10 most popular books on soft skills for project managers

10 most popular books on soft skills for project managers

September 5, 2023

  1. “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie

    • This classic book offers timeless advice on communication, relationship-building, and influence.

  2. “Emotional Intelligence 2.0” by Travis Bradberry and Jean Greaves

    • This book provides insights into understanding and improving emotional intelligence, crucial for effective leadership.

  3. “Crucial Conversations: Tools for Talking When Stakes Are High” by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler

    • This book offers techniques for handling high-stakes conversations where outcomes can impact project success.

  4. “Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us” by Daniel H. Pink

    • Pink explores the psychology of motivation, which is essential for managing a team effectively.

  5. “The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable” by Patrick Lencioni

    • Lencioni discusses the hurdles that teams face and how a project manager can overcome them to create a cohesive team.

  6. “Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion” by Robert B. Cialdini

    • This book delves into the psychology behind why people say “yes” and how to apply these understandings in various aspects of management.

  7. “Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don’t” by Simon Sinek

    • Sinek explores how leaders can inspire cooperation and change, focusing on the importance of trust and collaboration.

  8. “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change” by Stephen R. Covey

    • Covey’s book is a guide to personal effectiveness, with principles that are easily adaptable to leadership roles.

  9. “Thinking, Fast and Slow” by Daniel Kahneman

    • This book explores decision-making and cognitive biases, offering valuable insights for project managers who must make quick yet informed decisions.

  10. “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” by Carol S. Dweck

    • Dweck discusses the concept of “fixed” vs. “growth” mindsets, and how having a growth mindset can significantly impact your ability to successfully manage projects.

These books cover a range of soft skills, from communication and emotional intelligence to leadership and team dynamics, which are all vital for effective project management.