As I’m sat at the table to write this, I’m wrapped up in a jumper for the first time in months (other than to combat over-active air-conditioning on occasion). There’ll be someone saying at some point that it’s the last Bank Holiday until Christmas (except for the very wise Scots). And there’s definitely a whiff of Autumn in the air.
Longer nights always mean that I get more into reading again. I never feel guilty about reading too much, only reading too little. I mean, if Bill Gates can get in 50 books a year then I really can’t complain about not having the time to read!
Though apparently, they are not big on Jilly Cooper or even PD James. They read to be educated over being entertained, reading for self-improvement, education and success. That said, I’ve read a few great business books that I’ve also found really quite entertaining, particularly anything by Gary Vaynerchuk.
Here’s the first five on my reading list for autumn:
The Multi-Hyphen Method by Emma Gannon
I think the world of work is going through such a massive shift, and our ability to create our own definitions of what we do is ever evolving. Emma’s book is all about how to make the most of the opportunities that those shifts are bringing. Whether side-hustler, 9 to 5’er looking for a change or already making your own life, then I think this will be a fascinating insight into the different options.
The Winning Mix: Launch and Grow Your Food Business Without Selling Your Soul by Claire Brumby
I focus on smaller businesses in food and drink, so always good to hear from experts in the industry. Along with Karen Green and Tessa Stuart, I think this is a power trio in the food business, and you should read everything they’ve written. Claire’s book is not out until 6 September 2018, but definitely worth pre-ordering. Combining her experiences of setting up her own brand with how-to guidance, you’re learning from one of the best.
They Ask. You Answer by Marcus Sheridan
I’m never entirely sure about statements such as “a revolutionary marketing strategy proven to drive sales and growth.” Who knows? But I’m fascinated enough to give this one a go, given the speed of change that the digital world is driving in how we approach marketing. And Marcus Sheridan has form in this, turning a failing swimming pool installation business into one of the largest in the US. I like that it’s someone who has had a real business, not just someone who talks about it.
Start Now. Get Perfect Later by Rob Moore
Another one that’s not out for a few days (13 September 2018), but I love the sentiment of the title. I think so many of us put off starting something because we’re not ready, not good enough. Sometimes, you just have to jump. As I’m now in a new decade, then that’s definitely my motto (although my knees are a bit dodgy about it, but they’re the only part that are).
Contagious: why things catch on by Jonah Berger
This isn’t a new book, originally published in 2014. The questions of how to go viral, to build strong word of mouth, to get recommendations, all of these are still key today, particularly for smaller businesses. Jonah has spent a long time studying this phenomenon and has a set of specific, actionable techniques that any kind of business could put into play.
So, these are my first five for autumn. What should I add to the reading list? I’d love some recommendations and thoughts from you. If you need some more ideas, then check out some of my previous reading lists, such as this one.
An interesting list and, though I may not read them myself, I can think of a few deserving recipients of Christmas presents!
The thing that struck me most however, was the comment about reading “to be educated rather than entertained”; which sent my left-right brain into turmoil. I’ve often found that reading “for entertainment” – if we want the distinction (which I know wasn’t your’s, merely your reporting) – can help with so many aspects of being “in business”.
Whether it’s increased self-awareness, stimulating different visions of the world or even allowing me to see parallel problems (and solutions) to my own current brick wall, I do force myself (often with guidance from Mrs ST) to read for pleasure.
I’m currently re-reading of Midnight’s Children, this thanks to listening to Krishna Guru-Murthy’s excellent “Way’s to change the World” interview with Salman Rushdie.
I’m not sure how this one will help in my current projects, but my previous read “Mr Rosenblum’s List” – apart from being very humorous, historically instructive, and touching -gave many insights into how pursuit of a goal requires focus, risk taking, partnership with unexpected allies, and creativity; and, yes, lists! So I’m recommending that !
Thanks for getting my post-bank holiday brain going – I have in fact just written my list for this month’s tasks – which was a good habit I had lost until Natasha Solomons reminded me!!
Thanks Steve, and I completely understand the right/left brain dilemma of that statement. I had a similar reaction. I don’t see why entertainment can’t be educational. Heaven knows more education needs to be more entertaining! Just because a world is fictional doesn’t mean it doesn’t have lessons to teach us. I like the idea of Mr Rosenblum’s List, I’m adding that to my reading list. And then I’m going to do my to do list, which I’ve also been putting off, if only because I know how much there is to go on it. I think I’ll make the first item “write to do list”. Everyone needs a small victory!