Stepping into a management role for the first time is like being handed the keys to a shiny new car—exciting, intimidating, and full of potential. But let’s be honest: no matter how thrilling it is, you’re bound to hit a few bumps in the road. That’s where the right guidance comes in. If you’re a new manager, your journey will be a lot smoother if you have a good map. And by a map, I mean books—real, insightful, tried-and-true guides that can help you navigate the twists and turns of managing people.
When I first became a manager, I felt like I was dropped into the deep end of the pool without any swimming lessons. Sure, I had the basics down, but the daily grind of leading a team was something else entirely. I needed advice, but not the kind you get from a quick chat with a mentor or a skim through a blog post. I needed wisdom, the kind that comes from people who have been in the trenches. And I found it in books.
So, here’s my take on the top 10 best books for new managers. These aren’t just any books—they’re the ones that will stick with you, guide you, and maybe even save you from a few sleepless nights.
1. The First 90 Days by Michael D. Watkins
Let’s start with a book that should be on every new manager’s nightstand: The First 90 Days by Michael D. Watkins. This book is like your survival guide for the first three months in any new role. Think of it as a playbook that helps you make a strong first impression, establish your credibility, and avoid those rookie mistakes that everyone secretly fears.
When I read this book, I felt like someone had handed me the cheat code to management. Watkins breaks down those crucial early days into manageable steps, helping you to set clear goals, learn the ropes quickly, and build the relationships that will make or break your success. It’s not just about surviving—it’s about thriving from day one.
2. The Effective Manager by Mark Horstman
Next up is The Effective Manager by Mark Horstman, a book that cuts through the noise and gets straight to the point. I love this book because it’s practical, actionable, and doesn’t waste your time with fluff. Horstman lays out a simple, effective approach to managing people—focusing on communication, delegation, coaching, and performance management.
What I found most valuable about this book is how it teaches you to build strong, trust-based relationships with your team. Horstman’s advice is clear and straightforward: have regular one-on-ones, give feedback, and don’t shy away from tough conversations. These aren’t just tips; they’re the building blocks of a successful management career. If you’re new to the game and wondering where to start, start here.
3. The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo
Let’s talk about The Making of a Manager by Julie Zhuo, a book that feels like a warm, reassuring chat with a friend who’s been there, done that. Zhuo’s journey from being a fresh-faced newbie to leading teams at Facebook is something we can all relate to—because, let’s face it, most of us aren’t born knowing how to manage.
Zhuo’s strength lies in her honesty. She doesn’t pretend that management is easy or that she always had the answers. Instead, she shares her mistakes, her learnings, and the moments of doubt that shaped her into the leader she is today. This book is a gem for anyone who feels overwhelmed by the responsibility of managing others. It reminds you that it’s okay not to have all the answers—as long as you’re willing to learn and grow.
4. Radical Candor by Kim Scott
If there’s one book that changed the way I think about giving feedback, it’s Radical Candor by Kim Scott. Scott’s mantra is simple but powerful: care personally, challenge directly. This book is all about finding that sweet spot between being a push-over and being a jerk—because let’s be real, neither of those work if you want to be an effective manager.
Scott’s approach to leadership is refreshingly human. She encourages you to build real relationships with your team, rooted in trust and respect. But she also pushes you to hold people accountable, to be honest about their performance, and to have the tough conversations that most of us dread. Radical Candor is not just a book—it’s a philosophy that can transform your leadership style.
5. Bringing Up the Boss by Rachel Pacheco
Bringing Up the Boss by Rachel Pacheco is like a handbook for every new manager who’s trying to find their footing. This book is packed with practical advice, relatable stories, and a healthy dose of humor. Pacheco doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges of management—she tackles them head-on, offering solutions that are both effective and realistic.
What I love about this book is its focus on the human side of management. Pacheco talks about the importance of empathy, emotional intelligence, and creating a positive work culture. She also gives you tools to handle the tricky stuff—like dealing with difficult employees or managing up. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to be the kind of boss people actually want to work for.
6. The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni
Now, let’s dive into a book that’s more story than textbook: The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni. This book is different from most management books because it’s written as a fable. But don’t let that fool you—Lencioni’s insights are sharp, and they’ll hit you right where it matters.
This book made me rethink everything I thought I knew about teamwork. Lencioni breaks down the common pitfalls that teams fall into—like lack of trust, fear of conflict, and absence of accountability—and offers strategies to overcome them. If you’re struggling to get your team to work together effectively, this book will give you the tools to turn things around.
7. Crucial Conversations by Kerry Patterson, et al.
Managing people means dealing with conversations that are anything but easy. That’s where Crucial Conversations comes in. This book is all about navigating those tough talks—whether it’s addressing poor performance, giving feedback, or resolving conflicts.
What I appreciate about this book is its practical, step-by-step approach to communication. The authors teach you how to stay calm under pressure, how to listen actively, and how to speak in a way that’s both clear and compassionate. It’s a must-read for anyone who wants to build strong, healthy relationships with their team.
8. Turn the Ship Around! by L. David Marquet
If you’re looking for a leadership book that’s packed with inspiration, look no further than Turn the Ship Around! by L. David Marquet. This book tells the true story of how Marquet, a former Navy submarine captain, turned a struggling crew into one of the best-performing teams in the Navy.
What makes this book stand out is Marquet’s emphasis on empowerment. Instead of barking orders, he focused on giving his crew the autonomy to make decisions and take ownership of their work. This approach not only transformed his team—it transformed his leadership style. Turn the Ship Around! is a powerful reminder that the best leaders are the ones who trust their people.
9. Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin
Speaking of taking ownership, Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin is a book that every new manager should read. Willink and Babin, both former Navy SEALs, share the lessons they learned on the battlefield and how those lessons apply to leadership in the business world.
This book is all about accountability. Willink and Babin’s message is clear: if you want your team to succeed, you need to take responsibility for everything that happens—good or bad. It’s a tough-love approach, but it’s one that works. This book will challenge you to step up, lead by example, and never pass the buck.
10. Welcome to Management by Ryan Hawk
Rounding out the list is Welcome to Management by Ryan Hawk, a book that’s packed with practical advice for first-time managers. Hawk combines his own experiences with insights from top leaders, offering a comprehensive guide to everything from building a team to driving results.
What I found most valuable about this book is its emphasis on continuous learning. Hawk encourages new managers to stay curious, to seek out feedback, and to never stop improving. It’s a reminder that management isn’t a destination—it’s a journey. And with the right mindset, it’s a journey that can be incredibly rewarding.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a manager for the first time is one of the most challenging—and rewarding—experiences in your career. The books I’ve shared with you aren’t just helpful; they’re game-changers. Each one offers something unique, whether it’s a strategy for building trust, a lesson in accountability, or a new perspective on leadership.
But here’s the thing: no book can do the work for you. You have to take what you learn and apply it, day in and day out. So, which book are you going to start with? What’s the first step you’re going to take to become the leader your team needs?
I’d love to hear your thoughts. Have you read any of these books? What’s your go-to resource for management advice? Let’s talk about it in the comments!
