What's the one piece of advice for leaders from Warren Buffett?

When he was asked that question in a recent interview, his response was, “Read, read, read!”

That also is the philosophy of AICPA Chairman, Ernie Almonte, who told me he reads at least a book a week.

I am just now finishing up a few books (I like to have three or four at a time in process). The highlight for me is Grown Up Digital: How the Net Generation is Changing Your World, by Don Tapscott. It is a must-have manual for dealing with the net generation (millennials). Leadership on the Line: Staying Alive Through the Dangers of Leading is a book by Ernie's former professor, Marty Linsky, and Harvard leadership expert Ron Heifetz. This is great book about leadership and how to stay sane in crazy times like these.

My pleasure read is Grant Takes Command, by Bruce Catton, a historical account of the controversial civil war general who is credited with bringing the Civil War to a positive conclusion. This was recommend by David Gergen (former White House advisor to several presidents) when he spoke at AICPA Council this past May. This has actually become a fascinating story about leadership — from Lincoln's leadership in selecting and supporting Grant, to Grant's “servant leadership” style, and finally the example of building on your people'e strengths in an organization.

You can find all of my books on the social networking site Shelfari, on my bookshelf. Sign up (it's free) and join us at the CPA Leadership Group, where you can add books and share insights.

The best books I have read come from recommendations by friends and colleagues. So what's on your shelf? How about sharing any of your best reads and major insights in the comments below?