What Do Successful CEOs Read?

There are plenty of ways to motivate and inspire yourself. You could work out or pump yourself up by listening to music. Or maybe you prefer to get lost in daydreams about future success.

Personally, hearing someone’s unique success story or watching any of Eric Thomas’ YouTube videos inspires me to work toward being a better person. However, I’ve also always been curious about what actions successful CEOs take to ensure the success of their companies.

The answer is simple: They read.

Founder of 1851 and CEO of No Limit Agency* Nick Powills mentioned he likes to think of himself as a “sponge of information,” as he is always reading new stories.

“On a daily basis, I visit ESPN, CNN, Curbed (because I like looking at property movement), Eater and (please don’t tell anyone) TMZ,” he said. As far as print publications, Entrepreneur and Fast Company are at the top of his list.

“I always find a way to find inspiration out of every issue [of Fast Company],” he said. “If you looked at the copies in my office, you would see them completely marked up with bent page markers and Sharpie.”

What CEOs read typically differs based on their companies’ industry. Other than Fast Company and Entrepreneur, Famous Toastery CEO and co-founder Robert Maynard said his reading list leans toward franchising and the restaurant industry.

“I enjoy reading Nation’s Restaurant News, Franchise Times, Inc., QSR, FSR and Restaurant Monitor,” Maynard said. “Not only do I educate myself on what is trending but learn about other entrepreneurs’ successes. Both can be extremely motivating to try and incorporate something new for Famous Toastery.”

Which Wich founder, CEO and chief vibe officer Jeff Sinelli, who has led his national sandwich franchise chain, best known for its customizable sandwiches, creative ordering system and personalized sandwich bag, to 400 locations open or in development in 38 states and eight countries, also has a detailed reading list he has applied to business operations.

"Making sure our franchisees are happy while our customers receive impeccable service is at the top of our list to achieve success," he said. “I applied many things from my past as well as things I have read from Multi-Unit Leadership by Jim Sullivan, Raving Fans by Ken Blanchard & Sheldon Bowles, Zingerman’s Guide to Giving Great Service by Ari Weinzweig and The Ultimate Blueprint by Keith J. Cunningham."

So if you’re looking to succeed in business, do yourself a favor by picking up the next title that catches your eye. Who knows, could be your first step to becoming the next successful franchise CEO.