January 8th, 2009 by Duane Jackson - CEO
A common topic of conversation amongst people starting and running businesses is that of business books; what have you read, which do you recommend, etc.
So I thought I’d list my top three here. If you want to add your own favourites, then add a comment below. If nothing else, then I hope it gives you an idea of what to do with those amazon vouchers you got for Christmas!
Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
This is the true story of Robert Kiyosaki and the two father figures in his life. Rich Dad – an entrepreneur who made millions, and Poor Dad – an academic who didn’t. Kiyosaki talks about the different lessons he took from both men.
The most common complaint I hear about this book is that it’s repetitive. There are a few key points that Kiyosaki wants to drive home and he uses repetition to make sure you got the point. He uses repetition to make sure you got the point.
If you’re a skeptical sort of person, you’ll be put off by the thinly veiled attempts to try to sell you the Cashflow board game, the other 20+ Rich Dad books and various spin-off merchandise. But please don’t let that put you off reading the book.
I read this very early on in my entrepreneurial career and found it very insightful. It convinced me I’d chosen the right path, gave me a few pointers, and helped me clear all of my personal debts. It’s the first book I recommend to anyone who shows an interest in starting a business. I’d also list the next book in the series, Rich Dad’s CASHFLOW Quadrant, as being essential reading for any budding entrepreneur.
The E-Myth Revisited – Michael E. Gerber
A lot of what this book has to say only becomes relevant once you’re in business. It’s about growing your business and getting over some of the early frustration you’re likely to feel. The concepts are very well explained and easy to grasp. If you feel you are having to constantly work harder and put in more hours to keep your business running, then it’s time to take a break and read this book.
Once you’ve read the first half of it then you’ll have a better insight into what you are doing wrong, know how to systemize your business to improve it and you’ll end up owning a business instead of just owning a job.
The second half of the book may also have something of value to say. But it went all weird and spiritual on me about half way through so I gave up on it! But the first half on its own is more than worth the cost of the book.
How to Get Rich – Felix Dennis
Despite the really naff title, this is a great, great book. I read it from cover to cover in one sitting. There’s no beating around the bush or dressing anything up. Felix Dennis has made a lot of money in his unconventional life and he talks very honestly about the ups and downs involved. If you appreciate people being blunt then you’ll love this book. He gives lots of advice on how to get ahead in business and doesn’t care what you think about him. He certainly hasn’t written this book to make friends, boost his ego or improve his profile. As well as being full of practical information and knowledge, it’s also a very entertaining read.
Now let us know what books you recommend by posting a comment below.
Tags: books
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