Best career books: 11 picks from psychologists and career coaches

We take a peek into the bookshelves of employment experts and psychologists for their must-read titles to supercharge your career.

If you need an injection of career motivation, picking up a new book can be a great way to get you excited about your job.

Whether that’s picking up an autobiography by the top players in your field, a stimulating read into the psychology behind work and management, or something that tackles specific career problems, your options aren’t limited to the self-help section either.

For inspiration, we’ve reached out to three career experts on the books they recommend to their clients. From works on management, introversion, feminism and more, consider adding these expert-approved picks to your list.

SABINA READ, SEEK’S RESIDENT PSYCHOLOGIST

Sabina’s pick: What Colour is My Parachute? by Richard Nelson Bolles.

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Playing Big: Find Your Voice, Your Mission, Your Message by Tara Mohr

Tara Mohr’s writing is very much directed at women and encourages her readers to play big and not shrink themselves in professional settings. One of the things she talks about that I love is how language impacts how we present in the world. For example, how the word ‘just’ is dialling yourself down, and how it suggests you’re apologising for yourself before you ask for what you need or express who you are.

There’s some good content in her book about dialling yourself up and that’s important whether you’re going into a job interview, looking for a promotion or considering a career change because anything that erodes yourself or feeds the self-questioning beast is going to impact your chances of good employment options.

Find Your Why by Peter Docker, David Mead, Simon Sinek and Start with Why by Simon Sinek

Anything from Simon Sinek is a good pick too. His books are really about finding your purpose and they ask you to think about why you do what you do, whatever level of seniority you’re at.

What Colour is My Parachute? by Richard Nelson Bolles

I think this read has stood the test of time for someone who’s asking themselves what they want to do with their life vocationally. Also, from my observations I’ve found that some of the best books which stimulate thinking and career change are those that are more psychology based. Some great reads in this category include Mindset by Dr Carol S. Dweck or Emotional Intelligence by Dan Coleman.

LEAH LAMBART, CAREER AND INTERVIEW COACH

Leah’s pick: Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain.

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Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World that Can’t Stop Talking by Susan Cain

This is a great book that I recommend to many of my introverted clients who feel intimidated by the world around them and feel as if they have to ‘act’ like an extrovert to fit in. A great book for building confidence and self-esteem and a must-read for all the introverts out there and the parents of younger introverts.

Crucial Conversations by Al Switzler, Joseph Grenny, and Ron McMillan

This is a book that I recommend to many clients who shy away from crucial conversations, those conversations where the stakes are high, opinions differ or where emotions run high. This book will help you develop the skills to handle those crucial conversations that may influence positive change for yourself and for others.

JANE JACKSON, CAREER COACH AND SPEAKER

Jane’s pick: Zen and the Art of Making a Living by Laurence Boldt.

Zen and the Art of Making a Living by Laurence Boldt

I love this book because it takes a holistic approach to career management and provides a proven formula for bringing creativity, dignity, and meaning to every aspect of the work experience. The principles are provided by Laurence Boldt who is a career consultant, and lifetime student of Eastern philosophies.

Navigating Career Crossroads by Jane Jackson

A book for all professionals making a career transition, first published in 2015. I wrote this book because I am on a mission to make careers guidance accessible to all who need it. This book covers the seven essential steps to take control of your career and thrive when changing direction. From building self confidence to gaining career clarity, the seven steps take you on a journey to secure your ideal job and on-board into your new role smoothly.

This article was created in partnership with SEEK