If I could recommend only three business books, they'd be Exactly What to Say by Phil M. Jones for conversations and sales, They Ask, You Answer by Marcus Sheridan for marketing, and Atomic Habits by James Clear for sticking at it. Each is short, practical and gives you something you can use straight away.
1. Exactly What to Say by Phil M. Jones
This book changed the way I think about communication, at work and at home. Jones is a sales trainer, and the book is built around 23 "magic words" and phrases, each with practical examples of how to use them in conversations, when handling objections and when guiding people towards a decision.
Two examples:
- "Just imagine..." helps people picture what's possible, which makes them more open to your idea.
- "How would you feel if..." encourages people to reflect, and builds a deeper connection with clients and colleagues.
Whether you lead a team, negotiate with clients or simply want to communicate better, it's straightforward and you can use it the same day.
2. They Ask, You Answer by Marcus Sheridan
This is my favourite business book. The idea is simple: whatever your customers ask you, answer it honestly and openly on your website, including the awkward questions about price and problems. Do that, and people trust you before they ever pick up the phone.
Try this: write down the ten questions customers ask you most, and answer one a week on your website. If you've read my article on how much a business coach costs, you'll have seen the idea in action.
3. Atomic Habits by James Clear
James Clear describes the "plateau of latent potential". You put in the work and nothing seems to happen, until suddenly it does, like an ice cube that doesn't melt until the temperature reaches zero, even though every degree counted. Small habits, repeated, add up to big results.
It's the best explanation I know of why so many owners give up too soon. See why service businesses stall.
And biographies
I also read a lot of biographies and autobiographies of influential people, such as Richard Branson and Barack Obama. There's no one person I'd single out, but seeing how others handled setbacks and big decisions is a useful reminder that nobody gets there in a straight line.
How to get more from a business book
- Read with a pen. Note one thing to try.
- Do it within a week. One change you make beats ten ideas you don't.
- Share it. Explaining an idea to your team or peer group helps it stick.
Frequently asked questions
What's the best business book for small business owners? It depends on what you need. For sales conversations, Exactly What to Say. For marketing that builds trust, They Ask, You Answer. For building habits that stick, Atomic Habits.
I don't have time to read. What should I do? Try audiobooks. Most business books, including these three, are available as audiobooks, so you can listen while you drive or walk.
Want help putting ideas into action?
Reading is the easy part. Book a free strategy call and we'll pick the one idea that will make the biggest difference to your business and plan how to do it.