As women, one great way to level up, especially career wise is through reading.
From being underestimated and dealing with harassment to missing out on opportunities simply because of their gender, women face unique challenges at every stage of their careers. These barriers can negatively affect a woman’s ability to reach her full career potential.
Fortunately, many women who have overcome these obstacles are now sharing their insights through powerful books. The following books, written by women who have cracked the code to workplace success, offer valuable guidance to help other women advance in their careers.
If you’re ready to break past barriers and aim for true success in your career, especially in the coming year, consider adding one (or all!) of these seven must-read books to your list.
1.
In this best-selling book, Wall Street veteran and powerhouse with over three decades of experience, Carla A. Harris shares tips and strategies for surviving the workplace.
Expect to Win is a must-read for every woman seeking to elevate and fulfill their true potential.
2. The Pressure Cooker by Nkiru Olumide-Ojo
There’s a persistent notion that a woman must either be a good mother and wife or a successful career woman, with no middle ground.
However, in The Pressure Cooker, the author challenges that notion by sharing her own firsthand experience as a working mother and corporate executive, demonstrating that it’s possible to excel in both work and personal life without sacrificing one for the other.
Drawing from her experiences, the challenges she faced, and how she overcame them, this book offers actionable advice for achieving balance while advancing in your career.
It’s a must-have resource for women who want to shape their journeys, not only in the corporate world but also in their personal lives.
3. Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg
Written by former Meta COO Sheryl Sandberg, Lean In addresses the gender inequality women still face today and how women can take on leadership roles.
Using personal stories and insights, Sandberg sheds light on the challenges women encounter in the workplace and provides strategies to help them stand up for themselves and achieve their goals.
Covering topics like work-life balance, gender biases, and career advancement, this book is an empowering guide for women determined to take control of their professional lives.
4. Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office by Lois P. Frankel
This New York bestseller reveals how certain behaviors, often encouraged in women from a young age, can hold them back professionally.
Frankel explains these behaviors in detail, highlighting how they limit career growth and how women can break free from self-sabotaging habits.
“Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office” encourages women to stop playing small and start demanding the opportunities and recognition they deserve. It’s a must-read for any woman who struggles to advocate for herself in the workplace.
5. The Confidence Code: The Science and Art of Self-Assurance by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman
In “The Confidence Code”, Kay and Shipman explore why many women struggle with confidence, particularly in professional settings.
Drawing on research, interviews, and personal stories, the authors provide a deep dive into the science behind confidence. They also talk about self-assurance and how women can build it.
This book doesn’t just scratch the surface; it digs into the root causes of low confidence, empowering women to rebuild and strengthen their self-belief.
In this book, renowned researcher, storyteller, and professor Brené Brown teaches us what it means to dare greatly, showing us how to put those ideas into practice so we can step up and lead.
Dare to Lead contains wisdom to guide leaders who want to nurture safe and effective work groups.
7. Everything Is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo
As the title suggests, Everything is Figureoutable presents the idea that with the right approach and effort, everything can indeed be figured out.
Written by award-winning American entrepreneur, Marie Forleo, the wonderful thing about this book is that it doesn’t just focus on career aspects; it covers every area of life and offers valuable tips on how you can figure things out, whether it’s in relationships, business, or even time management.
If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, not just in work but in any area of life, this book is exactly what you need to help you find solutions.