should read this book. Chris Fleet, a reformed Alpha Male, doesn’t mince words in his portrayal about how the alpha male thinks and acts by divulging his ‘playbook’ secrets. He also pens precise commentaries on the typical cast of male and female characters in business and the roles they play in relation to the Alpha Male.
Why It’s A Must Read: The book that is a winner (one of many actually) 7 Success Secrets for Women in Business by Linda Hollander, the Wealthy Bag Lady
This book has a mix of inspiration as well as tangible business advise women entrepreneurs can use to grow their businesses. Now that it’s on my mind, I’m inspired to go back and review the sections I’ve highlighted in the past.
Why It’s A Must Read: Read “The E-Myth Revisited” by Michael Gerber.
As women, we tend to try to do everything (or at least too much) on our own. Michael Gerber illustrates how we can work ON our business rather than IN it on a daily basis – the recipe that’s needed to reach the “freedom” (time and financial) that most entrepreneurial women just dream of.
Why It’s A Must Read: Too often in life, women entrepreneurs focus on the needs of others and their businesses but neglect ourselves. When I read Fran Hewitt’s The Power of Focus For Women, I realized I had to focus on building myself up on the inside so that I could help not only my business but others as well. Without focus, we can never achieve our dreams and goals or grow our businesses to the fullest. This book is a must read for women entrepreneurs interested in moving to the next level in business and life.
Why It’s A Must Read: Suzy Welch wrote the amazing book, “10-10-10″ which offers a easy-to-apply tools for making tough decisions simple, finding clarity amid life’s chaos. It’s a fairly short read & uplifting whether you are a career woman, entrepreneur or stay-at-home mom.
Why It’s A Must Read: “Soul Of A New Machine” is a classic story of building a product, even though it’s within a big company, and a study of teams and how they work.
Why It’s A Must Read: I would say that Mommy Millionaire is one of the best resources and tools for entrepreneurs who have a product idea and want to start a home based business…from product concept to prototype to production. The book lists step by step, what you’ll need to do, to get your business off the ground and bring your product to market. The author is enthusiastic, inspirational, and no nonsense. She gets to the point and is completely honest. This is an inventor must.
Why It’s A Must Read: I recommend Leap 101 Ways To Grow Your Business by Stephanie Chandler — excellent book with solid advice and concrete suggestions.
Why It’s A Must Read: No matter who you are, or what business you are in, the inner game is the single most important component to your success.
The classics build a strong foundation – How to Win Friends and Influence People, Think & Grow Rich, As a Man Thinketh (yeah, it works just as well for women), and Zen and the Art of Happiness, along with the good book have all the wisdom necessary to build great success.
And of course – The Toilet Paper Entrepreneur – great fundamentals.
Why It’s A Must Read: My “bible” has been Dr. Alan Weiss’ “Getting Started in Consulting”. It’s not only a common sense approach to consulting, he does an excellent job of explaining the logic to his process. Most people believe consultants need to work slave like hours to survive. He proves you only have to work smarter and not harder.
If you possess the talent and the drive, you can’t go wrong in your business after reading this book.
Why It’s A Must Read: In the spirit of being provocative, I recommend that women entrepreneurs seeking more business and career success read: “The Power of Nice” by Linda Kaplan Thaler and Robin Koval. This book does a wonderful job of highlighting the best and worst ways that we women can be unconsciously giving away versus fully stepping up and into our power!
Why It’s A Must Read: I am part of a women’s organization called Savor the Success, which is truly amazing. The Toilet Paper Entrepreneur book has become a staple for the women in the group because it is a no-nonsense, hearty, thoughtful & very down and dirty approach to business. It has all the essential elements, & a few extra, for the entrepreneur to get where they need and want to go. I think Mike Michalowicz, really found a way to speak to women & give them what they need to succeed.
Why It’s A Must Read: Author and negotiation expert William Ury subtitled this book – How to Say No and Still Get to Yes. I recommend it because women are sometimes are expected or expect themselves to care about people’s feelings at the expense of their own goals/needs.
This book both repositions that view and teaches you how to establish credibility, an equal footing, and great negotiation skills. I highly recommend this book to all entrepreneurs and especially women.
Why It’s A Must Read: Smart Women Finish Rich, by David Bach caught my attention at the book store because it featured a woman lounging by the pool; I thought to myself: that should be me! The book features 9 steps to achieving financial security and funding for your dreams, along with real life stories/scenarios from the female clients the author advices. It also gives you tools for spending wisely, establishing security, and aligning your funds with your goals/values. Definitely a great find!
Why It’s A Must Read: The book, Secrets of Six Figure Women by Barbara Stanny is a MUST READ for any woman in any business field. Do not let the title deceive you – it’s not just about money. This book gives tips from women who are successful in all professions…some make 6 figures, but most follow the success secrets that make them wealthy mentally, physically and spiritually.
Why It’s A Must Read: The Magic of Believing by Claude Bristol (written in the 1940’s) is a must for everyone women entrepreneur. This book helps to explain the power of belief and how you must believe in you before anyone else can believe in you. I truly appreciate how Bristol shares his personal stories and the power of the human brain way before modern science had proven that power.
Why It’s A Must Read: I find “The Girls Guide to Building a Million-Dollar Business” a gold mine for women in business.
The author Susan Wilson Solovic provides a very transparent, easy to follow map for women seeking to start or grow a business. She points out that many women start businesses each year, but very few are able to break into the seven figure realm. It’s a must read.
Why It’s A Must Read: Read Internet Riches by Scott Fox. I bought this book with the idea of creating a social network for return to work moms. Little did I know, after devouring the pages, that my idea would emerge into much more. Through written exercises, Scott Fox forces the reader to narrow in on the audience, problem facing the audience, and the solution one is going to provide. It helps to flush out a concept and then reveals the resources to make it a reality.
Why It’s A Must Read: Real Power: Business Lessons from the Tao Te Ching
This is by far one of the most insightful business books I’ve read. This book uses ancient wisdom from parts of the Tao Te Ching and then skillfully applies them to various business situations.
Real Power reminds us that tapping into our own wisdom is the most important resource that all us entreprenuers have. Listening to our gut feelings, our intuition, is something that most of us women entrepreneurs do naturally!
Why It’s A Must Read: A little gem that I read is ” The Collaborator Rules” by Sally Shields. Even though the book is geared toward authors and co-authors – it is a fun, easy to read book that is loaded with essential information that is required to be successful in any relationship, business or otherwise. It is funny, insightful and full of great tips that we can use in developing our businesses. We all know that any successful business venture is build on networking and great relationships.
Why It’s A Must Read: What’s Holding You Back? Eight Critical Choices for Women’s Success by Linda Austin. This book details the reasons women delay their success – largely it’s because we are unwilling/unskilled at risk-taking. Only those who are willing to risk and fail every truly succeed. Men seem inherently more willing to take bigger risks, which benefits them enormously in business. The women who learn and are willing to embrace risk in the same way will be the ones who achieve greatness.
Why It’s A Must Read: The book that has made the greatest impact on me as I’ve started my own business has been Barbara Stanny’s “Secrets of Six-Figure Women.” It’s filled with wise (and often surprising) advice from women who are at the upper end of their respective professions. It’s given me the courage to take chances, the confidence to ask for more and the conviction to know that I have what it takes to succeed. It’s been an invaluable asset on my journey.
Why It’s A Must Read: In this book, “Your Idea, Inc.: 12 Steps to Building a Million Dollar Business – Starting Today!”: you will get the 12-step plan you need to make your new product or service a profitable reality. You will learn important skills for success!
Why It’s A Must Read: The book Career and Corporate Cool by Rachel Weingarten is a great book for women entrepreneurs! It’s not your typical business book it’s smart, witty and to the point telling you to figure out who you are as an entrepreneur and stick with it. She teaches you the essential elements how to succeed and stand out in a modern working environment with the boys. She says to be someone people admire and that business is about passion not just a business suit or just another way to pay the bills.
Why It’s A Must Read: It is important that all entrepreneurs understand what their belief system is. In my experience, no matter what my conscious mind recommended what smart decisions and actions were, my belief system always got in the way. The difference between brainstorming and masterminding is that brainstorming is the connection made with belief systems in mind and masterminding is more of the art of exploration and experimentation because your belief system, full of developed theory, does not exist.
Why It’s A Must Read: My all time favorite business book is Micheal Gerber’s, E-myth Revisted. Powerful tools to take a business forward toward Success. Then grab Susan Wilson Solovic’s, The Girl’s Guide to Building a Million-Dollar Business. Success stories to read and follow about those women who have hit the million dollar mark. Come on ladies, start reading and let’s start catching up to get more women owned businesses to the million dollar mark!
Why It’s A Must Read: I love reading the stories of the people who have been successful and created some of the most successful brands on the planet. The book that I have enjoyed immensely is Ben & Jerry’s: The Inside Scoop: How Two Real Guys Built a Business with a Social Conscience. Very inspiring to say the least!
Why It’s A Must Read: I enjoyed Lions Don’t Need to Roar by DA Benton tremendously because it wasn’t just another book about networking and creating relationships. It really helped me identify how to have confidence in myself and communicate that confidence to others to enhance relationships and stand out from the crowd. The key to a good book is if you finish reading the book and can apply the principles, which I have done over and over in my professional (and personal) life with this book.
Why It’s A Must Read: Talk about going for it! Kim Lavine does not give up. This is the best book I have read thus far that takes the reader through a full story arc (Kim’s story) and provides real, usable information from beginning to end for the woman entrepreneur. Kim’s integration of the personal and practical really worked for me. She is determined, savvy, and doesn’t stop at “no.” She shows the woman entrepreneur the importance of thinking big and then digging in to get there.
Why It’s A Must Read: I highly recommend the book, “No More Cold Calling” by Joanne S. Black. I love this book because it’s not a big cold call bashing book, but instead a very systematic and actionable program that any entrepreneur can use to grow a steady stream of referrals and leads. If you would rather build your business attending events, growing relationships and having your favorite clients refer you clients, then I would suggest you pick up this little gem.
Why It’s A Must Read: Mindset is critical for success, all the tools and strategy in the world won’t help if you don’t get that piece of it right. While this book was written way back in the beginning of the 20th century, the advice given is just as relevant today. You’ll need to substitute some pronouns and wade through a bit of old-style writing, but the concepts Napolean Hill teaches in this book are timeless.
96. How To Make Maximum Money With Minimum Customers
Why It’s A Must Read: Craig Garber from King of Copy wrote a book titled: How to Make Maximum Money with Minimum Customers. In it he shows and even proves how he made a hair north of $500,000 in sales in a year with an email list less than 5,000 people long and ZERO ADVERTISING! I’m currently reading the book and it is simply a MUST HAVE for all women entrepreneurs out there! Get a copy today. And NO, I am not an affiliate. My reward for this tip is seeing someone else succeed. That alone is worth it.
Why It’s A Must Read: The one book women entrepreneurs need to read is Mommy Millionaire by Kim Lavine. She describes how she went to the complete bottom, before going up and making her first million. Even if you’re not a mom, this book is filled with entrepreneurial spirit and helpful business building information.
From all the business books I’ve read, this one really brings out the entrepreneurial beast in me.
Why It’s A Must Read: This amazing book by by Quinn McKay is not just one of the best business books I’ve ever read, it’s one of the best in any genre.
Ethics is all but missing in action in our business culture. It has been replaced with a gaming ethic that basically says, “Do whatever you can get away with.” But none of us really wants to LIVE in that kind of culture. None of us wants to be on the receiving end.
As entrepreneurs, it is up to each of us to create the environment we want to live in.
Why It’s A Must Read: I recommend the book entitled ‘HOW TO ATTRACT MONEY” by Robert Griswold. I recommend it because you can eliminate the roadblocks to prosperity. Create your own good luck. Free yourself from financial limitations. Get rich. Maintain your wealth and live a happier life. He has developed an entire program that puts you in charge of your destiny and empowers you to make the kind of money you’ve dreamed about, enjoy high self-esteem and live a happier, more fulfilled life. You can start now!
Why It’s A Must Read: This book by Joe Vitale and Craig Perrine are perfect for women entrepreneurs since women are already so naturally intuitive and inspired! This would be like a thumbs up to their own great ideas and give them more confidence in that arena, but also help them know what to watch out for – like know when it seems to be inspired but it really is not. I also reccommend David Deida’s “Dear Lover” since women’s relationship to love often affects their business.
Why It’s A Must Read: “If you don’t have big breasts, put ribbons on your pigtails”, by Barbara Corcoran, is simply the savviest, most joyous biz book I’ve read. she’s a delightful writer, full of wisdom & humor. but make no mistake,her lessons are rock solid. from chapters like, “the socks go in the sock drawer”, “you’ve got to bully the bully” & “offer the bigger piece & yours will taste even better”, she keeps the lessons humming. her account of her encounter with Donald trump is priceless.
Why It’s A Must Read: I suggest reading Groundswell (Charlene Li and Josh Bernoff). Many businesses aren’t making the best use they can of the social aspect of the internet… if you can get this right (and if it’s right for your business) then you have a head start. It’s not a brand-new book, and it’s not specifically for ‘women entrepreneurs’ but if you’re not already using the social spaces of the internet to have a conversation with your customers, it’s definitely worth the time.
Why It’s A Must Read: Chris Anderson effectively points out that which is contradictory to what we learned in business school. Give Products Away = Earning More Money. Mr. Anderson includes valuable insights and case studies, as well as a variety of suggestions for utilization of this technique in your business. This no-holes-barred look at the shift in marketing strategies encourages non-traditional thinking and opens new avenues for placing your product or service in a more prominent and productive position.
Why It’s A Must Read: The focus is on word-of-mouth marketing and creating “buzz” around your brand. This is something women entrepreneurs tend to shy away from because it requires a great deal of self promotion AND stepping outside of your comfort zone – two things we sometimes struggle with. Traditional advertising no longer works. If you want to put your brand on the map and keep it there, you must go beyond conventional marketing strategies. This book is ideal for bootstrappers willing to take big risks.
Why It’s A Must Read: I recommend Geoffrey Moore’s book, Crossing the Chasm. It really explains how to get a new and innovative product past the early stages and into the mainstream of the buying public.
Why It’s A Must Read: The best book I have come across in a LONG time is “One Year to an Organized Work Life” by Regina Leeds. This book gives a detailed week by week plan on how you can get your work life in tip top shape. From things like organizing your contacts to cleaning up you inbox – this book is THE must have for any entrepreneur!
Why It’s A Must Read: This book is for women who want ‘it all’ in life but don’t want life to be hard. A light read the author gives you 7 principles to apply in business, relationships and life that will help you step out of the muck propelling you down the road to Wild Success. With each principle comes a short witty story or example that will inspire you, make you laugh and of course enlighten you too. I read this book when I started my business and have been rewarded with success that far surpassed my dreams.
Why It’s A Must Read: I haven’t read many books on this topic but I do like Ladies Who Launch. Resembling Bird By Bird (Instructions on Writing and Life) – a must read! – Ladies Who Launch is subtitled Entrepreneurship & Creativity as a Lifestyle. Each of these books use the material they are teaching to creatively parallel their usefulness as strategies for successful living (or writing). In Ladies Who Launch women can learn how to launch whatever they are eager to have take off.
Why It’s A Must Read: My absolute business bible is Mommy Millionaire by Kim Lavine. Imagine your most trusted best friend sitting beside you, having jumped over EXACTLY the same hurdles you are facing, giving you insider information step-by-step all the while encouraging you that you can do this – and you have Kim’s book. It is hands down the most personable, knowledgeable, easy to understand guide to starting your own business – from initial concept to product, sales, and beyond.
Why It’s A Must Read: Cracking the Boys Club Code helps women break through the glass ceiling by explaining the different ways that women and men think, process information, and communicate.
For example, women think in terms of creating a “win-win” situation for all. Men play by a different set of rules, as in: “I win. You lose. Next game.”
For communication via email or in person, men prefer “headlines and bullet points” while women prefer lots and lots of details.
Why It’s A Must Read: Seven Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R Covey
He talks a lot about the importance of being pro-active rather than re-active and the importance of thinking objectively. The book also discusses the concepts of synergy and balance, which are not only extremely important in the professional and entrepreneurial context, but also on a personal level.
Why It’s A Must Read: A must read for all women in business – although it was written over 2,500 years ago the principals that it holds still apply today. A former employer recommended this book to me to help understand the gamesmanship going on in my male dominated industry. It is a must read for anyone but particularly good for women looking to advance their careers or businesses by studying these strategic principals and applying them to today’s business issues as well as the daily battles in life.
Why It’s A Must Read: Besides the obvious TOILET PAPER ENTREPRENEUR (marvelous by the way), there is one book that I believe is invaluable for any entrepreneur. THE 4 HOUR WORKWEEK by Tim Ferris. This book is not only jam-packed with information and resources, but it offers an intelligent often overlooked approach to business and why we do it all in the first place. By the time you finish this book you will be well on you way to living like a true TPE. Happy reading!
Why It’s A Must Read: In my opinion, Survival is Not Enough, by Seth Godin is a must read for entrepreneurs. Seth Godin is one of, if not the, leading marketing thinker of our generation. In his book he emphasizes that all businesses must constantly be evolving their model if they want to thrive now and in the future. If you’re not always listening to your customers & evolving your business based on that feedback then you’re simply surviving while waiting for the inevitable collapse.
Why It’s A Must Read: One of my favorite must read books for any female entrepreneur is Failing Forward by John Maxwell. As a mostly-reformed perfectionist, this book gave me a new perspective on “failure.” His combination of great arguments and stories managed to get me past my “failure” defensiveness. I really GET the fact that it is not only acceptable to make mistakes, but if I am not making mistakes on a daily basis I am not really learning.
Why It’s A Must Read: Gail’s book is a must read for any woman in business. The premise is that business is a game with rules and the rules were created by and for men. Because of this, women are at a distinct disadvantage. Gail’s book really illuminates what we as businesswomen thought we knew but possibly had wrong all along. After reading this book you will never be the same, or operate your business in quite the same way. Gail’s book is transformational, an easy quick read, and will make you think for days later.
Why It’s A Must Read: I recommend “Power Tools for Women:Plugging into the Essential Skills for Work and Life” by Joni Daniels.
Ms. Daniels makes use of memorable metaphors of a tool kit to empower female readers to be more effective and self-sufficient in their professional and personal lives. “Power Tools for Women” is humorous and easily relatable with interviews about real-life issues. I highly recommend this book for women at every professional level.
Why It’s A Must Read: Sweet Expectations by Michelle Hoskins. This book is amazing, I’ve never read a book that was as detailed in her successes and her mistakes. For once I felt like I knew what it was like to experience the ups and downs of being an entrepreneur and not knowing what you are doing but still pushing forward to reach the light at the end of the tunnel. She had so many obstacles just as I do launching my business and reading her book made me feel like I am not alone and that I am on the right track.
Why It’s A Must Read: I highly recommended Mommy Millionaire: How I Turned My Kitchen Table Idea into a Million Dollars and How You Can Too. It is not that thick so you should finish pretty fast. The book gives great tips and ideas for start up businesses. If you don’t have it, go get it.
Why It’s A Must Read: Remember George Costanza on the Seinfeld show? He tried and tried but things always seemed to go wrong for him. Then one day at lunch, he orders “the usual.” Then George has an epiphany and decides to order, instead of the usual tuna, a chicken salad. And Elaine quips “There is no telling what can come from this.” The moral of the story? When you are stuck, turn around and do the opposite. Read this and other fun stories in the book “Money, Meaning and Beyond” by Andrea J. Lee and Tina Forsyth.
Why It’s A Must Read: This is a must read book for entrepreneurs. You will save yourself so much time and energy. Kim Lavine is the author and she doesn’t hold back on giving info about what has and hasn’t worked for her. It is easy to read and hard to put down. I just wanted to keep on reading. If your just getting started with your business, or if you’ve been working at it awhile, you will find some helpful information in this book.
Why It’s A Must Read: A great book for women entrepreneurs is “Birthing the Elephant: The Women’s Go-For-It! Guide to Overcoming the Big Challenges of Launching a Business.” It is recommended for women who are preparing to start a business, with a focus on preparing for the emotional and psychological strains of business. Unfortunately women are dealt with increased pressures during the entrepreneurial process compared to their male counterparts. This book lays out the realities, while providing practical advice.
Why It’s A Must Read: I found this book on Facebook. It is written by, Sheldon Manheim. Here are the basics – make more money each month than the previous month, and wait one year so you have a tax return, but I’m sure there is more helpful information in this book.
Why It’s A Must Read: Everyone gets further ahead with consideration and understanding of clients’ customs. Ladies in business are generally held to a higher standard of manners and if you understand “the rules” you know when (and how) to break them.
The full title is “Letitia Baldrige’s New Complete Guide to Executive Manners” 1993 or one of her other books “Letitia Baldrige’s New Manners for New Times: A Complete Guide to Etiquette” 2003
Why It’s A Must Read: The book Mommy Millionaire by Kim Lavine changed the direction of my life! I had the idea that I wanted to create a business but I didn’t know where to start. This book provided me with step by step directions. I started taking those steps and have never looked back. I’m now on the most exciting and empowering journey of my life (except for having my daughter of course!). This is a must have book for women entrepreneurs. Kim Lavine also has a new book out called Mommy Manifesto.
Why It’s A Must Read: The Parentpreneur’s Edge – What Parenting Teaches about Building a Successful Business. This is a must read whether you have parents or not – after all, you do have parents! Sometimes the best skills for business are the ones we’ve already got, and use or observe on a regular basis. This book shares loads of practical examples of applying parenting skills to building your business. Think about it – being a parent and an entrepreneur are the two hardest jobs you’ll ever have.
Why It’s A Must Read: “I think I can, I think I can” said the little engine. Never have words been more appropriate for a woman entrepreneur. You must believe in yourself and know in your heart that you can do it.
Why It’s A Must Read: Mother’s Work by Rebecca Matthias is the story of the founder of Pea in the Pod, Mimi Maternity, essentially the founder of career maternity wear. Business lessons, life lessons and inspiration abound. Plus the anecdote of how she thought one of her young kids ate a cockroach while she was busy on a call makes me feel less guilty as a fellow working mom.
Why It’s A Must Read: The Purple Cow by Seth Godin is one of my favorites. I purchased this book as an audio CD and enjoy listing to it as I drive to and from my son’s school. The concepts presented are down to earth, yet so very essential for making good business!
Why It’s A Must Read: “How to Make More Money, Rock Your Career and Revel in Your Individuality” In the work I do I hear so many reasons why people say they can’t be, do and have whatever they want and here’s a woman w/out a high school education making her way to the top. In other words she Got Stuff Done (GSD) which made her an asset to whatever company she joined. I like that the tools she gives are useful in every area of one’s life and that she gives a lot of free stuff on her website to spur you on.
Why It’s A Must Read: This tip comes from Dave Lakhani’s excellent book, “How to Sell When Nobody’s Buying (And How to Sell Even More When They Are)”
You need to relentlessly and constantly use all the promotional and marketing channels you can to get your message out to the greatest number of people as efficiently as possible. Video, audio, and social media are effective.
The more visible you are, the more you’ll sell.
Implementing this tip, alone, has increased my business significantly.
Why It’s A Must Read: There are many women mentors and business best practices found in the most sold book in the world- The Bible. This book is not often associated with business but it is by far the most beneficial book you can read for your business.
The women of the Bible teach wisdom in a variety of business areas like negotiating, planning, management, target marketing, growth management, multi-tasking, managing a home-based business, human relations, mentoring, leading, decision making, communication.
12 Responses to “The Must-Read Books For Women Entrepreneurs”
Alison Moore Smith Says:
November 17th, 2009
What’s up with the men telling women what women “must read”? ;D
Anywho, great list. I’ve added a few more to my miles-long reading list!
Margaret Says:
November 17th, 2009
LOL. I second Alison’s opinion Mike. We need to hear from the girls more. Actually now that I look at the list, it is almost all suggested by the ladies. I take it back. Good job Mike!
Dianne Sikel Says:
November 17th, 2009
Thanks for posting this. I love to read! There are a few books here that I really want to read now.
Another great way to learn from each other!
Rock on Girls!!! And You too Mike~
)
Dianne Sikel
Provocative Life & Love Coach
Phx, Az
Kundan Says:
November 17th, 2009
@ Allison and Margaret: There are both masculine and feminine energies in each of us both men AND women. Therefore, it is ok for men to give advice to women, just as it is ok for women to give advice to men.
andre Says:
November 17th, 2009
GO JOANN!
TPE’s Must-Read Books For Women « Welcome to SixFigureStart™ Says:
November 18th, 2009
@Dianne – Go girls! Go girls!!! And the few guys (Go few guys!, Go few guys!)
- Mike
Alison Moore Smith Says:
November 18th, 2009
Kundan, at first glance I thought you said, “there are both masculine and feminine men.” LOL
Though I hope you all did see the winky. My husband and I give each other advice all the time. I’m totally a man-lover over here.
Mike Michalowicz Says:
November 19th, 2009
@Alison… there ARE feminine men. Not that there is anything wrong with that.
Susan Says:
November 19th, 2009
Awesome list! Although, I am overwhelmed, I look forward to picking my next read from this list.
Thanks all!
Why Women Entrepreneurs Should Read Empowering Books | CONFIDENCE IS AN INSIDE JOB ™… Says:
November 22nd, 2009
[...] Here’s what Mike Michalowicz, author of the Toilet Paper Entrepreneur, had to say about this topic. I heard a sad joke about American entrepreneurs during my travels in Europe a few months back. A speaker asked the audience “How do you hide a secret from an American?” Then she took a dramatic pause and said “You write it in a book.” People laughed. I didn’t. Read more … [...]
November 17th, 2009
What’s up with the men telling women what women “must read”? ;D
Anywho, great list. I’ve added a few more to my miles-long reading list!
November 17th, 2009
LOL. I second Alison’s opinion Mike. We need to hear from the girls more. Actually now that I look at the list, it is almost all suggested by the ladies. I take it back. Good job Mike!
November 17th, 2009
Thanks for posting this. I love to read! There are a few books here that I really want to read now.
Another great way to learn from each other!
Rock on Girls!!! And You too Mike~
Dianne Sikel
Provocative Life & Love Coach
Phx, Az
November 17th, 2009
@ Allison and Margaret: There are both masculine and feminine energies in each of us both men AND women. Therefore, it is ok for men to give advice to women, just as it is ok for women to give advice to men.
November 17th, 2009
GO JOANN!
November 18th, 2009
[...] http://www.toiletpaperentrepreneur.com/blog/mustread-books-women-entrepreneurs [...]
November 18th, 2009
@Kundan – Amen to that.
November 18th, 2009
@Dianne – Go girls! Go girls!!! And the few guys (Go few guys!, Go few guys!)
- Mike
November 18th, 2009
Kundan, at first glance I thought you said, “there are both masculine and feminine men.” LOL
Though I hope you all did see the winky. My husband and I give each other advice all the time. I’m totally a man-lover over here.
November 19th, 2009
@Alison… there ARE feminine men. Not that there is anything wrong with that.
November 19th, 2009
Awesome list! Although, I am overwhelmed, I look forward to picking my next read from this list.
Thanks all!
November 22nd, 2009
[...] Here’s what Mike Michalowicz, author of the Toilet Paper Entrepreneur, had to say about this topic. I heard a sad joke about American entrepreneurs during my travels in Europe a few months back. A speaker asked the audience “How do you hide a secret from an American?” Then she took a dramatic pause and said “You write it in a book.” People laughed. I didn’t. Read more … [...]