My Top Five Career Book Recommendations

I love a top five book list! I have been working in the co-op and career space for about seven years and have discovered some great books that I frequently recommend and/or gift to my colleagues and students. Here are my top five career books (in no particular order). I’d love to hear what books you found impactful at different times in your career.??

1. “The Squiggly Career” by Helen Tupper and Sarah Ellis challenges the traditional linear career path. It introduces the concept of a squiggly career, emphasizing flexibility, creativity, and fulfillment. The book covers topics like networking, sideways moves, saying no, and reflection. Whether you’re starting your career or making a shift, “The Squiggly Career” provides actionable advice for a fulfilling professional journey.?I love the tone and positivity infused in this book. Each chapter has further resources if you’re looking to delve deeper into a topic. I listened to this book and immediately purchased a hard copy so that I could add sticky notes and reference the further resources section. The authors also have a fun “Squiggly Careers” podcast.? ?

• Audience: early to mid-career explorers who are following a non-traditional career path or building a “career portfolio”?

• Goodreads rating: 3.95?

• Amazon rating: 4.4?

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2. “Designing Your Life” by Bill Burnett and Dave Evans provides a practical framework for readers to design a life that aligns with their values, passions, and aspirations. The book encourages the use of a design-thinking approach to personal development. It invites readers to approach life as a design project, where creativity, experimentation, and intentional choices lead to a well-lived, joyful existence. Bill Burnett also has a great TedTalk on “5 Steps to Designing the Life You Want”?

• Audience: early to late career and life change makers?

• Goodreads rating: 3.92?

• Amazon rating: 4.5?

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3. “What Color Is Your Parachute?” by Richard N. Bolles is a cornerstone guide that has shaped the way people approach job hunting. First published in 1970, this book has been updated annually to reflect the evolving job market. It offers practical advice on networking, resume writing, interviewing, salary negotiation,?and job hunting. This is more of a tactical how to guide with a lot of great job seeking statistics.? ?

• Audience: active job seekers?

• Goodreads rating: 3.71?

• Amazon rating: 4.6?

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4. “The Unspoken Rules: Secrets to Starting Your Career Off Right” by Gorick Ng is an essential guide for anyone entering the workforce. The author draws from over five hundred interviews with professionals across various industries, demystifies the often-overlooked, unwritten rules?like how to navigate workplace dynamics, manage expectations, and build strong professional relationships. Whether you’re starting a new job or looking to advance in your current role, “The Unspoken Rules” provides the frameworks, checklists, and strategies you need to stand out and succeed. I wish I had read this book before my first full time professional job!?

• Audience: people starting their first professional role?

• Goodreads rating: 4.28?

• Amazon rating: 4.7?

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5. “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie is a timeless self-help classic that has empowered millions since its first publication in 1936. This influential book provides practical advice on improving interpersonal skills, building lasting relationships, and achieving success both personally and professionally. Carnegie’s principles, such as showing genuine interest in others, avoiding criticism, and offering sincere appreciation, are designed to help readers navigate social interactions with confidence and empathy. I have read this book twice and tend to recommend this book a ton to my students!?

• Audience: early to late professionals looking to strengthen their network?

• Goodreads rating: 4.22?

• Amazon rating: 4.7?

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I love sharing books, checking out people’s bookshelves, and adding books to my “to be read” list. If you have any career book recommendations, please comment below. If you’re on GoodReads, let’s be friends.?

Happy reading (or listening)!??

Darelle