Books Recommended by Holger Arians

This book is already a classic in terms of how to influence people and persuade them to do what you want, and how to protect yourself from persuasion by others. These are two must-have skills for leaders and you should continually work on improving them.

Recently, the author has updated his advice with the book Pre-Suasion, with examples based on modern business interactions. However, you should start with the core principles explained in the original book and then follow up with updated evidence in the new one.

Some leaders are right. They are always right. And when they are not right, see the first two statements and apply them accordingly. This is the path towards destruction for any company – when leaders lull themselves into believing that they are invincible and incapable of making mistakes.

They develop a toxic culture around them, where employees know that the surefire way to a promotion is stroking the leader’s ego. In this book, you will find painful examples of what happens when such a business culture is allowed to grow. Don’t be that kind of leader – learn to be your number one critic.

Some people give to others. Others take whatever they can. And yet other people find a balance between giving and taking. This is the core of our society, and by learning how to deal with each category of people, you will become a great leader.

A cool mind and number crunching are not enough to make you a good leader. The talent to build and nurture relationships, and to keep a balance between what you give and what you take from the pool of talents around you, is crucial.

Jeff Boss is a former Navy SEAL and knows everything about mental fortitude, and controlling your emotions and impulses in the face of critical situations. He uses his expertise in this book to teach others how to develop resilience and fortitude and cope with difficult situations.

Resilience and fortitude are two key qualities of a successful leader, especially when faced with crisis situations or making tough decisions. This book is a great aid in such moments, when you feel unsure of yourself.

Historian David McCullough wrote one of the most factually accurate and detailed books about the construction of the Panama Canal. Why would such a book interest a leader? Because it shows how a great thing was achieved, and what it took to take the project from the paper and make it a reality.

Great things are never simple and easy to achieve. It takes creativity. Mistakes happen and losses are sustained. You have to rethink your strategy. You need a B, C or even a D plan. You do whatever it takes to make it happen. This is a valuable lesson for any leader and entrepreneur.