Incorporating growth strategy and strategic planning into your business requires continuous learning. When you have a busy schedule, however, it can be difficult to find the time to read business books. My advice is to find the time, because business books are an invaluable resource for learning, inspiration,
and business growth for
any entrepreneur or small-business owner. Business books can provide the tools and insights you need to navigate the business world more effectively and successfully.
Here are eight tips to make it easier:
1. Avoid reading the entire book. Most business books are packed with examples to illustrate core concepts. Once you grasp the concept, move on! Skip to the next chapter or put the book down when you've learned enough.
2. Consider listening instead. A lot of people, including one of my clients, listen to audiobooks during their commute, while others listen while they exercise or run errands. Business books usually repeat the same information, making them perfect for multitasking.
3. Identify areas that need improvement. Instead of reading the latest bestseller, choose a book that will help you with your current challenges or opportunities. If you're struggling to understand your competition or consumer behavior, look for books that provide insights into what compels customers to choose your company. Highlight what can help you and put it into practice within the next week.
4. Create a list of recommendations. Jot down the books your friends recommend or those that pique your interest when you see them in the airport. You can save a qualified list of books to pick from at the right time.
5. Schedule reading time. Set aside a specific time to read and block out half an hour on your calendar. If it works for you, make it a recurring meeting.
6. Visit your local library. Instead of buying business books, head to
your local library and browse their collection. Since they're all cataloged together, it's easy to find a variety of books on your chosen topic. Pick up a few books to take home and then choose the one that interests you the most. You may also find a book club to join at your local library, where you can discuss books with like-minded individuals. This will not only help you stay motivated and accountable for your reading, but it will also provide an opportunity to exchange ideas and perspectives with others.
7. Take notes and review them regularly. When reading a business book, take notes on the key concepts, ideas, and strategies presented in the book. Review these notes regularly to help reinforce the concepts and keep them fresh in your mind.
8. Read widely. While it's important to focus on the areas where you need the most help or improvement, it's also important to read widely and expose yourself to a variety of perspectives and ideas. Don't limit yourself to a single genre or topic. Explore different areas of business, leadership, and management to broaden your knowledge and understanding. This will better equip you with insights that can help shape a distinct value proposition for your customers and clients.
Keeping up with the latest growth strategy and strategic planning trends can be challenging, but implementing these eight tips can help make it easier. If you've read a great business book recently, let me know! I'm always looking for new additions to my reading list.
Do you want to learn how to increase revenues, expand profitability, improve quality, invest wisely, and develop personally? Let's connect! Book a complimentary meeting with me today and be well on your way to growing your business this year!