There are many books that can help you learn about business strategy, but here are some of the most popular and recommended ones:
- Blue Ocean Strategy by W. Chan Kim and Renée Mauborgne: This book explains how to create and capture new demand, break the value/cost trade-off, and redefine market boundaries to create a leap in value for buyers. It is a must-read for business leaders that want to create or sustain healthy profit margins1
- The Innovator’s Dilemma by Clayton Christensen: This book reveals how a relentless focus on serving customer needs can cause a great business to be overtaken by an innovative startup. It also explores practical strategies for avoiding disruption. It is a must-read for the leaders of well-established businesses as well as founders of disruptive startups2
- Playing to Win by A. G. Lafley and Roger L. Martin: This book describes how A. G. Lafley drastically improved Procter & Gamble’s sales and profitability by basing operational strategy on five key questions: What is our winning aspiration? Where will we play? How will we win? What capabilities must we have? What management systems are required? It is a must-read for anyone who wants to learn how strategy really works3
- Good Strategy Bad Strategy by Richard Rumelt: This book dissects effective strategies and points out qualities that make these plans succeed. It also identifies the markings of poor plans, and gives tips for spotting bad strategies. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to learn the difference between a good strategy and a bad strategy4
- Your Next Five Moves by Patrick Bet-David and Greg Dinkin: This book challenges readers to think like chess grandmasters and anticipate chains of events. It also gives advice on clarifying company missions, developing team building skills, and gaining the upper hand against powerful players. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to master the art of business strategy5
- Built to Last by Jim Collins and Jerry I. Porras: This book compares visionary companies that have endured and prospered for decades with less successful rivals. It reveals the habits and practices that enable these companies to preserve their core values and adapt to changing environments. It is a must-read for anyone who wants to turn a good company into a great company.
I hope this list helps you find some good books to learn business strategy. If you want to read more about these books, you can check out the links I provided. 😊