Out of the Boardinary Reading List
This page is a living library of the books we reference throughout the course. It’s designed as a practical extension of your learning and is a place you can return to for deeper insights, frameworks and tools to support your growth in leadership, communication and organisational effectiveness.
We’ll continue to add to this list over time, so check back whenever you want your next great read. 📚
How to Win Friends and Influence People - Dale Carnegie
Why it’s here: A foundational book on communication, relationships and influence that still underpins modern leadership practice
- Practical techniques for building trust and rapport quickly
- How to communicate in a way that motivates rather than creates resistance
- Timeless principles for handling conflict and giving feedback constructively
- A strong reminder that people skills are leadership skills
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People - Stephen R. Covey
Why it’s here: A classic framework for personal and professional effectiveness that shows up in many leadership models
- Moving from reactive to proactive leadership
- Clarifying values and aligning actions with what matters most
- Prioritisation and time management through the important vs urgent lens
- Building trust and collaboration through win-win thinking
- Long-term effectiveness over quick wins
Guide for Meetings and Organisations - Nicholas Renton
Why it’s here: A practical guide for running better meetings and strengthening how groups function
- Clear structures that make meetings purposeful and efficient
- Roles, agendas and decision-making processes that reduce confusion
- How to keep groups focused on outcomes rather than just discussion
- Tools for improving participation and accountability
Never Split the Difference - Chris Voss
Why it’s here: A highly practical approach to negotiation and high-stakes conversations, drawn from real-world experience
- Tactical empathy: understanding others to influence outcomes
- Communication techniques for difficult conversations
- How to ask calibrated questions that move things forward
- Negotiation as collaboration rather than confrontation
- Useful for leadership, partnerships and everyday conversations
Good to Great - Jim Collins
Why it’s here: A research-based look at what separates good organisations from truly great ones
- The importance of disciplined people, thought and action
- Getting the right people on the bus before setting direction
- The Hedgehog Concept: clarity about what you do best and why it matters
- Building sustainable success rather than chasing quick growth
- Leadership that is humble, focused and consistent