100 books like The Squiggly Career

By Helen Tupper, Sarah Ellis,

Here are 100 books that The Squiggly Career fans have personally recommended if you like The Squiggly Career. Shepherd is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of So Good They Can't Ignore You: Why Skills Trump Passion in the Quest for Work You Love

Asad Husain Author Of Careers Unleashed: Unlock your potential for extraordinary career success

From my list on unlock your career potential.

Why am I passionate about this?

My career journey started as an HR trainee in Karachi, Pakistan, and ended as the head of HR at two major companies. Across 31 years, I have worked for blue-chip companies like The Gillette Company, P&G, and Del Monte, building my own and observing firsthand many extraordinary careers. Unfortunately, for every person I observed who built a fantastic career, I have seen many more feel unsuccessful and unfulfilled in their careers. This is why I am passionate about using my knowledge and experience to help people navigate the challenges of the modern workplace and to provide them with the tools and strategies necessary to create their own extraordinary careers. 

Asad's book list on unlock your career potential

Asad Husain Why did Asad love this book?

I absolutely love this book because it is not just another career book; it is a paradigm shift.

Newport's approach challenged my perspective on passion and career fulfillment. His emphasis on skill development resonated deeply with me, especially as someone who believes in continuous growth.

I like the evidence-based blueprint he provides, and I found the book's insights to be practical and actionable, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking career success on their own terms.

By Cal Newport,

Why should I read it?

4 authors picked So Good They Can't Ignore You as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Cal Newport's clearly-written manifesto flies in the face of conventional wisdom by suggesting that it should be a person's talent and skill -- and not necessarily their passion -- that determines their career path. Newport, who graduated from Dartmouth College (Phi Beta Kappa) and recently earned a PhD. from MIT, contends that trying to find what drives us, instead of focusing on areas in which we naturally excel, is ultimately harmful and frustrating to job seekers. The title is a direct quote from comedian Steve Martin who, when once asked why he was successful in his career, immediately replied: "Be…


Book cover of Sort Your Career Out: And Make More Money

Asad Husain Author Of Careers Unleashed: Unlock your potential for extraordinary career success

From my list on unlock your career potential.

Why am I passionate about this?

My career journey started as an HR trainee in Karachi, Pakistan, and ended as the head of HR at two major companies. Across 31 years, I have worked for blue-chip companies like The Gillette Company, P&G, and Del Monte, building my own and observing firsthand many extraordinary careers. Unfortunately, for every person I observed who built a fantastic career, I have seen many more feel unsuccessful and unfulfilled in their careers. This is why I am passionate about using my knowledge and experience to help people navigate the challenges of the modern workplace and to provide them with the tools and strategies necessary to create their own extraordinary careers. 

Asad's book list on unlock your career potential

Asad Husain Why did Asad love this book?

I love this book for two main reasons. One, it is written clearly with the new horizon for careers in mind, where the workplace has changed and will continue to change. Two, so many of the topics in it resonate with me, like career ownership, strategies, mindset, and more.

It's written in a very energizing and practical manner and is full of great exercises to help professionals discover their path and thrive. Their genuine passion for helping readers jumps out on every page and aligns with my own mission of empowering individuals to thrive in their careers.

I would love to sit down with authors and exchange valuable strategies for unlocking potential and achieving dreams. This book isn't just about career growth; it's about reclaiming control over your professional destiny. If you're ready to unleash your career's full potential, this is the book for you.

By Shelley Johnson, Glen James,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Sort Your Career Out as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

The best investment you can make is in yourself and your career

Sort Your Career Out: And Make More Money is your go-to guide for building a career that you love. Dream jobs don't just come along: you need to make them happen. And this is the book that will show you how, from creating the ultimate career strategy to getting paid what you're really worth. (Hint: It's not just about changing the font on your resume!) With tips and guidance from two of today's top money and career experts, you'll learn how to change jobs, secure a promotion, ask…


Book cover of The Career Change Guide: Five Steps to Finding Your Dream Job

Asad Husain Author Of Careers Unleashed: Unlock your potential for extraordinary career success

From my list on unlock your career potential.

Why am I passionate about this?

My career journey started as an HR trainee in Karachi, Pakistan, and ended as the head of HR at two major companies. Across 31 years, I have worked for blue-chip companies like The Gillette Company, P&G, and Del Monte, building my own and observing firsthand many extraordinary careers. Unfortunately, for every person I observed who built a fantastic career, I have seen many more feel unsuccessful and unfulfilled in their careers. This is why I am passionate about using my knowledge and experience to help people navigate the challenges of the modern workplace and to provide them with the tools and strategies necessary to create their own extraordinary careers. 

Asad's book list on unlock your career potential

Asad Husain Why did Asad love this book?

I picked up this book by Rachel Schofield because it deals with the subject of “career change,” which I think is something that almost everyone is going to face in this new world of work, as jobs disappear and new ones appear at warp speed.

I believe that everyone needs the skills, strategies, and mindset that are required to change careers, and this book, from my perspective, does a great job of assisting individuals seeking to make a significant transition in their professional lives.

I like it because, one, it offers practical advice and actionable strategies that resonate with me, and two, Rachel Schofield's insights into career change are not only practical but deeply empowering.

By Rachel Schofield,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Career Change Guide as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Discover what you really want from work - and how to get there - with this empowering, practical guide from expert career coach Rachel Schofield

AS SEEN IN GOOD HOUSEKEEPING
ONE OF THE TELEGRAPH'S BEST SELF-HELP BOOKS OF 2023

'A doable plan to make changes that'll stick. This is the only book you need to take the leap' STYLIST

Are you dreaming of a new career? Or do you just want more out of your job? Either way, The Career Change Guide ensures that work works for you . . .
__________

This empowering, practical guide takes the confusion, fear…


Book cover of The Right and Wrong Stuff: How Brilliant Careers Are Made and Unmade

Asad Husain Author Of Careers Unleashed: Unlock your potential for extraordinary career success

From my list on unlock your career potential.

Why am I passionate about this?

My career journey started as an HR trainee in Karachi, Pakistan, and ended as the head of HR at two major companies. Across 31 years, I have worked for blue-chip companies like The Gillette Company, P&G, and Del Monte, building my own and observing firsthand many extraordinary careers. Unfortunately, for every person I observed who built a fantastic career, I have seen many more feel unsuccessful and unfulfilled in their careers. This is why I am passionate about using my knowledge and experience to help people navigate the challenges of the modern workplace and to provide them with the tools and strategies necessary to create their own extraordinary careers. 

Asad's book list on unlock your career potential

Asad Husain Why did Asad love this book?

I picked up this book because I heard Carter Cast on a podcast and was very impressed with what he had to say.

This book isn't just a career guide; it's a game-changer. It resonates with me deeply because it's not about following a generic path to success but about embracing your unique strengths and qualities.

I like his refreshing and funny way of presenting his take on career success. His stories and actionable advice resonate with me because he has learned from his own career, which is also my story.

By Carter Cast,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Right and Wrong Stuff as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Nearly a quarter century ago Carter Cast seemed to have it all together: he had a first-class education, an all-American athletic career, and was a very bright and energetic rising star on the fast track at a Fortune 100 company, PepsiCo. But blissfully unaware of how negative perceptions were shaped, he was stunned when called into his boss's office, and told he was "unpromotable" because he was "obstinate," "resistant," and "insubordinate."

Baffled, scared, and embarrassed, that defining moment led to Cast's years-long effort to try to understand why he came so close to going off track, discovering that what he…


Book cover of The Unspoken Rules: Secrets to Starting Your Career Off Right

Joy Batra Author Of The Freelance Mindset: Unleashing Your Side Hustles for Better Work, Play, and Life

From my list on freelancers, side hustlers, and portfolio careerists.

Why am I passionate about this?

I fell into freelancing when I unexpectedly got the opportunity to act in Bollywood after graduating from law school and business school. With six figure student loans, I needed to make money and still have time for auditions. Enter freelancing! A decade later, I’ve helped other people expand beyond their day jobs, change careers, or tap into a different skillset, and I’ve collected stories of over fifty freelancers who are doing the same. I hope these books inspire and support you as you venture off the beaten path to create a career that’s just right for you!

Joy's book list on freelancers, side hustlers, and portfolio careerists

Joy Batra Why did Joy love this book?

A couple years ago, I accepted a full-time job on top of my freelancing so I could be part of a bigger team.

I thought landing the job would be the hard part, but on my first day of work I found out I was wrong. It had been years since I’d worked at a company and I had no idea how to navigate office politics. This book totally saved me.

It helped me transition from freelance to full-time, but it also made me a better freelancer because I understood my clients and what they valued more deeply, so I could communicate in a way that resonated with them. Whether you’re freelance or full-time, this book is a must.

By Gorick Ng,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Unspoken Rules as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Named one of 10 Best New Management Books for 2022 by Thinkers50

A Wall Street Journal Bestseller

"...this guide provides readers with much more than just early careers advice; it can help everyone from interns to CEOs." - a Financial Times top title

You've landed a job. Now what?

No one tells you how to navigate your first day in a new role. No one tells you how to take ownership, manage expectations, or handle workplace politics. No one tells you how to get promoted.

The answers to these professional unknowns lie in the unspoken rules-the certain ways of doing…


Book cover of Think Big: Take Small Steps and Build the Future You Want

Gena Cox Author Of Leading Inclusion: Drive Change Your Employees Can See and Feel

From my list on the need for DEI and workplace inclusion.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have been an organizational psychologist and executive coach for more than two decades, advising high-level executives, including Fortune 500 leaders, to build workplace cultures in which all employees can flourish. Yet, for many employees of color, the workplace is so challenging that many feel professionally stifled. I realized many years ago that to accomplish my own goals; I needed to take control of my career and not depend upon the vagaries of individual leaders. I needed to set goals, take a long game view, be honest with myself and my leaders, and help leaders understand how changing some habits could help them and me succeed in a disrupted world. 

Gena's book list on the need for DEI and workplace inclusion

Gena Cox Why did Gena love this book?

Think Big is a science-based roadmap to help a reader achieve their wildest dreams, by taking small and big steps that move you incrementally toward the goal. Sometimes the steps require doing things you have not done before but sometimes they require stopping or reducing or changing your current patterns of dealing with the realities of life.

By Grace Lordan,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Think Big as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

What are you doing today to make your dream future come true?

'A rare self-help book that's actually informed by evidence. A host of perceptive, practical tips for getting out of your own way and making progress toward your career goals.' Adam Grant, bestselling author of Think Again and Originals

'A practical and accessible guide to using behavioural science in your career.' Caroline Criado Perez, author of Invisible Women
________________

We all have big ambitions for the future but those dreams only become reality if we do something towards them regularly. To achieve audacious goals, we need to take action…


Book cover of I Shouldn't Be Telling You This: How to Ask for the Money, Snag the Promotion, and Create the Career You Deserve

PeggySue Wells Author Of The 10 Best Decisions a Single Mom Can Make: A Biblical Guide for Navigating Family Life on Your Own

From my list on being a single mom and staying sane.

Why am I passionate about this?

“Eminently quotable, PeggySue Wells is a tonic — warm like your favorite blanket, bracing like a stiff drink.”

History buff and tropical island votary, PeggySue parasails, skydives, scuba dives, and has taken (but not passed) pilot training. The bestselling author of 30 books including the What To Do series, The Slave Across the Street, Bonding With Your Child Through Boundaries, Homeless for the Holidays, Chasing Sunrise, and The Ten Best Decisions A Single Mom Can Make, PeggySue’s most challenging and rewarding adventure was solo parenting seven children. With one in four homes single mom-led, PeggySue teamed with Pam Farrel to offer practical help and tangible tips to moms navigating parenting solo.

PeggySue's book list on being a single mom and staying sane

PeggySue Wells Why did PeggySue love this book?

A spunky and accomplished businesswoman and author, Kate White carved her own highly successful career and provides a practical and proven how-to for women to follow. Women wear many hats simultaneously (Think Seuss’ Ten Apples Up On Top) and Kate gives witty, wise, straight-talk for moms on how to balance parenting and craft a career you enjoy. You have talents and potential, I Shouldn’t Be Telling You This is step-by-step guidance to hone your abilities and navigate challenges. These are essential tips from the gutsy innovator who helped increase Cosmopolitan Magazine's circulation by half a million copies per month.

By Kate White,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked I Shouldn't Be Telling You This as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Whether you've just settled into your first work cubicle, getting back to work after taking some time off for kids, or are looking to get that corner office, I Shouldn't Be Telling You This gives you all the secrets you need to become a success, go big with it, and savor every second. Here, Kate White shares the five essential secrets every woman needs to know, as well as the crucial lesson you need to achieve your dreams: go big or go home-do what's unexpected and always keep your career trajectory in mind. Jam-packed with insider strategies, interviews with women…


Book cover of Crazy Is a Compliment: The Power of Zigging When Everyone Else Zags

Kusi Hornberger Author Of Scaling Impact: Finance and Investment for a Better World

From my list on investing for impact.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a Partner at Dalberg Global Development Advisors, where I lead a lot of our finance and investment advisory work with development finance institutions, family offices, and impact investors. I also serve on several impact investment and field-building organization advisory boards and regularly contribute to the ecosystem through thought leadership and speaking engagements at leading conferences. Over the course of my 20+ year career, I have played the role of advisor, investor, and technical assistance provider on more than 200 individual projects across the globe.   

Kusi's book list on investing for impact

Kusi Hornberger Why did Kusi love this book?

I love the title of this book–it is thought-provoking in the right kind of way.

The book, which is more about Linda’s story of founding and building Endeavor, a community of entrepreneurs in emerging markets, and less about finance, is on my list because of the lessons it offers about what it takes to be successful in doing something difficult.

In the book, Linda encourages readers to embrace risk and unconventional thinking to achieve success. Not to be afraid if others think what you are doing doesn’t make sense if you believe in your purpose, have a strong network of support, and are willing to adapt and learn along the way. It's a great read for any impact finance leader. 

By Linda Rottenberg,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Crazy Is a Compliment as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

'Some books on entrepreneurship are of little practical use. Rottenberg's new book is different. Sober, convincing and offers the best ways to build new business ventures' Financial Times

'Linda has tapped into something important - that we all need to be more entrepreneurial these days. With her impressive track record and inspiring story, she shows us all how to overcome our fears and take smart, achievable steps to improve our organisations' Sheryl Sandberg

'Buy it. Read it. Live it' Seth Godin

These days everybody needs to think and act like an entrepreneur. We all need to be nimble, adaptive, daring…


Book cover of Get Your Career in Shape: A Five-Step Guide to Achieve the Success You Need, Want, and Deserve

Zakiya Akerele Author Of Dump Your Degree: How to Repurpose Your Education, Control Your Career, and Gain Financial Freedom

From my list on managing your career and finances after college.

Why am I passionate about this?

Many degree holders experience career and financial challenges they aren't prepared to handle. I know this first hand because after completing my Ph.D., I faced joblessness and massive student loan debt, and after becoming a professor, I saw my students encounter similar situations. This prompted me to write, Dump Your Degree: How to Repurpose Your Education, Control Your Career, and Gain Financial Freedom. My mission is to provide tangible solutions to students and early career professionals so that they stop solely relying on their degrees but instead learn how to use the sum of their knowledge, skills, and talents in unique ways to create meaningful, viable careers.

Zakiya's book list on managing your career and finances after college

Zakiya Akerele Why did Zakiya love this book?

This insightful guide gives readers relatable, practical advice on developing their careers. Its message is empowering and rooted in proven methods that lead to success. Dr. Steele Flippin's SHAPE framework presents the importance of having solid finances, the true meaning of hard work, how to be your own advocate in the workplace, perseverance, and continued learning. Get Your Career in Shape is an invaluable resource for career success. 

By Candace Steele Flippin,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Get Your Career in Shape as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Instead of holding our careers down or back, women can rise―on our terms. Are you ready to own your power and take the next step in your career?

With groundbreaking research on women's leadership, Dr. Candace Steele Flippin's guidebook empowers women to "challenge the glass ceiling system within their own minds" (Tyree C. Daniels, executive chairman at Memphis College Preparatory).

Women's careers are held back by cultural norms, gender bias, sexism, and self-policing.

And too often, their self-efficacy―the belief in their ability to be successful―is at risk.

TEDx speaker Dr. Candace Steele Flippin has been recognized as one of the…


Book cover of Stand Out: How to Find Your Breakthrough Idea and Build a Following Around It

Mike Michalowicz Author Of Profit First: Transform Your Business from a Cash-Eating Monster to a Money-Making Machine

From my list on lead with confidence and grow a thriving business.

Why am I passionate about this?

By my 35th birthday, I had founded and sold two multi-million dollar companies…and proceeded to lose my entire fortune. I started all over again, driven to find better ways to grow healthy and strong businesses. I've devoted my life to the research and delivery of innovative, impactful entrepreneurial strategies to support the sustainability of businesses everywhere. My ultimate goal is to simplify entrepreneurship and help business owners avoid common pitfalls through keynote speaking and business authorship. It's all about serving!

Mike's book list on lead with confidence and grow a thriving business

Mike Michalowicz Why did Mike love this book?

Dorie and I have worked together in the past on webinars, masterminds, and the like, and I always learn something from her professor brain! In Stand Out, the message is that to make a name for yourself, you have to capitalize on your unique perspective and knowledge and inspire others to listen and take action.

But becoming a "thought leader" is a mysterious and opaque process. Where do the ideas come from, and how do they get noticed? Dorie explains how to identify the ideas that set you apart and promote them successfully. The key is to recognize your own value, cultivate your expertise, and put yourself out there.

By Dorie Clark,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Stand Out as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Standing out is no longer optional. Learn how to become a thought leader - the agenda setter, the go-to person - with Dorie Clark's Stand Out.

Too many people believe that if they keep their heads down and work hard, they'll gain the recognition they deserve. But that's simply not true anymore. To get noticed, create true job security, and make a difference in the world, you have to make sure your ideas get noticed.

Drawing on interviews with thought leaders including Seth Godin, David Allen and Daniel Pink, Dorie Clark shows you how to break through the clamour of…


Book cover of So Good They Can't Ignore You: Why Skills Trump Passion in the Quest for Work You Love
Book cover of Sort Your Career Out: And Make More Money
Book cover of The Career Change Guide: Five Steps to Finding Your Dream Job

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