05-05-2026IMPACT COUNCIL

Why leaders should consider launching a business book club 

Three tips for turning reading into a practice for building strong thinkers on your team.

[Photo: Getty Images]

The Fast Company Impact Council is an invitation-only membership community of top leaders and experts who pay dues for access to peer learning, thought leadership, and more.

What you read reflects who you are. Leaders like Warren Buffett, Bill Gates, Elon Musk, Indra Nooyi, and Mark Cuban advocate reading extensively to gain knowledge and challenge assumptions. At a minimum, reading widely develops a key business skill—making intelligent small talk. More importantly, reading and actively discussing ideas enhances critical thinking skills.

Unfortunately, some studies show that only 16% of Americans read daily and for pleasure. Before the digital revolution, that number was well over 50%. Even more concerning, the latest statistics show that about a third of high school graduates have college-level reading skills.

Leading a book club is a great way to share your business experience, develop early-stage workers, and inspire the next generation of reading advocates. I started a book club focused specifically on books written by business leaders at Wake Forest University. Book clubs are fun, but they are not easy. I’ve learned a few rules for success.

RULE #1: OWN THE LEADERSHIP ROLE

You must read the entire book and prepare for the........

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