Have you started your summer reading? Hundreds of books specialize in the realm of associations and nonprofits, but we have a few favorites. Covering everything from the best ways to use social media to the roles of board members, here is a list of five must-read books for organization leaders:

“The Networked Nonprofit” by Beth Kanter, Allison Fine, and Randi Zuckerberg
In “The Networked Nonprofit,” authors Kanter, Fine, and Zuckerberg provide some excellent tips on how your organization can use social media. It’s a valuable tool to drive your mission and connect with others in new and exciting ways.

“The Little Book of Boards: A Board Member’s Handbook for Small (and Very Small) Nonprofits” by Erik Hanberg
This little handbook is a big guide for everything you need to know about board members. From their responsibilities, relationships, and how best they can support and communicate with your nonprofit. Whether you’re on a board or organizing a board, this is a great deconstruction of what it means to be on the other side.

“The Progress Principle: Using Small Wins to Ignite Joy, Engagement, and Creativity at Work” by Teresa Amabile and Steven Kramer
Need to spark some creativity, drive, and innovation in your team’s daily routine? “The Progress Principle” uses real feedback from over 200 employees to explore how leaders can foster joyful progress and motivation at work.

“Difficult Conversations” by Douglas Stone, Bruce Patton, and Sheila Heen
Maybe you’re faced with a heated confrontation, or you’re wondering how to provide helpful constructive criticism to your team. This book provides ways to navigate difficult discussions and walk away feeling productive and balanced.

“Forces for Good: The Six Practices of High-Impact Nonprofits” by Leslie R. Crutchfield and Heather McLeod Grant
“Forces for Good” provides examples of nonprofits who have gone above and beyond — and what their secrets to success are. Crutchfield and Grant studied 12 nonprofits and their practices in this eye-opening book.
Do you have some favorite books for organization leaders? Read something that has helped your organization rise to the top, or provided some much needed insight and motivation? Let us know!
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