We know how busy tech founders are. Between talking with investors, keeping employees happy and productive, and, you know, actually running your company, it can be hard to find time to read. However, founders should know they don’t need to come up with everything on their own. Many successful founders and investors have documented their most salient advice, and taking a bit of time to read every so often can have valuable returns.
So, what books should be at the top of your priority list?
1. The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz
Written by the cofounder of Andreessen Horowitz and serial entrepreneur, The Hard Thing about Hard Things is a novel that discusses problems that can arise when running a team. The book discusses many of the things that can go wrong when running a company and how to turn things around when something goes awry.
2. Good to Great by Jim Collins
Good to Great is a research-driven book on how good companies can, as the name implies, become great. This book is an essential for any founder looking to take their company to the next level.
3. The Lean Startup by Eric Ries
Ries’ book provides a scientific way to create and manage startups. It reduces the risk of innovation by providing a clear path to entrepreneurship.
4. Venture Deals by Brad Feld
Brad Feld is an extremely experienced investor and entrepreneur. Venture Deals tells you everything you need to know about valuating your company, considering your funding options, and raising money. It’s a must read for any entrepreneur ready to raise money.
5. Factfulness: Ten Reasons We’re Wrong About the World – and Why Things Are Better Than You Think by Hans Rosling
While this book isn’t a traditional business book, it’s an important read for founders considering their role in the world. One of Bill Gates’ favorite books, it discusses how to think about the world, and each of these framing lessons can be applied to your daily life and your company.
