Best books for developing leadership and likeability at the same time

Time of India

5 days ago

We often talk about leadership as if it means taking charge, being bold, or getting results. And we talk about being likeable as if it's about being friendly or easy to get along with.
But the truth is, some of the best leaders in the world aren't just respected, they're also deeply liked. They inspire people not just to follow orders but to believe in a shared vision.
Balancing leadership with likeability isn't impossible. In fact, they're more connected than most people think. A strong leader doesn't have to be feared to be effective. And someone who's kind and likeable doesn't have to be overlooked.
If you want to grow into someone others want to follow and work with, these books can help you develop both qualities side by side.
Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek
Simon Sinek has a way of making complex leadership ideas feel simple, and this book is a perfect example of that. 'Leaders Eat Last' focuses on one powerful idea: good leaders put their people first. He talks about how organizations that take care of their people, from the top down, create teams that are more loyal, productive, and motivated.
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Sinek takes lessons from biology, military leadership, and corporate culture to show that trust is built when leaders serve their teams, not the other way around. It's not about being the loudest person in the room. It's about being the one who listens when it matters and takes responsibility when things go wrong.
Why it builds likeability: Because people naturally want to work with those who have their back. Caring leadership stands out and it sticks.
The Charisma Myth by Olivia Fox Cabane
Some people seem effortlessly charismatic. They light up a room, command attention, and connect easily. Olivia Fox Cabane's book says this isn't something you're either born with or without. Charisma is a skill, and one you can learn.
She breaks it down into three key traits: Presence, power, and warmth. Through practical exercises and real-life examples, she teaches how to show up with more confidence, speak so others really listen, and build deeper connections all without faking anything.
Why this matters for leaders: Because leadership isn't just about direction. It's about influence. And if you can learn to influence in a warm, respectful way, people will follow you not just because they have to but because they want to.
Dare to Lead by Brené Brown
If you've ever heard Brené Brown speak, you know she's passionate about vulnerability, courage, and authenticity. In 'Dare to Lead,' she takes her ideas from TED talks and research into the world of leadership.
This book focuses on building trust, having hard conversations, and leading in a way that's grounded in empathy. Brown doesn't sugarcoat the realities of leadership, but she also doesn't believe it needs to be cold or distant. In fact, she argues that vulnerability, the willingness to show up when you don't have all the answers, is the heart of courageous leadership.
Why this builds likeability: Because people connect with people, not titles.
The leaders we remember most are the ones who were honest, real, and kind, even when it wasn't easy.
How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
This book is old, but don't let that fool you; it still works. Dale Carnegie's advice has helped generations of people learn how to connect, communicate, and influence without being pushy or fake.
At its core, the book is about listening more, appreciating others sincerely, and putting yourself in someone else's shoes.
It teaches you to make people feel valued and respected, whether you're trying to lead a team or just build better relationships in general.
Why this helps leaders: Because being in charge isn't enough. You have to build trust, and trust starts with how you treat people. The small things like remembering someone's name or acknowledging their effort go a long way.
Multipliers by Liz Wiseman
What kind of leader are you? According to Liz Wiseman, you're either a 'Multiplier' or a 'Diminisher.'
Multipliers bring out the best in others. Diminishers, even unintentionally, hold people back.
Wiseman's research shows that leaders who believe others are smart and capable tend to create high-performing teams. Instead of micromanaging, Multipliers ask questions, give people room to grow, and recognize talent. They stretch people in a good way.
Why this improves likeability and leadership at the same time: Because we remember the leaders who believed in us.
Being a Multiplier doesn't mean lowering the bar. It means lifting others while you raise the standard.
What all these books have in common?
These books aren't just about how to be more powerful. They're about how to be human while you lead. They teach you that you don't need to yell to be heard. You don't need to fake charm to be liked. And you don't need to go it alone to prove your strength.
The strongest leaders are often the most empathetic. They admit when they're wrong. They listen. They know when to push and when to pause. And people follow them not just for what they do but for who they are.
Whether you're leading a company, a classroom, or just trying to be better in everyday interactions, these books can guide you. Not just in becoming a better boss but in becoming a better person, others naturally want to follow.