Laika Book Club: May Edition

By Isabelle Van der Trappen

It’s no secret that the comms field changes every day, especially in Germany, where the innovation rate is at 117.8% of the EU average, according to Europa.eu. At Laika, it is our mission to communicate the idea’s of tomorrow. By listening to podcasts, reading newsletters, or books, we keep on learning and getting inspired, which in some cases raises new insights into our client’s work. For Laika’s May Book Club, we asked our seniors what book they found particularly enjoyable or thought-provoking and what takeaways they took from it, resulting in 5 must-reads that will broaden your perspective on comms.

Make Time by Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky

Have you ever wished for more hours in a day? If so, this book is a must-read for you! The title Make Time already slightly reveals what it is about: time. Productivity experts Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky help you quit daydreaming and instead start your space journey of productivity. Learn more about their four-step method to manage your daily time use well while reading the book!

Kamal explains why he likes the style of the book: “For me, the book stands out for its actionable and transformative approach to managing time in our fast-paced world. It offers practical strategies and insightful advice, the authors provide a refreshing perspective on productivity and focus, guiding readers towards reclaiming control over their daily routines.”

Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss

“Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss offers a treasure trove of negotiation techniques drawn from Voss's experiences as an FBI hostage negotiator. One lesson that particularly resonated with me is the concept of ‘tactical empathy.’ Voss emphasizes the importance of understanding the emotions and perspectives of the other party in a negotiation, even in high-stakes situations. This approach fosters trust and rapport, which are crucial for reaching mutually beneficial agreements. By genuinely listening and empathizing with the other side, we can uncover their underlying needs and motivations, paving the way for creative solutions that satisfy both parties. This principle has broad applicability beyond negotiation, serving as a reminder of the power of empathy in all forms of communication and conflict resolution,” shares Andrea.

The Wall Street Journal bestseller shares the experiences of Chris Voss, an award-winning lecturer at the world's most prestigious business schools. Take a deep dive into Voss' career as an FBI chief negotiator in international kidnapping cases and test the effectiveness of the techniques he talks about in the book. Let’s prepare to launch your negotiation skills to new heights as you apply the celestial wisdom gleaned from Voss' experiences.

Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek

In addition to his - probably most famous - book It Starts with Why, bestselling author Simon Sinek has also penned the book Leaders Eat Last. Entering a universe where leaders create and support environments where people feel trusted, motivated, and valued. What does it take to be a good leader? According to the Next Big Idea Club: “People motivated by a cause—the WHY—guarantee a higher chance of success than people that might have more qualified skills. Great organizations become great because of the people inside of it. If there is a strong, inspired sense of culture, those in the organization feel protected and safe because they belong.” Just as Sinek emphasizes the importance of a shared purpose in organizations, space missions depend on a common goal. A leader in space must articulate this mission clearly and inspire the team to work towards it collaboratively. In the book, Sinek questions the meaning of leadership and gives you thoughts on today's management style. 

Ela, CEO and Founder of Laika explains why she thinks the book is a good read: “I generally agree with the main message of the book. Simon Sinek explains a lot about leadership that also describes my management style and what I’d like to see in people. I believe in the greatness that comes from great people, that leaders should "eat last" and that you need to feel protected and safe and have a sense of belonging to thrive. I’ve also read his other books It Starts with Why, and The Infinite Game - which, if you are not a fan of reading, is also discussed in the podcast of Brene Brown.”

Ogilvy on Advertising by David Ogilvy

The timeless classic, written by David Ogilvy, the father of modern advertising. In the book, he shares his insights and experiences from his illustrious career in advertising. He covers various topics such as the importance of research, the power of headlines, the art of storytelling, and the significance of creating compelling visuals. Just as astronauts rely on precise calculations, Ogilvy emphasizes the importance of meticulous research in crafting impactful campaigns. The straightforward writing style and practical advice of the writer make the book a must-read for anyone interested in the world of advertising.

“In his book Ogilvy on Advertising, penned by the advertising luminary David Ogilvy himself, there exists timeless knowledge. Originally published in 1983, its principles remain profoundly relevant even today. I strongly advocate for all students, agencies, marketing departments, and C-levels to delve into this book and absorb its insights. It makes you understand the history of comms and still gives guidance today”, says Can.

The Creative Act by Rick Rubin

It's no secret that the American record producer is good at connecting people with music. But did you know that he also tries to reconnect people to a state of innocence and help them get to the source of creativity? The Creative Act is about Rick Rubin's thoughts on connecting yourself to the world and increasing the creativity within yourself. This New York Time Bestseller helps you transcend your self-imposed expectations.

“This book captivated me with a profound exploration of the creative process by one of the great music producers out there. Through a blend of artistic insights, practical exercises, and inspiring anecdotes, the author Rick Rubin illuminates the transformative power of creativity in all aspects of life. It’s not so much of a “you’ll need to read this from beginning to end”, but offers insights, perspectives, and thoughts that can inspire on a daily basis,” shares Kamal.

To wrap up our journey of discovery through space, each of these must-reads has broadened the perspective of our space captain or at least one of our Senior Space Dogs. May they serve as beacons of inspiration, from FBI-agent Chris Voss to record producer Rick Rubin. Let's carry these lessons with us, drawing upon them to inspire innovation and drive meaningful change. Join us as we continue to learn, grow, and communicate tomorrow together.