The Best Entrepreneur Books for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Faculty-Approved Reading to Propel Your Success

Starting an entrepreneurial journey requires more than ambition; it demands guidance and wisdom from those who’ve walked the path before. We asked our faculty members to share the best entrepreneur books- reads that have shaped their entrepreneurial prowess and mindset. In this blog, we’re sharing a curated list of their answers so you can start the new year inspired and armed with knowledge.

What are the best books to read for entrepreneurs?

If you’re looking for the best entrepreneur books to ignite your business acumen and drive success, look no further. At Golisano Institute, our faculty and staff have carefully curated a list of the top 10 best entrepreneur books that go beyond conventional wisdom and provide invaluable insights into the dynamic world of entrepreneurship. These reads serve as mentors in print, sparking innovation, inspiring action, and shaping mindsets. Dive into these recommended reads and discover expert guidance to navigate the complexities of the business landscape. Fuel your entrepreneurial spirit and unlock your full potential with the wisdom of these must-read books:

1. All Marketers are Liars by Seth Godin: Unveiling the art of persuasive storytelling in marketing, this book challenges the conventional and underscores the importance of authenticity, essential for entrepreneurs who are looking to craft compelling brand narratives.
2. Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth: Exploring the transformative potential of resilience, Duckworth’s work underlines the significance of perseverance and passion, crucial traits for any entrepreneur navigating challenges and sustaining long-term success.
3. Banker to the Poor by Muhammad Yunus: Yunus’s memoir illustrates the profound impact of microfinance and social entrepreneurship, offering insights into creating businesses with a purpose. This book is ideal for socially conscious entrepreneurs seeking to make a difference.
4. Winnie-the-Pooh on Management by Rodger E. Allen: Drawing from the whimsical world of Pooh, this book presents charming yet profound leadership and management lessons, demonstrating the value of simplicity and empathy in business leadership.
5. Leadership in Administration by Phillip Selznick: Delving into the core principles of leadership within organizational structures, Selznick’s work provides strategic insights for entrepreneurs aiming to cultivate effective leadership styles tailored to their ventures.
6. The $100 Startup by Chris Guillebeau: Offering a blueprint for launching successful businesses on minimal budgets, Guillebeau’s book inspires aspiring entrepreneurs with real-life examples and actionable strategies to turn ideas into profitable ventures.
7. EQ Applied: The Real-World Guide to Emotional Intelligence by Justin Bariso: Highlighting the significance of emotional intelligence in professional settings, this guide equips entrepreneurs with the essential skills to navigate complexities, foster relationships, and make informed decisions crucial for business success.
8. The Lean Startup by Eric Ries: Revolutionizing startup methodology, Ries advocates for iterative development and customer feedback, making this book indispensable for entrepreneurs who are seeking streamlined approaches to validate ideas and optimize their resources.
9. Entrepreneurial You by Dorie Clark: Clark’s comprehensive guide offers insights into diversifying your income streams and monetizing expertise. This one is a must-read for entrepreneurs looking to expand their business models and revenue streams effectively.
10. Built Not Born by Tom Golisano: Drawing from personal experience, Golisano shares invaluable lessons on entrepreneurship, inspiring aspiring business owners to cultivate an entrepreneurial mindset and build resilient businesses from the ground up. The author, Tom Golisano, is the founder of Golisano Institute for Business and Entrepreneurship.

Take the next step to apply your knowledge

Jumpstart your entrepreneurial journey with the wisdom and insights from these Golisano Institute faculty-recommended reads. Each read encapsulates invaluable lessons, igniting your entrepreneurial spirit and fortifying your arsenal of knowledge. Ready to take the first step towards building your future in business? Schedule an info session to connect with the admissions team at Golisano Institute!