Knowledge is the key to success with any endeavor, but especially in the real estate industry. With such a diverse skill set required (sales, negotiation, marketing, time management – the list goes on) it’s important to stay on top of the game by constantly learning new topics. Below is a short list of 10 of my favorite books. Each of these have had a substantial impact on my life and I’m confident they can have the same effect on your life as well:
Purple Cow - Seth Godin
These books aren’t in any specific order, but there’s a reason this is at the top. The premise of this book is “If you saw a purple cow, you’d stop and pay attention.” It explains that if you’re not being remarkable, no one will notice; you’ll get lost like the other boring brown cows. If you’re struggling to rise above the crowd or need help taking your real estate marketing to the next level, this is the book to read.
Talk Your Way to the Top - Kevin Hogan
Talk Your Way to the Top offers incredible insights into the world of personal communication. If you’re looking for more clarity when presenting your message, Kevin Hogan’s book can help you deliver your point more effectively and learn how to better understand others. A highly recommended read.
How to Win Friends & Influence People - Dale Carnegie
A timeless classic. I’m sure many of you have already read this one, but it might be time to pick it up again for a quick refresher. Arguably the greatest single volume on being “likable” ever written.
Body Language - Barbara & Allan Pease
A very informative resource on non-verbal communication. Body Language offers an in-depth guide to looking beyond the surface of what others say and into what they truly mean. It’s guaranteed to make you more conscious of how your movements and positioning effect how you’re perceived by others.
7 Habits of Highly Effective People - Stephen Covey
Being somewhat of a personal development junkie myself, this book is at the top of the list when it comes to taking control of your own life, your world and your success. With the tough market of today, there’s never been a more appropriate time to get your live, your mind and your future in shape.
The Effective Executive - Peter Drucker
The most widely read book from Peter Drucker (the management guru). It is, in a nutshell, the definitive guide to achieving more in the workplace. Covering primarily time management, delegation and decision making; The Effective Executive provides an insightful look into the world of personal (and professional) management.
Sales Dogs - Blair Singer
A somewhat lighthearted, but very powerful, guide to sales. The author compares salespeople to different breeds of dogs (i.e. the poodle, the pit bull, etc.) to determine which sales strategies they’re most effective at. Sales Dogs provides timeless tips into the world of selling and includes real estate applicable advice. should be a must read for any real estate professional.
Negotiate This - Herb Cohen
In my opinion, the greatest book on negotiation ever written. Herb Cohen is the master of teaching how to come out on top in any negotiation. Cohen presents the art of getting what you want from the other side in this surprisingly humorous book.
Science of Being Great - Wallace Wattles
It’s not a real estate book, it’s not a sales book, it’s not even a business book; but this short, condensed volume from Wallace Wattles is a gem when it comes to achieving the results you’re looking for in life. The Science of Being Great is sure to have an impact on your life.
Trump: The Art of the Deal - Donald Trump
My favorite book, period. The Art of the Deal is an absolute must read for anyone in business, real estate, or life for that matter. Traveling through the 1980’s with the world’s most famous Real Estate mogul; The Art of the Deal is sure to offer new a perspective on business and real estate.
Take Part!
These are 10 books that I love, but this is far from a complete list. I want to create an exhaustive resource that includes your choices as well. Here’s what I’m asking: Please leave a comment with one (or two, or three) of the books that have had an impact on your life. I will add your selections to this post (with credit given to you) and together we’ll create a valuable directory of the top books no real estate professional should be without.
**Reader Submitted Entries (THANK YOU ALL!)**
The Power of Focus
The E Myth Manager
What Color is your Parachute
The Little Red Book
Psychocybernetics
(Submitted by June Piper-Brandon)
The Monk and the Merchant
The Go-Getter
QBQ
Rhinoceros Success
(Submitted by Nicole Weidauer)
Never Eat Alone
4 Hour Work Week
Buzzoodle Marketing
(Submitted by Spencer Hill)
The Richest Man in Babylon
Think and Grow Rich
Rich Dad Poor Dad
Tao of Pooh
(Submitted by Pamela Williamson)
Brenda Kinsey
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