“Around you there are many examples of ways to solve your own problems and create compelling opportunities. Learn to look outside.”
David Mansfield
Revolution Reading
Business books and articles are an excellent source of new ideas and different perspectives. Each selection will be summarised, highlighting the lessons to be learned and an actionable idea that David recommends you apply to your business. A new Revolution Reading will be added every month.
What they don’t teach you at Harvard Business School
By By Mark H McCormack
What's it about?
Mark H. McCormack was the founder of the international management group IMG and is renowned for being one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the sport marketing industry. This business book classic focuses on practical, straight-talking advice and steers clear of the data, graphs and case studies you’d expect to find in business school. McCormack highlights that getting stuck in and understanding people can be far more valuable than time spent in a classroom.
What's in it for me?
This book is suited to middle management roles and entrepreneurs looking to gain some practical advice on topics such as sales, negotiation, running a business, reading others and time management.
What can I learn?
- The importance of being people-focussed
- How to harness rejection and failure as powerful motivators
- That timeliness is key
- Why quality is crucial to having a sustainable business
- Effective negotiation techniques
Start on Monday:
Take the time to really observe someone in your business or team. What can you learn from their mannerisms and body language? The more you get to know a person, the more effective you will be.
Talking to Strangers, by Malcolm Gladwell
What's in it for me?
It will help you to explore your own behaviour in dealing with strangers and guide you in building stronger relationships.
Shoe Dog, by Phil Knight
What's in it for me?
This is not your typical checklist and tips business book. It is an honest account of the often tumultuous road to success, which will energise and inspire the most determined entrepreneurs.
Atomic Habits, by James Clear
What's in it for me?
You will find out how habits are formed, how to make them stick and how embracing habits is a great way to take control of your life and achieve more.
Only the Paranoid Survive, by Andrew S. Grove
What's in it for me?
Learn how one of the most successful companies in the world survived moments of crisis. Gove gives advice on how to identify ‘strategic inflection points’ and lead teams through them.
