Top Leadership Books for PhD Students
When asked for must-read books for PhD students interested in leadership, Dr. Cory Scott, Program Director of Alliant International University’s PhD in Leadership program, suggested these three books:
- “Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us” by Daniel H. Pink: This book challenges traditional notions of motivation. It argues that people are motivated by more than just money and rewards. Pink explores the concept of intrinsic motivation. How can leaders create environments that foster creativity, innovation, and engagement.
- “Leaders Eat Last” by Simon Sinek: The author explores what he calls the “circle of safety”. This is how leaders can create a sense of trust and belonging in their organizations. When leaders focus on employee well-being, they build loyalty, creating a culture that drives success and sustainable growth.
- “Mindset: The New Psychology of Success” by Carol Dweck: This book explores the concept of growth mindset versus fixed mindset. Dweck argues that people who have a growth mindset are more likely to succeed. His reasoning; they believe that their abilities can be developed through hard work and dedication. This book is a great resource for anyone who wants to cultivate a growth mindset and become a more effective leader.
Additional Book Suggestions
He believes it’s important to acknowledge the following books, although the three mentioned above are the ones that have had the most recent impact on him.
- “The Art of Possibility: Transforming Professional and Personal Life” by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander
- “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey
- “The Power of Positive Leadership” by Jon Gordon
- “Good to Great” by Jim Collins
- “The Five Dysfunctions of a Team” by Patrick Lencioni
- “Primal Leadership: Realizing the Power of Emotional Intelligence” by Daniel Goleman, Richard Boyatzis, and Annie McKee
- “Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action” by Simon Sinek
– Dr. Cory Scott, Assistant Professor, PhD in Leadership Program Director, Alliant International University