Best Workplace Culture Books for Leaders in 2026
- No Rules Rules – Reed Hastings
- The Advantage – Patrick Lencioni
- Nine Lies About Work – Marcus Buckingham
- Powerful – Patty McCord
- Workquake – Steve Cadigan
And while not strictly about workplace culture, this is one our team has been loving.
- Unreasonable Hospitality – Will Guidara
While the classics still shape today’s leadership thinking, several newer books have expanded how leaders approach culture, talent, and organizational design. Here are a few recent workplace culture books leaders are discussing today.
We believe Culture is a mountain that’s worth climbing.
The competitive advantage of the future is Culture, plain and simple.
These are all excellent book recommendations on workplace culture. We know they are because we consider ourselves to be experts on building workplace cultures that support your business growth goals.
We invite you to learn more about our own book on workplace culture and leader’s guide to a healthy workplace, The Culture Climb, by our Chief Vision Officer and Founder, Jaime Taets and VP of Client Growth, Chelsey Paulson.
The List – Best Workplace Culture Books
Leaders looking to improve workplace culture often turn to the best leadership and organizational culture books for guidance. From classics like Leaders Eat Last to newer perspectives on leadership development, these recommendations from executives, founders, and HR leaders highlight some of the most influential books on workplace culture and leadership.
- How Leaders Can Strengthen by Tim Burningham
- Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek
- Think Again by Adam Grant
- Work Rules! by Laszlo Bock
- The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle
- Delivering Happiness by Tony Hsieh
- Radical Candor by Kim Scott
- The Cultural Dimension of Global Business by Gary P. Ferraro & Elizabeth K. Briody
- Elevate by Robert Glazer
- The Culture Question by Randy Grieser et. al
- The Culture Blueprint by Robert Richman
- The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni
- Joy Inc. by Richard Sheridan
- Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
- The Best Place to Work by Ron Friedman
- Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman
- The Challenge Culture by Nigel Travis
- Everyone Culture by Robert Kegan & Lisa Lahey
How Leaders Can Strengthen Their Organization’s Culture: 28 Simple and Effective Ways by Tim Burningham
“If you believe that the most straightforward solutions are also the most effective, this book will resonate with you right away. If you don’t, it will convince you otherwise. Giving an organization’s culture the importance it deserves, Tim Burningham not only leaves us with lessons on how to take steps that enhance culture at the workplace but also shares with us plenty of essential tips on how to weed out the negatives that adversely impact it. To the point and loaded with objectives and facts that give way to reasonable opinions, I always have reason to find a place for this title on my desk.” – Riley Beam, Managing Attorney, Douglas R. Beam, P.A.
Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek
“My favorite book on workplace culture is Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek. This book explains why some teams thrive and others don’t and focuses on the concept of “groupthink,” describing how leaders need to prioritize their team’s well-being above their own. It also explains how leaders should be willing to sacrifice their own time and resources for the benefit of their team. It demonstrates how a workplace culture can be created where everyone feels safe and supported so that they can give their best work.
I particularly enjoyed the way Sinek uses research-backed data to back up his claims, making it easy to understand the concepts and apply them in real-life situations. Overall, I highly recommend this book as a must-read for anyone looking to improve their team’s workplace culture.” – Ann Young, CEO, Fix The Photo
Think Again by Adam Grant
“In Think Again, Adam Grant offers inspiring insights on fostering a workplace culture of mental flexibility. Grant writes that organizations should stay ahead of their competition and remain knowledgeable in an ever-changing business landscape. Motivated by the idea that knowing what we don’t know is wisdom, he argues for the importance of curiosity and openness to change.
The book describes plenty of real-life examples from companies that have adopted this approach; the book encourages readers–particularly those leading within organizations–to think differently and challenge entrenched processes when necessary.” – Michael Sena, Founder and CEO, SENACEA
Work Rules! by Laszlo Bock
“My favorite book on workplace culture has to be Work Rules! (Insights from Inside Google That Will Transform How You Live and Lead) by Laszlo Bock. This book provides an amazing look at how Google operates its business and how their culture has made them one of the most successful companies in the world. It’s a perfect example of how workplace culture is the key to success in any organization.
Laszlo Bock provides readers with great insights on how to create an effective workplace culture and how to motivate employees to stay engaged. He also explains why it’s important to create an environment where employees can feel safe, respected, and valued. By following the principles outlined in this book, employers can create a workplace that encourages productivity, collaboration, and innovation.
Overall, Work Rules! is an eye-opening look into the workplace culture of Google and a must-read for any employer who wants to create an effective and productive workplace environment.” – Shaun Connell, Founder, Writing Tips Institute
The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle
“According to a study by Harvard, having a “strong office culture increases net income 756% over 11 years.” This is a good reason to start thinking about your office culture and where it currently sits. When we talk about office culture, we are referring to a set of “living rules” that everyone abides by. They are, in a sense, a code of conduct. This allows employees to share vulnerability, feel accepted, and establish a purpose.
The Culture Code doesn’t just teach you about how to create a strong and healthy office culture, but it also draws on real-life examples of how culture has affected companies in multiple industries. Coyle tells you what you are doing wrong, why, and how to fix it. Each chapter has been followed by an “Ideas for Action” section, which gives actionable advice on how to make positive changes. Chapter 15 on “How to Lead for Proficiency” is particularly interesting, as it teaches how to support your team’s individual strengths and nurture your office culture.” – Louisa Smith, Owner, Epic Book Society
Delivering Happiness by Tony Hsieh
“One of the well-regarded books on workplace culture is Delivering Happiness: A Path to Profits, Passion, and Purpose by Tony Hsieh, the former CEO of Zappos. The book details the company’s unique approach to company culture and how it has helped drive success, and provides actionable insights for other organizations looking to create a strong and positive workplace culture.” – Andre Oentoro, CEO and Founder, Breadnbeyond
Radical Candor by Kim Scott
“My favorite book on this topic has to be Radical Candor by Kim Scott. This book is incredible not only for what I would deem to be an objectively straightforward framework for leadership and broader cultural development in the workplace, but it also has some very important culture-specific lessons that employees at any level in an organization can learn from.” – Wendy Makinson, HR Manager, Joloda Hydraroll
The Cultural Dimension of Global Business by Gary P. Ferraro & Elizabeth K. Briody
“As an anthropologist, I highly recommend The Cultural Dimension of Global Business as my favorite book on workplace culture. This book provides a comprehensive understanding of the impact of culture on global business and how businesses can navigate cultural differences in the workplace.
The authors, who are highly experienced in the field, use their expertise to demonstrate how the insights of cultural anthropology can positively influence the conduct of global business. Whether you’re a business, management, or anthropology student, this book provides a wealth of knowledge on navigating and effectively understanding workplace culture in a global context.” – Matt Artz, Business Anthropologist, Matt Artz
Elevate by Robert Glazer
“Elevate by Robert Glazer has to be my favorite book on workplace culture. Whenever I need a creative boost or to re-evaluate my team’s culture, I always turn to Elevate for inspiration. Glazer does a great job of helping the reader understand why certain aspects of our work environment are crucial in bettering ourselves and our teams. He also paints an optimistic but realistic view of how technology can help propel us forward while still keeping our humanity intact and properly valued. By bringing together the best elements of human behavior, Elevate is truly a must-read if you’re looking to build sustainable environments that foster creativity and productivity.” – Ludovic Chung-Sao, Lead Engineer and Founder, Zen Soundproof
The Culture Question by Randy Grieser et. al
“The Culture Question: How to Create a Workplace Where People Like to Work” by Randy Grieser, Eric Stutzman, Wendy Loewen, and Michael Labun brings together four authors, plus firsthand feedback from 2400 leaders, employees, and other resources, to help you find the answers to the two fundamental pieces of the workplace puzzle: how an organization’s culture impacts the workforce’s outlook toward their work and how we can improve it.
Introducing us to six elements that contribute to creating a healthy workplace culture, the book reveals a great mix of purposeful leadership insights and practical workplace solutions that enable leaders to create a happy, engaging, and inspiring workplace.” – Neil Platt, Director, Emerald Home Improvement
The Culture Blueprint by Robert Richman
“The Culture Blueprint by Robert Richman is a book about fostering committed, enthusiastic employees. It is packed with excellent ideas that can be put into action immediately. Richman is a world-renowned culture strategist and co-founder of Zappio Insights, and his culture-building techniques are innovative and effective. He has been hired to teach culture at companies such as Google, Toyota, and Eli Lilly.
In The Culture Blueprint, the author guides readers on how to attract the right employees, keep them satisfied, and unlock their maximum potential. Readers learn what steps to take to develop a positive work culture of passionate, motivated employees who achieve greatness. People who see their work as meaningful and rewarding make the work world go round, and the more companies understand this, the better. The book is a treasure chest of valuable insights and tactical advice. Written in a reader-friendly manner, informative, and full of practical tips, it is a true must-read!” – Agata Szczepanek, Community Manager, LiveCareer
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni
“The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni is the best book I have found for building successful teams. Lencioni uses a fictional account of a new CEO and her struggle to bring her team together. This easy-to-read book provides five steps for building a high-functioning team, with each step building upon the other. Trust is the foundation to reach the pinnacle at the top of the pyramid, which is results. This book works great as a team book club read and discussion. There are online assessments and even training plans to go along with the book.” – Mary Kay Bitton, Head of Product Innovation, FLO Vitamins
Joy Inc. by Richard Sheridan
“Joy, Inc.: How We Built a Workplace People Love by Richard Sheridan. Recreating the magic that transformed the way leaders and employees defined workplace culture, this book tells us the story of Menlo Innovations. Of course, hearing it from Richard Sheridan, the person driving this award-winning company culture, also gives you a firsthand peek into what this headline-grabbing story is all about.
The formula is rather simple-pursuing joy as the “explicit goal.” But then the author and innovative CEO gets down to telling you the story, and you know just how much work goes into it. Thankfully, the book leaves you with plenty of lessons to create a joyful workplace. The brilliance of this one is its simplicity and “audacious” nature that leaves you inspired.” – Brendan McGreevy, Head of Strategy, Affinda
Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
“Dare to Lead: Brave Work, Tough Conversations, Whole Hearts (Full title) This book eloquently preaches on the best ways to cultivate braver, more daring leaders. The author, Brené Brown, elaborates on how these leaders are essential pillars of workplace culture, as they help embed the values of courage, camaraderie, and commitment. Dare to Lead is a fantastic read on the principles that help build thriving workplace cultures and is my favorite book of its kind.” – Dakota McDaniels, Chief Product Officer, Pluto
The Best Place to Work by Ron Friedman
“The Best Place to Work: The Art and Science of Creating an Extraordinary Workplace by Ron Friedman is a superb book on workplace culture. Friedman carefully balances a wealth of scientific facts with real-life anecdotes and situations to create a vivid picture of his approach to workplace culture. Key emphasis is placed on creating the right conditions for employees to perform optimally and not simply spending the most money on frivolous perks and incentives.” – Alexandre Robicquet, Co-founder and CEO, Crossing Minds
Emotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman
“Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ by Daniel Goleman is my favorite. It addresses how to improve workplace interactions by understanding your own emotions and how to respond to them as well as those of your coworkers, bosses, subordinates, you name it. EI even applies to everyday life and dynamics with family, friends, and even strangers you encounter while running errands (like that pesky person who stole your parking space, for example). Well worth the read!” – Colleen Sproull, Content Marketing Manager, Evinex
The Challenge Culture by Nigel Travis
“The Challenge Culture: Why the Most Successful Organizations Run on Pushback by Nigel Travis is a fascinating read. The executive chairman and former CEO of Dunkin’ Donuts shares the approach that he has cultivated over decades of leadership. This approach believes in positive pushback. Travis thinks it is important to question everything as long as you do not disrespect anyone. A workplace culture that encourages pushback and embraces challenges is a culture that produces innovative ideas that will lead to success.” – Andrew Meyer, CEO, Arbor
Everyone Culture by Robert Kegan & Lisa Lahey
“Everyone Culture is a book about building high-performing organizations by focusing on developing all employees’ leadership capacity. The authors argue that traditional leadership models, where only a select few individuals are identified as leaders, are limiting and ineffective. They propose a new approach to leadership that emphasizes developing the leadership potential of all employees. Which they refer to as an “everyone culture.”
The authors explain that by building an everyone culture, companies can foster a culture of growth and continuous improvement, improve employee engagement, and increase productivity. The book provides practical strategies for developing an everyone culture. Like creating a culture of feedback, encouraging employee autonomy, and empowering employees to take ownership of their work. It is a must-read for anyone looking to build high-performing organizations and develop the leadership potential of all employees.” – Jim Mayer, President, TCO Strategies
Leadership Lessons from the Best Workplace Culture Books
Common themes across these books include:
Psychological safety – Books like Leaders Eat Last and The Culture Code emphasize creating environments where employees feel safe contributing ideas.
Radical transparency – Radical Candor highlights how honest communication builds stronger teams.
Leadership development for everyone – Everyone Culture argues that organizations grow when every employee develops leadership capabilities.
Emotional intelligence – Books like Emotional Intelligence reinforce that self-awareness and empathy are foundational to culture.
