Welcome to the CM Book Club!
In addition to structured learning experiences, like the Aspiring Project Manager, independent reading is a great way to learn more about the wide world of project management. I've organized each book I'll review around the PMI Talent Triangle, which allows you to be more discerning in the books you spend your limited time on (are you looking for a read that helps you sharpen an already-honed skill, or are you looking for something to help you fill a skill gap?), as well as to be more organized in how you present your thoughts to an interviewer, a colleague, or anyone else you might find yourself talking "book shop" with.
I’m an affiliate with Bookshop.org, a storefront that supports indie booksellers. All of the links included on this page are affiliate links, so I’ll get an affiliate reward if you use them to purchase. If you choose to do so, thank you in advance for your support! (PS — my Bookshop.org storefront is also organized by the PMI Talent Triangle. We go all-in around here.)
“Whether it’s predictive, agile, design thinking, or new practices still to be developed, it's clear that there is more than one way that work gets done today.”
Ways of
Working
The PMBOK
The PMBOK stands for Project Management Body of Knowledge, aka the fundamental resource and global set of standards for all things PM.
If you’re a higher ed professional, think CAS standards for project managers. If you only make one purchase while beginning your PM journey, let it be this! (Totally non-negotiable if you’re considering pursuing a certification.)
Read more or purchase on Bookshop.org
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The Checklist Manifesto
An excellent read summarizing neatly and vividly why process is so important. Perfect for those looking to back up an intuitive understanding of process with examples.
Full review | Purchase on Bookshop.org
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Risk Up Front
A must-read for those looking to move into environments that they know will be Agile-focused, but also a powerful read for helping own the process of project management at the intersection of PM and organizational theory.
Full review | Purchase on Bookshop.org
“Professionals with business acumen understand the macro and micro influences in their organization and industry and have the function-specific or domain-specific knowledge to make good decisions.”
Business
Acumen
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Purpose & Profit
This book is a bit "think-y", and I found it so helpful while making my transition into values-aligned business.
Full review | Purchase on Bookshop.org
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Small is Beautiful
Small is Beautiful was the beginning of my journey into being an advocate for small businesses and local ecosystems. It's another "big-think-y" book, but I'm including it here because I also love books that show me what I can DO with project management.
Full review | Purchase on Bookshop.org
Power
Skills
“These interpersonal skills include collaborative leadership, communication, an innovative mindset, for-purpose orientation, and empathy.”
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Made to Stick
An immediately-usable handbook of how to make the way you communicate stick more easily. I bought this 3 chapters into my first read on checking it out from the library.
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If I Understood You
A great (and fun... yes, that Alan Alda!) read for those looking to dig into the science of relational communication.
Full review | Purchase on Bookshop.org