Welcome to My Favorite Books & Tools!
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Welcome to My Favorite Books & Tools! *
Explore a growing collection of the best books and resources for conflict resolution, leadership, and workplace dynamics—curated for HR leaders, managers, and professionals navigating complex workplace challenges.
Check back often for new recommendations!
Nonviolent Communication – How Empathy Can Transform Workplace Disputes
How do you communicate in a way that defuses conflict and builds understanding? Nonviolent Communication introduces a four-step process to express needs, listen actively, and create mutual respect. A must-read for HR professionals and leaders who navigate high-stakes conversations.
The Art of War for Leaders – Strategic Thinking for the Workplace: Leadership Lessons from The Art of War
What can ancient military strategy teach today’s leaders? The Art of War for Executives distills Sun Tzu’s wisdom into practical leadership strategies for the modern workplace. Learn how to anticipate challenges, outthink competitors, and lead with strategic foresight.
Why We Fight – Understanding the Roots of Conflict: Why We Fight and How to Stop It
Why do conflicts escalate, and how can we prevent them? Why We Fight explores the underlying causes of disputes, from personal clashes to global wars, offering research-backed strategies for de-escalation. Ideal for HR professionals and workplace leaders, this book provides insights into managing tensions before they spiral out of control.
When to Walk Away – The Power of Letting Go: Knowing When to Walk Away from Toxic Situations
Sometimes, the best conflict resolution strategy is knowing when to disengage. When to Walk Away offers guidance on recognizing when a workplace relationship or situation has become too toxic to fix. A must-read for leaders, HR professionals, and anyone struggling with workplace toxicity, this book helps set boundaries and protect mental well-being.
High Conflict – Breaking Free from High Conflict: How to Stop Workplace Feuds from Spiraling
What happens when conflict becomes all-consuming? High Conflict explores how workplace tensions, political divides, and personal disputes can spiral into destructive cycles—and how to break free. Amanda Ripley’s research-driven approach offers insights for HR leaders and professionals managing complex workplace conflicts.
The Beauty of Conflict – Rethinking Conflict: From Workplace Tension to Team Strength
Most people view conflict as something to avoid—but what if it could be a tool for transformation? The Beauty of Conflict reframes conflict as an opportunity for growth, creativity, and deeper collaboration. Through engaging stories and practical strategies, this book helps workplace teams harness conflict productively instead of letting it derail success.
Women Don’t Ask – The Cost of Not Negotiating: Why Women Must Ask for More
Why do so many women hesitate to negotiate for higher salaries, promotions, or better working conditions? Women Don’t Ask exposes the societal and psychological factors behind this negotiation gap and provides actionable strategies to close it. Essential reading for HR professionals and workplace leaders looking to foster gender equity and empower women in the workforce.
Good for You, Great for Me – Winning Negotiations Without Creating Resentment
Winning at negotiation isn’t just about claiming value—it’s about creating it. Good for You, Great for Me dives into the concept of “trading wisely,” where both parties walk away feeling satisfied while maximizing their own outcomes. Ideal for workplace leaders, HR professionals, and dealmakers, this book teaches the art of building trust while negotiating assertively.
Bargaining for Advantage – Winning Negotiations Without Losing Relationships
Great negotiators aren’t born—they’re made. In Bargaining for Advantage, G. Richard Shell blends psychology, strategy, and real-world examples to teach readers how to craft winning negotiation strategies. Whether you’re navigating salary discussions, business deals, or workplace conflicts, this book equips you with practical skills to strengthen your bargaining power.
The Power of a Positive No – Saying No Without Burning Bridges
Saying "no" can be one of the hardest things to do—especially in high-stakes workplace negotiations. The Power of a Positive No teaches you how to assert yourself with confidence while preserving relationships. Whether you're declining an unreasonable request, setting boundaries with a difficult employee, or negotiating workplace policies, this book provides a framework for standing your ground while keeping the conversation open.
Getting Past No – How to Turn Resistance into Agreement Without the Fight
Have you ever faced a conversation that felt like hitting a brick wall? Whether it's a difficult colleague, a resistant employee, or a high-stakes negotiation, getting past an emphatic "no" is a skill every leader must master. In Getting Past No, William Ury, co-author of Getting to Yes, provides a five-step strategy to transform resistance into cooperation. This book is a game-changer for HR leaders, executives, and professionals looking to defuse tension, navigate workplace disputes, and achieve positive outcomes—without escalating conflict.
Never Split the Difference – Negotiation Like Your Job Depends on It (Because It Does!)
Discover the negotiation tactics outlined in Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss, and learn how to apply FBI-tested strategies to your everyday interactions. https://amzn.to/3xyzABC
Extreme Ownership – Leadership Without Excuses: How Extreme Ownership Transforms Teams
Explore Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin, a profound guide on leadership principles derived from Navy SEAL experiences, emphasizing accountability and effective team management. Available here.
Conversational Intelligence – The Science of Conversations: How to Build Trust and Influence at Work
Discover how Conversational Intelligence by Judith E. Glaser unveils the neuroscience behind effective communication, offering tools to build trust and achieve extraordinary results in leadership and teamwork. Available here.
The Culture Code – Cracking the Code: What Makes Great Teams Thrive
Explore The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle, uncovering the secrets behind highly successful groups and the strategies they employ to build cohesive and thriving cultures. The Culture Code | Unlock The Secrets to the Most Successful Teams
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team – Why Some Teams Succeed (and Others Fall Apart)
Discover how The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni unveils common obstacles to team success and offers practical solutions to enhance collaboration and performance. Available here.
Dare to Lead – Brave Leadership: Why Vulnerability is a Strength, Not a Weakness
Explore Dare to Lead by Brené Brown, a profound guide on embracing vulnerability and courage in leadership. Learn how fostering trust and empathy can transform your organizational culture. Available here.
The Fearless Organization – Creating a Workplace Where People Speak Up (Without Fear)
Explore The Fearless Organization by Amy C. Edmondson, a comprehensive guide on fostering psychological safety to drive learning and innovation in the workplace. Learn how creating an open environment can lead to enhanced team performance and growth. Available here.
Radical Candor – How to Be a Kick-Ass Boss (Without Being a Jerk)
Discover how Radical Candor by Kim Scott offers a framework for effective leadership by balancing personal care with direct challenge. Learn to foster open communication and build strong teams. Available here.
The No Asshole Rule – Eliminating Toxic Workplace Behaviours
"Explore The No Asshole Rule by Robert I. Sutton, a transformative guide on eliminating toxic behavior in the workplace. Learn how fostering a culture of respect can enhance productivity and employee satisfaction. Available here