Change Your View Inside Out: 5 Books for Business Perspective

Running a side gig comes with great responsibilities, challenges, and demands. Even the most influential business people need a fresh perspective every now and then. Business books provide expertise, advice, and real-world examples of new approaches to running a company from experienced and successful leaders. In this article, we’ll explore several influential books for business perspective and why they’re beneficial.

Roughly 11,000 business books are published each year, offering valuable insights to help people change their views from the inside out.

Keep reading to discover some useful resources to motivate, inspire, and guide your part-time business.

 

5 books for business perspective

Navigating your way to create secondary income can be difficult. Establishing an identity, building brand awareness, gathering a following, and marketing your products can be a lot to juggle. 

Luckily, numerous business leaders have come before you, learned from mistakes, and found ways to succeed. 

Not only that, but they’re also willing to share their insight by authoring business books. Here are five books for business perspective that can provide a fresh perspective for running your own business. 

 

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

One of the most important elements to running your own business is building relationships with other people. Whether you’re managing a team or interacting with customers, interpersonal skills play a big role in a business’s success. In “How to Win Friends & Influence People,” Carnegie delivers strategies to help improve your leadership, listening skills, and relationships. Written nearly a century ago, this book’s principles still hold true today.

A self-made millionaire, Carnegie’s book has sold more than 30 million copies worldwide. It has impacted everyone from small business entrepreneurs to the likes of business magnate Warren Buffet. Following the book’s advice, you’ll understand how to approach relationships, improve customer service, and build a more successful business.

 

2. “Change Your Questions, Change Your Life” by Marilee Adams 

This business book is about shifting your mindset to obtain a more positive outlook, both in business and in life. When you understand the difference between a Judger and a Learner mindset, you can adjust the questions you ask yourself. These easy transition questions help businesspeople overcome self-doubt and negativity that can come with running a business.

You don’t have to change your personality to shift from a negative mindset to a positive one. You simply need to readjust your way of thinking. Finding the silver lining in potentially negative situations empowers you to become more productive, more innovative, and regain control of your business. 

 

3. “The $100 Startup” by Chris Guillebeau 

Let’s face it. Not all entrepreneurs have a ton of capital to invest in a new idea, especially if that new idea is a side hustle. “The $100 Startup” explores case studies of 50 people who started a business with less than $100, and how they’ve capitalized on their idea to build an income of $50,000 or more. In this book, Guillebeau proves that a startup doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. Rather, it’s all about what you do with your nominal investment.

Focusing on the importance of action, “The $100 Startup” includes a one-page business plan to set readers on the path to success. You will learn to focus on organic growth as well as the importance of creating a plan and putting it into action.

 

 

4. “The Personal MBA” by Josh Kaufman

Entrepreneurs don’t have to attend business school to learn the basic business fundamentals with books like this. “The Personal MBA” teaches readers to excel at decision-making, productivity, and experimentation. Understanding business concepts like the iron law of the market and the 12 standard forms of value can help you build a successful enterprise that meets customer needs, generates revenue, and helps you lead a more fulfilled life.

 

Readers who complete this book will gain a better understanding of:

• How businesses really work
• What’s truly important in new business ideas
• How to build a business from nothing
• How to boost an existing business of any size
• How business skills can benefit personal goals

Kaufman’s book empowers readers to seek the knowledge, experience, and skills required to develop a successful business.

 

5. “Lean In” by Sheryl Sandberg

As a woman building your own business, hearing from another successful female leader can be encouraging and inspiring. In her book, Sandberg explains that women who want to be leaders need to act as leaders. “Lean In” encourages women to:

• Be more independent
• Take initiative
• Break through the glass ceiling
• Accept well-deserved praise

Sandberg shares hard data and personal stories of her own struggles in the business world. She hopes to help other women avoid the same mistakes she’s made along her career path.

 

Applying what you learn

There’s a lot to be said about learning from the first-hand experience of others. Business leaders who have experienced the same challenges you’re facing can help by:

• Offering tips and tricks
• Sparking new ideas
• Revealing a new way of thinking
• Flattening the learning curve
• Helping you recognize warning signs and adjust your business plan as needed

Business books can be especially helpful for beginners learning how to start their brand. The following video offers some business book suggestions that are ideal for new business leaders:

 

Whether you’re a newbie or an experienced entrepreneur, relying too heavily on business books has its risks. Not everyone has the exact same experience. Your personal development is unique to you. While business book authors can offer guidance and suggestions, you should apply them with your own business circumstances in mind. 

Additionally, don’t try to apply every concept from every book you read. Some ideas may be conflicting or lead to a chaotic business model. You should certainly read plenty of content. But then think about which methods and tips apply to your business, your products, and your audience. Whatever you do to improve your business, remember to always remain true to yourself and your brand.

 

Explore a fresh business perspective today

Business books are powerful. The right ones can guide you, inspire you, and help you put your business plans into action. And remember, the most successful people never stop learning.

Want to explore a fresh approach to your part-time business? Contact us today.