10 most popular books on soft skills for project managers

10 most popular books on soft skills for project managers

5 September 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.