8 Books that every entrepreneur should read

We believe that reading and gaining valuable insights from others can be a crucial part in scaling your business. Each of the books below has had an impact on our team and we hope it does the same for yours. Here’s our top 8 books we suggest every entrepreneur should read! 

“Reading is essential for those who seek to rise above the ordinary.” – Jim Rohn, American Entrepreneur 

 1. Influence: Psychology of Persuasion by Dr. Robert Cialdini 

Ever wondered how to persuade someone into buying a product? The information given in this book is based on 35 years of research which talks about the psychology of persuading people and gives sound advice regarding the power of influence. This book also includes the six universal principles and how to use them in the right way: reciprocation, social proof, commitment, consistency, liking, authority and scarcity. 

2. The Art of Hustling: Sell or Surrender by DJ Sbu

This book will act as a practical handbook, showing you exactly how to understand sales for what it is, an art form. It incorporates DJ Sbu’s belief that you will never go a day without eating if you know how to sell. It is also his belief that this book can help South Africa’s unemployment issues. DJ Sbu’s career definitely proves his resilience and awe-inspiring innovation. 

3. Screw It, Let’s Do It: Lessons In Life by Richard Branson

One of the world’s most renowned entrepreneurs, Richard Branson, has built an empire for himself and has made billions of dollars. This book speaks about his journey. From the beginning to where he is at the moment, sharing some of the tips and secrets that he has learnt and used during his life.  

4. Chasing the High: An Entrepreneur's Mindset Through Addiction, Lawsuits, and His Journey to the Edge by Michael G. Dash

A successful entrepreneur and former functioning addict, tells his story of how he was heavily addicted to drugs and gambling. Michael offers insights and convictions to anyone who is battling in the darkness of addiction as a potential leader. He also  exposes the world of the functioning drug addicts as leaders.  

5. Meeting Your Power: Returning Home To Yourself by DJ Zinhle

In this book, DJ Zinhle and Nokubonga Mbanga, share the lessons they’ve both learnt about the journey of life in an inspirational way that will awake the power within you. DJ Zinhle and Nokubonga Mbanga have set out to show the reader that anything is possible when you trust the power that each person has been given. 

6. How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie

In addition to teaching you how to be a better entrepreneur, this book will show you what to do and what not to do when it comes to your social life. This book will also show you exactly how to get people who are simply close-minded to listen to you and actually become your friend by breaking down certain steps that one could follow.  

7. Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

The author of this book insightfully writes about the two ways our mind is linked to being successful in life. There is the slow and logically inclined version of our minds as well  as the quick, fast and emotional side of things in our mind. This book is for anyone who would like to become highly successful in life without stepping on anyone's toes. 

8. Vusi: Business & life lessons from a black dragon by Vusi Thembekwayo

Self-made millionaire and Dragon, Vusi, wrote this book with his past in mind, taking the reader on a journey from the townships to success by becoming CEO of a boutique investment firm. A book that will inspire people to not only talk business but to also walk the walk of a serious entrepreneur. Now a ‘Dragon’s Den’ judge and highly respected global speaker, Vusi wrote this book so that you can learn the secrets of his success and hopefully become the next big Dragon. 

We hope these books will make their way into your top 10 best reads of 2021 by equipping you with the skills needed to scale your business!