10 Books for aspiring career women

Career Advice: 10 Books every career woman should read

Amanda Lim

27 Oct 2015

updated the 16 May 2016 à 10:17

1/10
Lean In: Woman, Work and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg
Following her highly viewed TEDTalk, Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg expands on her concept of “leaning in” with her bestselling book. Sandberg explores the reasons why there are so little women in leadership positions and offers practical advice on how women can climb the career ladder and rise through the ranks.
2/10
Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office by Lois P. Frankel
Does being nice hinder your career? Frankel certainly thinks so. In her book she lists down a whopping 101 mistakes women unwittingly commit that are sabotaging their careers. In turns she offers tips and suggestions that can help women get ahead in their careers.
3/10
If you have to Cry, Go Outside by Kelly Cutrone
If you’ve seen an episode of America’s Next Top Model, then you’re probably familiar with PR Fashion Maven, Kelly “Cutthroat” Cutrone. This part memoir, part self-help will inspire you with Cutrone’s story of rising from fashion outsider to powerhouse. Raw, funny and brutally honest, you will definitely be able to finish this “self-help” in one sitting.
4/10
Brag! The Art of Tooting Your Own Horn Without Blowing It by Peggy Klaus
It can be pretty awkward just talking about yourself, but this book highlights the importance of showcasing your talents and achievements. The trick is to do it in a natural way that makes you feel comfortable!
5/10
The Path Redefined: Getting to the Top on Your Own Terms by Lauren Maillian Bias
Bias is one heck of woman. At 19, she founded a boutique winery that became an award-winning brand. She also co-founded Gen Y Capital Partners and is one of the few female venture capitalists. After you’re done with the last page, Bias’s story will leave you feeling like you can conquer the world.
6/10
Bossypants by Tina Fey
Though not a self-help book, the autobiography of Hollywood’s boss lady is a must-rea as she is a great role model for the career girl. The book is the next best thing to having Fey as a personal mentor, and its pretty darn funny too.
7/10
Basic Black by Cathie Black
Would you like to learn how to successfully convince a mogul like Oprah herself? Then read Black’s career manual filled with useful advice that are shared in lists and in candid personal stories by Black.
8/10
You Want Me to Work with Who? By Julia Jensen
We’ve all encountered a few people we wouldn’t choose to interact with if not for work. This book by career consultant Julie Jensen gives her readers eleven “keys” to getting along even with the most difficult of colleagues. With this book in your arsenal, it will make sure no one stands in the way of your success
9/10
Careers Advice for Ambitious Women by Mrs Moneypenny
As its title suggests, the book is just as straightforward as its author. Financial Times columnist Mrs Moneypenny, who has been dishing advice from over a decade, gives pointers in her book for women on how to advance in their career at any age and any stage.
10/10
How to Dress for Success by Edith Head
Whether you’d like to believe it or not, what you wear matters. From Audrey to Elizabeth, Head has dressed the biggest stars of her time. When this book was originally released in 1967, it became a resource to help women navigate the professional world and their personal lives. This book may be almost 50 years old, but it definitely is still relevant today.

Lean In: Woman, Work and the Will to Lead by Sheryl Sandberg

Glean some professional advice from books by some of the most successful career women.

In today’s competitive job market, a degree is no longer a guarantee. That’s why it is crucial to stand out to land the job of your dreams and succeed at it.

One of the best things to have is the advice from women who have been there and back again. However, not all of us are fortunate enough to have such a mentor by our side.

Hence, the next best thing to that is a solid book, written by a successful woman who has tons of knowledge to impart to the next generation of career women. These books not only dish out practical and useful advice, but also empower women with the belief that they can achieve the same level of success that a man can.

To learn from the best, check out our gallery for a list of self-help career manuals. With these ten books to in your arsenal, you will feel empowered to achieve the career of your dreams without a hitch.

Amanda Lim

Required Readings: Our 5 favourite must-have beauty books

5 TED Talks that will change the way you view women

Potent Messages: Empowering essays all women should read

5 Effective methods to banish a headache the natural way