Books to help you develop your publishing career
Whether you’re just starting out in publishing or you’re a seasoned professional looking to sharpen your skills, the right book at the right time can help you navigate the unique challenges of this industry.
From mastering public speaking to developing a personal brand, tackling imposter syndrome to balancing work with life, these are my top book recommendations for professional and personal growth in publishing.
These books have shaped my career, and I believe they can do the same for others looking to build a career in the publishing industry.
How to Own the Room by Viv Groskop
If you’ve ever wanted to build confidence in public speaking, Viv Groskop’s How to Own the Room is the book to start with. Packed with practical advice—from mastering your breathing to tips on body language—it’s a comprehensive guide to commanding attention in any room.
Pair this book with Groskop’s companion podcast, which features insights from inspiring public figures, and you’ll feel equipped to face your next big presentation or meeting.
#StandOutOnline: How to Build a Profitable and Influential Personal Brand in the Digital Age by Natasha Courtenay-Smith
While slightly dated in some areas, #StandOutOnline remains a valuable resource for anyone navigating digital promotion. This book covers foundational strategies like SEO, boosting domain authority, and the importance of creating a cohesive personal brand. Whether you’re marketing your own work or supporting authors and publishers, it’s a practical guide to making an impact in the digital world.
Flex: The Modern Woman’s Handbook by Annie Auerbach
Flex is a refreshing take on work-life balance, especially for women. It challenges the traditional 9-to-5 grind—an ever-ongoing conversation in publishing—and encourages you to design a work style that aligns with your natural rhythms. This book helped me reassess everything from my working hours to my long-term career goals.
Brave Not Perfect: Fear Less, Fail More, and Live Bolder by Reshma Saujani
If imposter syndrome has ever held you back, Reshma Saujani’s Brave Not Perfect is a must-read. It offers relatable stories and actionable advice on how to stop fearing failure and start taking bold steps in your career. The book is especially empowering for women, but has universal lessons that anyone can apply.
The Discomfort Zone by Farrah Storr
Farrah Storr is a renowned editor and her book The Discomfort Zone discusses the benefits of stepping out of your comfort zone and focusing on life’s challenges. If you’ve ever hesitated to leave a job or make a bold decision out of fear, this book will help you see the value of taking risks. Storr’s insights are especially relevant in publishing, where change can feel daunting but often leads to growth (and more money!).
How to Not Always Be Working by Marlee Grace
I definitely need to re-read this book, but How to Not Always Be Working was a game-changer for me when I read it during the pandemic. It offers practical advice on setting boundaries, having honest conversations about productivity, and recognising the value of rest. For anyone who struggles to switch off in a high-pressure industry like publishing, this book is a gentle reminder that rest fuels creativity.
It Doesn’t Have to Be Crazy at Work by Jason Fried
Publishing can be chaotic, and sometimes it feels like the inbox never empties no matter how hard you try. It Doesn’t Have to Be Crazy at Work is a manifesto against the hustle culture and toxic “family” initiatives in the office. It teaches you how to prioritise your time and reduce unnecessary stress—essential lessons for thriving in this very demanding, always-on industry.
The Multi-Hyphen Method by Emma Gannon
If you’re juggling side hustles or considering a career outside the traditional 9-to-5, Emma Gannon’s The Multi-Hyphen Method is the guide you need. Gannon breaks down how to create a sustainable balance between your passions, day job, and financial goals. It’s especially relevant for publishing professionals who often work on personal creative projects alongside their careers to fund their lifestyles (there’s no money in publishing) or to fulfil their creative needs outside of work.
Whatever you’re struggling with at work, be it over-creativity, imposter syndrome or a fear of speaking up, these are the books I recommend to help you develop your publishing career.
For more resources to help with your publishing career, visit my Publishing Hopeful’s Toolkit.