One of the best parts of flying is that it gives me an opportunity to catch up on the big stack of books that I have.  This past week while traveling to SXSW I was able to read a few great books.  I’d definitely recommend any one of these books and hope you enjoy!

LinkedWorking, by Frank Agin and Lewis Howes

This is a small book so it doesn’t take long to read through yet it packs a punch for those wondering how to fully utilize LinkedIn.  Besides describing how to use LinkedIn properly, the book provides basic business networking tips in every chapter.  After showing you how you can improve your networking skills, the authors then apply these skills to LinkedIn.  Throughout the book co-author Lewis Howes describes how he used LinkedIn to grow his professional network, land speaking gigs, develop successful niche groups, audition for reality tv shows, and a host of other accomplishments.

The Power of Less: The Fine Art of Limiting Yourself to the Essential…in Business and in Life, by Leo Babauta

This was one of those books that the second you start reading it you know it’s going to change the way you think. I really loved this book and it helps to reinforce the need to always be analyzing what is essential in our lives. Once you determine what is essential, both personally and professionally, Leo then helps you to figure out what to do with everything else.  Leo explains the importance of only working on a single task at a time instead of the multi-tasking that many of us are used to.  Leo shows you how to break up big projects or goals into smaller, attainable tasks to keep you motivated, productive and focused.  If you were only going to buy one book from this list, you should buy 2 of these and give one to a friend, family member or co-worker.  This book is going into that special pile that I re-read from time-to-time.  If you haven’t been reading Leo elsewhere, he blogs over at Zen Habits.

Tribes: We Need You to Lead Us, by Seth Godin

Yes, I know, I’m one of the only marketers around to not have read this book the second it came out.  As a fan of Seth Godin, I am ashamed it took me so long to finally read it.  However, as usual, the book doesn’t disappoint.  Seth discusses the concept of tribes which are connected to one another through a common interest, idea or leader.  Through providing case stories similar to what Gary Vaynerchuk has done with Wine Library TV by bringing together and leading a group of wine enthusiasts,  Seth shows how beneficial and necessary it is to develop tribes.  As is Seth’s style, the book is thin and doesn’t take long to read but packs a punch.