After many months of not writing, I’m excited to resume, and this time, in English. As some of you may know, I moved to Berlin six months ago. I chose Berlin because of the abundant job opportunities for non-natives. While speaking German is beneficial, it’s not mandatory. Many international companies here use English as their primary language. However, for administrative tasks, German can be quite helpful. Additionally, I believe it’s respectful to learn the language of your new home. So, I’ve begun my language journey. “Hallo, Mein Name ist Irene” 🙂 I hope to write a post in German someday!
Now, I’d like to discuss a common question you might encounter during job interviews: “What three books would you recommend leaders read and why?” This question often assesses your communication skills.
Initially, I found this question challenging because I prefer reading articles over HR books. However, keeping the objectives in mind — assessing my communication skills and suggesting valuable reads for leaders — I realized there are numerous books that fulfill these criteria. Here are my top three recommendations:
THE FOUR AGREEMENTS by Don Miguel Ruiz
At InfoJobs, we gifted this book to all team members. The author shares four life principles, rooted in ancient Toltec wisdom, to enhance happiness and reduce unnecessary suffering:
- Be impeccable with your word. Speak with integrity. Say only what you mean. Avoid using the word to speak against yourself or to gossip about others.
- Don’t take anything personally. The things other people do are not because of you.
- Don’t make assumptions. Find the courage to ask questions and to express what you really want. Communicate with others as clearly as you can to avoid misunderstandings.
- Always do your best.
Why is it essential for leadership?
- It enhances communication and relationship-building.
- It refines feedback delivery and reception. ‘Go always to the source’
- It promotes self-awareness and empathy.
- It encourages direct, open conversations.
- It perpetually pushes the boundaries of what’s possible.
After introducing this book at InfoJobs, the frequency of gossip and negativity decreased, with the principles of direct communication being adopted widely.
ENDER’S GAME by Orson Scott
This military science fiction novel delves into preparing children for an impending invasion by an “insectoid” alien species.
Why is it essential for leadership?
- It emphasizes the value of teamwork and mutual trust.
- It underscores the significance of genuine leadership.
- It teaches the importance of not pre-judging and the value of open-mindedness in conflict resolution.
TOUCHING THE VOID by Joe Simpson
Simpson narrates his and Simon Yates’ traumatic climb of the 6,344-meter Siula Grande in the Peruvian Andes in 1985.
Why is it essential for leadership?
- It champions ambition and relentless pursuit of goals.
- It advocates resilience and adaptability in adversity.
- It emphasizes learning from mistakes and their outcomes.
What are your thoughts? Which three books would you recommend to company leaders?