As technology leaders, continual self-improvement through reading is imperative for driving innovation and strategic vision. Though each leadership journey is unique, we can all benefit from the hard-earned wisdom of those who’ve come before us.
This year, we connected with our community of CIOs and technology executives again to uncover which books piqued their interest over the past year. While no list can capture all the books worth reading, we hope you find intellectual fuel here as we enter a new year of discovery.
And if these top recommendations don’t quite catch your fancy, check out the over 100+ book recommendations in your CIO Bookshelf.
Taking the Reins as CIO: A Blueprint for Leadership Transitions
Authors Tony Gerth and Joe Peppard assist newly appointed CIOs by guiding them through the process of learning while empowering them to take effective action until they achieve a level that ensures their effectiveness in a role. Based on insights gathered from over 200 interviews with CIOs, CxOs, and recruiters, this book provides guidance on assuming the role of an executive with a focus on information and technology, presenting 10 key prescriptions for achieving optimal success.
The Space Between Strategy and Execution
Drawing from author Gregg Harden’s extensive consulting experience, The Space Between guides readers through business transformation, addressing common pitfalls, providing illustrative examples, and offering valuable tips for success. By focusing on key phases such as strategy development, benefits realization, and measurement, this read equips business executives and entrepreneurs with the knowledge and tools needed to bridge the gap between strategy and desired outcomes.
In The Elephant in the Boardroom, award-winning leadership psychologist Edgar Papke explores the unique and challenging relationship that leaders have with conflict and offers the know-how needed to use conflict as the engine of innovation and creativity. This book will teach readers how to act courageously and be better equipped to lead and win in today’s complex and turbulent world. “When leaders fail to confront conflict, they become the ‘biggest elephant’ in the room.”
Your Strategy Needs a Strategy: How to Choose and Execute the Right Approach
In an environment that becomes more uncertain and complex by the day, it’s never been more important―or more difficult―to choose the right approach to strategy. In this book, members from The Boston Consulting Group offer a proven method to determine the best strategy to use. You think you have a winning strategy. But do you?
Through “Elevate Your Team,” author Robert Glazer offers an evidence-based guide for leaders who seek to harness the collective potential of their teams, effectively drive progress, and ultimately shape a harmonious and high-achieving workplace culture. He also introduces a comprehensive framework of actionable strategies designed to empower leaders and their teams to thrive. This book lays out a blueprint for cultivating a culture of continuous learning, achievement, and growth while mitigating the risk of burnout.
In Think Like a CTO, Alan Williamson bridges the gap between technical expertise and strategic leadership. The book provides readers with insights into the mindset and skills required to think and act like a CTO. It is designed to empower both current and aspiring CTOs, as well as other technology professionals seeking to enhance their strategic thinking and decision-making abilities.
The Adventures of an IT Leader
The Adventures of an IT Leader offers an insightful exploration into the challenges and complexities of becoming an effective IT leader and manager. This book presents a comprehensive view of the multifaceted role IT leaders undertake in navigating the landscape of technology and business. The narrative follows the journey of new CIO Jim Barton as he steps into a leadership position within his organization, providing readers with a firsthand account of the trials and triumphs he encounters during his initial year.
The Nimble C-Suite emphasizes the importance of being nimble in order to succeed in the future. It argues that traditional corporate structures and leadership strategies are insufficient in meeting the demands of a business environment. The book offers solutions to overcome these limitations and thrive in a Transformational Economy, focusing on bringing “Nimbility” to organizations. Readers will discover the benefits of innovation and the value of resilience in reducing risks and enabling rapid recovery from undesired situations.
Future Ready: The Four Pathways to Capturing Digital Value
“Future Ready” by Stephanie L. Woerner serves as a playbook that guides and motivates teams, ensuring alignment towards a common objective. As it is common for companies to embark on a “digital transformation” journey, it is also common for them to commence without a well-defined vision or a clear strategy. Woerner says the key to success and future preparedness lies in having a strategic roadmap – and now, you have one within your reach.
The Digital Transformation Playbook: Rethink Your Business for the Digital Age
Author David L. Rogers shows why traditional businesses need to rethink their underlying assumptions in five domains of strategy―customers, competition, data, innovation, and value. He reveals how to harness customer networks, platforms, big data, rapid experimentation, and disruptive business models―and how to integrate these into your existing business and organization.
