What Are You Reading (or Listening To)?

So, now you have the job and progressing nicely; I’m proud of you! I want you to take the time to be a life-long learner. What does this mean? Well, at the very least 40 hours of training in your field annually, along with training to keep your certifications in good standing. Also, taking time for some personal leadership development. Even if you are not in a formal leadership position, it’s important to develop your leading-self capabilities. Here are a few of my favorite books. These are not paid endorsements: just books that have made a difference for me.  

• 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, by Steven Covey: This book is a mainstay in the space of my self-development. Keep in mind, it’s only helpful when I take time to activate the lessons. This is a book that can easily take a year to get through, if you apply and reflect on the assignments. There is a 7 Habits Personal Workbook you can use as well. You can find it on Amazon. This book was a game changer!

• What Got You Here, Won’t Get You There, by Dr. Marshall Goldsmith: This is my leadership pillar. I keep this on my desk and consciously implement elements daily! Dr. Goldsmith spells out 20 bad habits leaders need to eliminate. Full transparency: Before I got this book 10 years ago, my leadership capabilities were taking a nose dive. I suggest this book to mentees who are moving into the leadership ranks. But you don’t have to wait on a leadership position to begin developing your skills — you can start today! Oh, and Dr. Goldsmith has great presentations on YouTube.

• Never Eat Alone, by Keith Ferrazzi: This book homes in on developing a professional network. I found it a great guide for making authentic connections, evaluating my purpose and taking positive steps to building a personal brand.

• Podcast: Regularly, I listen to Coaching for Leaders, with Dave Stachowiak — this podcast is rich with knowledgeable guests who provide relevant information on leadership for the 21st century!

Keep your personal development a priority throughout your professional journey! Let me know what you are reading! 

Treva Smith is a federal human resources, diversity and inclusion, and business operations professional, with over 33 years of service. Treva enjoys advising and mentoring individuals navigating their career paths to meet identified goals. She specializes in career planning and personal branding, and is certified to instruct Business Etiquette through the distinguished Protocol School of Washington and a certified Global Career Development Facilitator through National Employment Counseling Association. Connect with her on LinkedIn.