The Must Read Books for all Product Managers: A Journey to Excellence

As a Product Manager, you’re tasked with the monumental responsibility of orchestrating a cross-functional symphony of technology, design, sales, marketing, and operations. Your role demands an intricate understanding of diverse domains, the ability to empathize with your team members, and a constant thirst for knowledge. Reading, undoubtedly, is one of the best ways to cultivate these skills and perspectives. In this blog, we’ve curated a list of must-read books that will not only guide you but also inspire you on your journey as a Product Manager.

Basic Essentials (for Getting Started)

1. Inspired by Marty Cagan

Marty Cagan’s “Inspired” is an absolute cornerstone for aspiring Product Managers. It explores the intricacies of creating innovative, user-centered products and emphasizes the importance of product leadership within an organization.

2. Getting Real by 37 Signals

For a pragmatic approach to product development, look no further than Getting Real by 37 Signals. It advocates for simplicity, agility, and effective team collaboration—a must-read for anyone looking to build great products efficiently.

3. [For Interviews] Decode and Conquer by Lewis C Lin

Preparing for PM interviews? Lin’s book is your secret weapon, offering a wealth of insights, strategies, and example interview questions to help you navigate the challenging PM interview process.

4. [For Interviews] Cracking the PM Interview by Gayle McDowell and Jackie Bavaro

Another invaluable resource for interview preparation, this book provides comprehensive guidance on mastering PM interviews, complete with real interview questions and solutions.

Product and Experience Design

5. The Design of Everyday Things by Don Norman

Don Norman’s classic delves into the principles of user-centered design, shedding light on how good design can make products more intuitive and enjoyable to use.

6. Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products by Nir Eyal

Nir Eyal’s exploration of habit-forming products is a goldmine for PMs aiming to create user engagement that lasts. Learn how to craft products that people can’t resist.

7. Don’t Make Me Think by Steve Krug

Usability is paramount, and Steve Krug’s book teaches you how to design interfaces and websites that are intuitive and user-friendly—essential for a PM involved in digital products.

8. Change by Design by Tim Brown

Tim Brown’s insights into design thinking are instrumental in shaping a product manager’s approach to innovation and problem-solving. Discover how design can drive positive change.

Rapid Experimentation, Growth, and Customer Development

9. Sprint: How To Solve Big Problems and Test New Ideas in Just Five Days by Jake Knapp

Incorporating the principles of Google Ventures’ design sprint, Jake Knapp provides a blueprint for rapid ideation and testing, an indispensable skill for modern PMs.

10. The Lean Startup by Eric Ries

Eric Ries’ book revolutionized how startups and enterprises approach product development. Dive into lean methodologies, MVPs, and validated learning to build successful products efficiently.

11. The Four Steps to Epiphany by Steve Blank

Steve Blank lays the foundation for customer development—an essential practice for Product Managers aiming to create products that truly resonate with their audience.

12. Zero to One by Peter Thiel

Peter Thiel’s book challenges conventional thinking and encourages innovation. It’s a treasure trove of entrepreneurial wisdom and a valuable read for PMs navigating disruptive landscapes.

Data-Driven Product Management

13. Naked Statistics by Charles Wheelan

A grasp of statistics is pivotal in making informed product decisions. Charles Wheelan’s book makes this often-daunting subject accessible and enjoyable.

14. Lean Analytics by Alistair Croll

Learn how to measure, analyze, and iterate your way to success with Alistair Croll’s guide to lean analytics. It’s a roadmap for data-driven decision-making in product management.

Product Leadership

15. Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini

Understanding the psychology of influence is crucial for product managers. Robert Cialdini’s book provides insights into persuasion that can enhance your product’s appeal.

16. Deep Work by Carl Newport

Carl Newport’s book offers practical advice on achieving deep focus and productivity, essential for juggling the multiple demands of product management.

17. The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz

Drawing from his own experiences, Ben Horowitz’s book delves into the challenges and tough decisions faced by leaders in the tech industry, providing invaluable lessons for product managers.

18. The Innovator’s Dilemma by Clayton Christensen

Clayton Christensen’s seminal work explores why great companies often fail when faced with disruptive innovation. Understanding this dilemma is essential for PMs navigating evolving markets.

19. Measure What Matters by John Doerr

John Doerr’s OKR (Objectives and Key Results) framework has been a driving force behind the success of companies like Google. This book details how OKRs can propel your product and team forward.

20. The Effective Executive by Peter Drucker

In this timeless classic, Peter Drucker outlines principles for effective leadership and management, offering insights that can help you excel in your role as a product manager.

Incorporating these books into your reading list can elevate your skills, broaden your perspectives, and ultimately make you a more effective and innovative Product Manager. Remember, the journey of learning is continuous, and the wisdom gained from these texts can serve as a guiding light on your path to excellence in the world of product management. Happy reading!