Books That Helped Me Become A Stronger Communicator

I’ve always been comfortable with public speaking and just chatting with people in general. However, as I got older, I began to wonder if it was a skill I have or if it was something that anyone could acquire and achieve.

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I am sharing some of the most impactful books that I have read throughout my years that allowed me to benefit at my university and even in my professional career as a realtor.

And yes, I know that not everyone is born with the ability to talk and connect with other people easily. However, I believe that people can always achieve this simply by practicing. because, as the adage goes, “practice makes perfect.” The false belief that one has communicated is the biggest barrier to effective communication.

Another thing about getting better at communicating is the fact that it can be hard to get people to listen because they have other things to do with their time and attention, you have to use a lot of different methods, and the information you have to share is sometimes emotional or controversial.

1. Unleash the Power of Storytelling: Win Hearts, Change Minds, Get Results

By Rob Biesenbach

Book description: “The market is flooded with a dizzying array of books, experts, and resources on business storytelling. This book cuts through the hype to clarify and demystify the storytelling process. “Unleash the Power of Storytelling” offers step-by-step instructions for finding, shaping, and telling powerful stories. You’ll learn about the essential ingredients that go into any good story and how to avoid common storytelling pitfalls.”

2. Five Stars: The Communication Secrets to Get from Good to Great

By Carmine Gallo

Book description: “Ideas don’t sell themselves. As the forces of globalization, automation, and artificial intelligence combine to disrupt every field, having a good idea isn’t good enough. Mastering the ancient art of persuasion is the key to standing out, getting ahead, and achieving greatness in the modern world. Communication is no longer a ‘soft’ skill―it is the human edge that will make you unstoppable, irresistible, and irreplaceable―earning you that perfect rating, that fifth star.”

3. Just Listen: Discover The Secret to Getting Through to Absolutely Anyone

By Mark Goulston

Book description: “Getting through to someone is a fine art, indeed, but a critical one nonetheless. Whether you are dealing with a harried colleague, a stressed-out client, or an insecure spouse, things will go from bad to worse if you can’t break through emotional barricades and get your message thoroughly communicated and registered. Drawing on his experience as a psychiatrist, business consultant, and coach, author Mark Goulston shares simple but powerful techniques readers can use to break through the stubborn and hardened outer layers of coworkers, friends, strangers, or even enemies.”

4. We Need to Talk: How to Have Conversations That Matter

By Celeste Headlee

Book description: “Today most of us communicate from behind electronic screens, and studies show that Americans feel less connected and more divided than ever before. The blame for some of this disconnect can be attributed to our political landscape, but the erosion of our conversational skills as a society lies with us as individuals.

5. Power Questions: Build Relationships, Win New Business, and Influence Others

By Andrew Sobel and Jerold Panas

Book description: “Skillfully redefine problems. Make an immediate connection with anyone. Rapidly determine if a client is ready to buy. Access the deepest dreams of others. ‘Power Questions’ sets out a series of strategic questions that will help you win new business and dramatically deepen your professional and personal relationships. The book showcases thirty-five riveting, real conversations with CEOs, billionaires, clients, colleagues, and friends. Each story illustrates the extraordinary power and impact of a thought-provoking, incisive power question.”