Would you like to know what are the books Harvard Business School (HBS) recommends that students read before they start their MBA?
HBS’ reading list has a mix of classics and more contemporary books. The selection covers various aspects of business, including leadership, management, entrepreneurship, strategy, and more.
The Reading List
“The Lean Startup” by Eric Ries: This book revolutionises startup methodology, guiding entrepreneurs through uncharted territories with lean and iterative practices—a must-read in most MBA’s reading lists.
“First Break All the Rules: What the World’s Greatest Managers Do Differently” by Marcus Buckingham and Curt Coffman: Explore the unconventional management strategies outlined in this book, offering insights into effective leadership and challenging traditional norms—one of my favourite books on management.
“True North: Discover Your Authentic Leadership” by Bill George: This book takes you on a journey of self-discovery, helping you uncover your authentic leadership style and values-driven approach.
“Unleashing Innovation: How Whirlpool Transformed an Industry” by Nancy Tennant Snyder and Deborah L. Duarte: Immerse yourself in this fascinating case study on Whirlpool’s successful industry transformation, inspiring you to foster innovation within your own organisation.
“Scaling Up Excellence: Getting to More Without Settling for Less” by Robert I. Sutton and Huggy Rao: Discover practical advice on achieving growth while maintaining excellence, empowering you to scale your business effectively.
“Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game” by Michael Lewis: Explore the world of data analytics in baseball and learn how to make strategic decisions in the business world by leveraging insights from this captivating book.
“Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die” by Chip Heath and Dan Heath: Unlock the secrets behind creating memorable and impactful ideas, equipping you with powerful communication techniques. I like the writing style, too, with concise and impactful chapters.
“Thinking, Fast and Slow” by Daniel Kahneman: Journey into the depths of human decision-making processes, gaining valuable insights into cognitive biases and their implications for business.
This is a well-rounded list that I recommend to anybody!