HR has long relied on structured policies, frameworks, and best practices. But in a world where work is being reshaped by technology, AI, and evolving leadership expectations, traditional playbooks need a refresh. At People Matters TechHR India 2025, the most influential HR and work-tech conference, we bring together global thinkers and industry pioneers to decode the future of HR. This year, Dave Ulrich, the architect of modern HR, will take the stage to explore how HR can drive business impact. His insights have shaped the way organisations build people strategies, and his presence at People Matters TechHR India 2025 is an unmissable opportunity for HR leaders looking to stay ahead of the curve.

But learning doesn’t stop at conferences. Books have long been a source of timeless wisdom, offering deep insights into leadership, culture, and business transformation. As we prepare to hear from Dave Ulrich and other industry visionaries, here’s a curated list of five must-read books that every HR leader should dive into.

1. 'HR from the Outside In' by Dave Ulrich, Jon Younger, Wayne Brockbank, and Mike Ulrich

Why HR leaders must look beyond policies and focus on business impact

HR has traditionally been seen as an internal function, managing compliance, talent, and workplace culture. But Dave Ulrich challenges this mindset, arguing that HR’s real power lies in influencing business strategy and workforce transformation. In this book, he emphasises the need for HR professionals to think like business leaders, align HR with customer and market needs, and drive measurable impact.

Key Takeaway: HR is not just about people—it’s about business success. At People Matters TechHR India, Dave Ulrich will expand on how HR can become the most critical business function of the future.

2. Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman

How cognitive biases shape decision-making—and why HR leaders must understand them

Daniel Kahneman, a Nobel Prize-winning psychologist, breaks down human thinking into two systems: fast, intuitive decisions and slow, analytical reasoning. For HR leaders, understanding these mental shortcuts and biases is crucial in areas like hiring, talent management, and leadership development. This book reveals why people often make irrational decisions and how organisations can design better strategies for performance and engagement.

Key Takeaway: HR must recognise and mitigate biases in decision-making, from recruitment to leadership choices. Expect insights at People Matters TechHR India on how behavioural science is transforming HR strategies.

3. The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle

What makes some teams extraordinary while others struggle?

Great workplaces don’t happen by accident. Daniel Coyle explores the DNA of high-performing teams, from elite military units to innovative companies, revealing that psychological safety, shared purpose, and trust are the key ingredients of a thriving culture.

Key Takeaway: HR must move beyond policies and act as the culture architect, ensuring employees feel safe to contribute ideas and innovate. At People Matters TechHR India, we’ll explore how organisations are rethinking culture in a hybrid and AI-powered workplace.

4. Drive by Daniel H. Pink

The science of motivation and why traditional rewards don’t work

Why do some employees go above and beyond while others do just enough to get by? Daniel Pink argues that autonomy, mastery, and purpose are the true drivers of motivation—not just bonuses or promotions. This book is essential for HR leaders who want to design workplaces that inspire employees rather than control them.

Key Takeaway: HR must rethink performance management, moving from rewards-based systems to motivation-driven cultures. At People Matters TechHR India, leaders will share how they’re building organisations that attract and retain top talent through purpose-driven work.

5. Radical Candor by Kim Scott

How honest feedback builds stronger teams

Feedback is often either too harsh or too vague to be useful. Kim Scott introduces Radical Candor, a simple but powerful framework for giving feedback that is both caring and direct. Leaders who master this skill foster trust, accountability, and high-performing teams.

Key Takeaway: HR must create a culture of feedback, ensuring employees and leaders engage in open, constructive conversations. At People Matters TechHR India, expect in-depth discussions on leadership in the age of continuous learning.

The HR Playbook of Tomorrow – Starting at People Matters TechHR India 2025

HR is no longer just about policies—it’s about shaping culture, leadership, and business strategy. These five books offer powerful lessons for HR professionals looking to stay ahead of change and lead their organisations into the future.

At People Matters TechHR India 2025, we will deep-dive into the new HR playbook with sessions covering Dave Ulrich’s insights on the evolution of HR, AI-driven talent strategies and HR analytics, Culture transformation in the digital era, Leadership lessons for the modern workforce and more. 

Register Now to join us at People Matters TechHR India 2025, scheduled to be held at Yashobhoomi Convention Centre, New Delhi on July 31 and August 1, 2025 and be part of the conversation that will redefine the people and work landscape in the country.

Curious to know more about the People Matters TechHR India 2025 speakers, workshops, agenda, and more? Download the Delegate Brochure now!

Which of these books have shaped your leadership approach? What’s on your reading list? Let’s discuss!