Top 12 Career Books to Fast-Track Your Growth in 2025 | CV Pilots

Top 12 Career Books to Fast-Track Your Growth in 2025

The world of work has changed dramatically, and the career wisdom we need has evolved too. Here’s our handpicked reading list—modern, impactful, and built for professionals in the UK navigating a transformed job market in 2025.

Whether you're refining your purpose, pivoting careers, building resilience, or launching a side hustle, this list has something powerful for you.

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1. The 5 Types of Wealth by Sahil Bloom (2025)

A fresh addition to career literature, Bloom challenges us to consider wealth beyond just money. His model spans financial, mental, physical, time, and social capital—all essential to sustainable success. Recruiters and career winners alike are praising its holistic, future-focused approach.
Wikipedia

2. Qualified: How Competency Checking and Race Collide at Work by Shari Dunn (2025)

A trenchant and timely exploration of how professionals of colour are held to higher competence standards. Dunn’s ideas are shaping discussions on workplace equity, especially across UK boardrooms and executive search firms.
Wikipedia

3. Moral Ambition by Rutger Bregman (2025)

This insightful read invites leaders to redefine success—focusing it not on personal gain but on meaningful social impact. It’s ideal for anyone who cares not just about climbing the ladder but lifting others along the way.
Financial Times

4. Who Better Than You?: The Art of Healthy Arrogance and Dreaming Big by Will Packer (2025)

A bold, inspiring take on self-belief and leadership, Packer’s book is a permission slip for those daring to dream big—even without the odds in their favour.
People.com

5. Me, But Better: The Science and Promise of Personality Change by Olga Khazan (2025)

Changing who you are is possible—and Khazan shows us how. Packed with science-backed insight, this book helps readers navigate professional growth by intentionally evolving their approach and mindset.
Wikipedia+2PowerToFly+2

6. Navigate Your Career by Shveta Miglani (June 2025)

A modern classic waiting to happen, Miglani equips professionals—especially those in transition—with frameworks for mastering new roles and promotions with confidence and clarity.
Calendar

7. Superagency: What Could Possibly Go Right With Our AI Future by Reid Hoffman (2025)

Far from alarmist, Hoffman’s optimistic view of AI offers a roadmap for integrating technology into our careers. It’s both practical and hopeful—an essential read for anyone keen to future-proof their path.
Wikipedia

8. Half-Arse Human: How to Live Better Without Burning Out by Leena Norms (2025)

A humour-infused, antidote to hustle culture. Norms redefines productivity as doing just enough—and doing it well—without sacrificing your well-being. Just what UK professionals need today.
The Guardian

9. The Career Manifesto by Mike Steib

With clarity and simplicity, Steib helps readers uncover calling, map a plan, and build accountability into their career journeys. It’s purpose-driven guidance for modern professionals.
PenguinRandomhouse.com

10. Designing Your Life Series by Bill Burnett & Dave Evans

These perennial favourites remain relevant—and their "life-as-design" approach is more useful than ever. Read the original to shape your vision, then follow up with Designing Your New Work Life to reimagine how to thrive in your current role.
careeraddict.com+2tiger-recruitment.com+2

11. Business Adventures by John Brooks

A timeless classic recommended by leaders like Bill Gates and Warren Buffett for a reason. Brooks’s tales of historic corporate missteps and triumphs offer perspective—and a healthy dose of humility.
businessinsider.com

12. Good To Great by Jim Collins

Still indispensable in 2025, Collins helps you distinguish between good and truly great leadership. A must-read that continues to shape how executives think about long-term success.
businessinsider.com

In Summary

Here's your 2025 reading list—fresh, timely, and packed with strategic career wisdom. Whether you're aiming to lead with impact, respect your well-being, future-proof your skills, or simply find your purpose, these books offer invaluable guidance.

Want a summary infographic, LinkedIn post, or curated reading path based on your career stage? Just ask—I’m here to help.