The Best 6 Leadership and Management Books for Christmas 2012

Online, December 10, 2012 (Newswire.com) - The Best 6 Leadership and Management Books for Christmas 2012

Do you want to know what the best leadership and management books are? Are you wondering what to ask for this Christmas? Do you want to be a more successful? Do you want to feel more fulfilled? Do you want to make 2013 your most productive year so far?

I love devouring books in the holiday season and I always carefully consider the books I purchase or ask for as gifts. Here are my recommendations for Christmas 2012. There are some old titles and some new ones, but they are all indispensible reads and should inform and inspire you.

1. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People - Stephen R. Covey

This was one of the first management books I ever read and since that first encounter I have not stopped going back to it. Full of practical wisdom, the book takes you on a journey; setting a foundation that helps you win at a personal level before providing you with the tools you need to flourish as a leader. If you have not read this book yet then redeem yourself this Christmas and get a copy!

2. Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap and Others Don't - Jim Collins

Jim Collins has become one of most influential voices in organisational development over the past decade. This prequel to his other famous book, Built to Last, applies a scientific approach to identifying what makes a company successful, including what is needed of the people who lead such organisations. The book is challenging and inspiring in equal measure.

3. The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership: Follow Them and People Will Follow You - John C. Maxwell

John C. Maxwell is a prolific writer and there are several excellent books that I could list here but this is perhaps his classic work. His straightforward can-do approach to leadership is very appealing and his simple definition of leadership as 'influence' demonstrates that we are all leaders at some level and therefore should seek to develop our character and hone our skills to become the best leaders we can be.

4. Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion - Robert B. Cialdini

Compelling and persuasive in it's own right, Robert Cialdini's famous work is a touchstone for people in marketing but considering Maxwell's definition of leadership (that leadership is influence) this book is essential reading for every leader and manager. I guarantee that it will change the way you communicate and you will never see a sales pitch in the same way again!

5. The Decision Book: Fifty Models for Strategic Thinking - Mikael Krogerus and Roman Tschäppeler

This fantastic resource was a new purchase for me in 2012. The book may fit in your pocket but don't let that fool you, it is a veritable treasure trove. It is made all the more attractive because the material is presented in simple, easy to access chunks so you can work your way through or just dip in whenever you need. Whether you decide to stash the book in your top drawer at work, or keep in on your bedside table, make sure it is close to hand for when you want inspiration.

6. Making It All Work: Winning at the Game of Work and the Business of Life - David Allen

David Allen, the bestselling author of Getting Things Done, and an expert in achieving work-life balance, wrote this book. I have just been given a copy and it comes with high recommendations so I will be reading it over Christmas. I look forward to reviewing it fully when I am finished and discussing it in the New Year!

Written by Simon Ash