Top books to read for construction pros: 4 experts share the books that transformed their business

Whether you’re in leadership, working in the field, or an intern at the office, constant learning about your trade is essential.

Continuous learning is the key to growth and success. It’s how entrepreneurs launch new businesses and how companies scale from six figures to eight figures. No one has complete knowledge of their industry, so to improve continuously, you must keep learning.

Conferences, videos, lectures, classes, and mentorship are all excellent ways to enhance your skills. However, an often overlooked resource for busy construction professionals is books.

For those who enjoy reading before bed or listening to audiobooks during their commute to the job site, this list is for you. Unlike podcasts or online courses, books provide more extensive information and allow you to delve deeper into the subject.

Best books for starting a construction business

Launch your company successfully by mastering the essentials of starting a construction business from the ground up. These books offer comprehensive strategies to guide you through the process of establishing and managing your own construction company.

1. “Running a Successful Construction Company (For Pros, by Pros)” by David Gerstel

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2. “Start Your Own Construction and Contracting Business: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Success” by The Staff of Entrepreneur Media

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3. EXPERT RECOMMENDATION: “The E-Myth: Why Most Businesses Don’t Work and What to Do About It” by Michael E. Gerber

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Best books for preventing your construction business from failing

If you’re grappling with low profits, dissatisfied clients, or poor work-life balance, it might be time to reassess your business practices. These books offer valuable insights and strategies to help you navigate the challenges of running a construction company during tough times.

4. “Building a Successful Construction Company: The Practical Guide” by Paul Netscher

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5. “Contractor’s Survival Guide: Building Your Business in Good Times and Bad” by Jason Reid

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6. EXPERT RECOMMENDATION: “The Power of One More: The Ultimate Guide to Happiness and Success” by Ed Mylett

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Best books for increasing profits in your construction business

Don’t let a lack of financial knowledge impact your bottom line. Discover the best tips and strategies for boosting your profits and scaling your business with these insightful books.

7. “Markup & Profit: A Contractor’s Guide, Revisited” by Michael C. Stone

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8. “Financial Planning Guide for a Happy New Year” by Buildertrend staff

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9. “Get Your Construction Business to Always Make a Profit!” by George Hedley

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Best books for improving construction processes

A business can only truly succeed with solid processes in place. Well-defined processes ensure your company operates smoothly, avoiding the chaos often associated with construction. These books will teach you how to create standard operating procedures, allowing you to take a break with confidence, knowing your team has everything under control.

10. EXPERT RECOMMENDATION: “Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win” by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin

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11. “Escape the Owner Prison: The Contractors New Way to Scale, Regain Control and Fast Track Growth While Loving Life” by Richard Walsh

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12. EXPERT RECOMMENDATION: “The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don’t Work and What to Do About It” by Michael E. Gerber

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Best books for foremen, superintendents and project managers

Even if you don’t own a business, you can still enhance your knowledge and skills. These books offer valuable tips to help you become the best foreman, superintendent, or project manager.

13. “Construction Leadership Success: The Construction Foreman’s Definitive Guide for Running Safe, Efficient, and Profitable Projects” by Jason C. McCarty

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14. “Elevating Construction Superintendents: A Principle Based Leadership Guide for Assistant Supers and Superintendents in Construction (The Art of the Builder, Book 1)” by Jason Schroeder

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15. “Construction Project Manager’s Pocket Book” by Duncan Cartlidge

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Best books for adopting technology in your construction business

The best business owners understand that papers and spreadsheets can hold you back. Embrace the 21st century by integrating technology into your operations, and watch your company succeed at an accelerated rate.

16. “The Construction Technology Handbook: Making Sense of Artificial Intelligence and Beyond” by Hugh Seaton