I've been putting together some book reviews this past week, plus organising the next Books & Networking meetings, and it made me think of this blog post I originally wrote on LinkedIn back in 2020...
Everyone is different - so what makes a good book for me may be something completely different to someone else - as long as they are getting something from that book (even just the enjoyment of reading it) then that is the most important thing.
And as I've mentioned in previous posts - I say "business" books however all forms of non-fiction books count - whether that is personal development, something that focuses on a particular area of your business (e.g. marketing, accounting, etc.), inspirational or any other type of non-fiction book that helps your work.
So what makes a good business book for me?
- Contains practical steps that can be carried out straight away. I'm not a fan of books (especially in more recent years) from "experts" or "consultants" where they skip on details and don't have much substance, because they want you to contact them!
- On a similar note - I'd love to visit an author's website, and sign up for their newsletter - but only because I've got something from the book, and not because it prompts me to so I can get information or resources needed to carry out the steps.
- After reading the book, makes me want to re-read the entire book, or revisit particular sections.
- The author may be a celebrity or well-known, however I've not heard of them - and they don't assume that their reader has.
- Doesn't talk down to the reader, has a "I know everything" attitude or is snobbery.
- Isn't filled with inspirational quotes and not much else.
- For me, I like paperback books - I spend enough time in front of a screen, and a paperback book makes me more likely to focus on the book, take notes, consider actions, etc. Although everyone is different - some may prefer to listen to audiobooks while carrying out other tasks, or use Kindle.
- Easy to read. Yes, I know this one sounds obvious.
- No false promises. I am very suspicious of books that promise I will become a millionaire within a few hours!
- Doesn't come across as a "self help" book, or tries to use jargon or to be clever.
- Only need to read one book - rather then buying every book in the series so I can actually follow the steps (I'll buy your other books because I like your one that I'm currently reading).
- Most importantly - I actually get something from reading the book. Whether that is ideas to try, or changes I can make to my business.
Business books don't necessary have to mean books you find in the "Business" section of stores. If they help your work or business - they all count. These could be any non-fiction - including personal development, books to help with a particular skill, area of your business (e.g. marketing) or industry specific books.
What makes a good business (or non-fiction book) for you?
Whether its anything in the above list, the complete opposite to anything I've said or ones of your own - it be great to hear your own thoughts!
And remember you can find out more about Books & Networking, including the group and meetings, at: booksandnetworking.co.uk
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