Apparently, July 3rd was the International Day of Cooperatives according to the UN (who knew?) and I thought it would be interesting to search for great books on cooperation and teamwork (vs. the cooperative movement which is what the UN is promoting).
As I searched for the best books on cooperation I was somewhat surprised to find that the top results were consistently books for children, which is great of course, but why no books for adults? Have we really learned all about cooperation and teamwork by the time we were 10?
Times change and we are exposed to a lot more information, in a different way, than ever before. And in some ways, we may not be able to absorb and process this information well* which limits our understanding.
Cooperation seems to be one way to deal with an overwhelming world, in our personal and professional lives, hence this blog post.
Here, then, are the top 6 (plus 1) books on Cooperation and Teamwork according to the wisdom of crowds and in no particular order:
Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together And Others Don't
by Simon Sinek
Sinek displays how the best organizations foster trust and cooperation because their leaders build what he calls a "Circle of Safety" that separates the security inside the team from the challenges outside.
Mastering Collaboration by Gretchen Anderson
In this practical book, Gretchen Anderson shows how to generate ideas with others while gaining buy-in from all levels of an organization.
Mothers and Others by Sarah Blaffer Hrdy
This might be an odd one for this list but here me out. Hrdy argues that somewhere in Africa, more than a million years ago, a line of apes began to rear their young differently than their Great Ape ancestors. From this new form of care came new ways of engaging and understanding each other. Her conclusion, that humans are natural coalition builders, is an absolutely relevant trait in the modern workplace.
The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick M. Lencioni
Lencioni reveals the five dysfunctions which go to the very heart of why teams, even the best ones, often struggle. He outlines a powerful model and actionable steps that can be used to overcome these common hurdles and build a cohesive, effective team.
The Origins of Virtue by Matt Ridley
Another one that may seem out of place. An examination of the roots of human trust and virtue. Zoologist and former editor of the Economist reveals the results of studies that suggest that self-interest and mutual aid are not at all incompatible. Examples from history, everyday life, and economic analysis make the book relevant to the modern workplace.
by John C. Maxwell
A guide for building and maintaining champion level teams and then leading them to the peak level of success regardless of the field. Solid, practical advice.
Plus one I couldn't resist:
Teamwork by Robert Munsch
A story that will remind folks that everyone brings their own set of special talents to a team...
How important is cooperation, collaboration, and teamwork to your work life?