Back to Basics: 3 Marketing Books to Read2 min read
Reading Time: 2 minutesIt’s easy to get caught up in the marketing jargon. Or to feel lost in the complexities of the ever-evolving world of marketing tactics. Ultimately, as a marketer, you have two key tasks. The first is to understand consumer behavior. The second is to tell compelling stories that elicit a desired behavior. If you’re feeling a little turned around—or if you’re just getting started—these 3 marketing books can help you reset.
And remember, the most advanced marketing automation program won’t work if you’re not telling the right story. Reinvigorate your storytelling skills by getting back to the basics with these resources.
Book #1
This is Marketing: You Can’t Be Seen Until You Learn to See
by Seth Godin
Why I Liked It
- There were no references to complex marketing terms that I had to look up, making this book a great read for those with any level of marketing knowledge. It’s very shareable with non-marketing peers, which makes it great for a cross-functional team book club.
- Seth writes about how marketing can make people’s lives better. It’s inspiring to see how you can use your platform to create change—and to have a far-reaching, positive impact.
- The book has a strong focus on affinity marketing. One of my favorite points from Seth is “people like us do things like this.” Basically, marketing is about creating connections on a deep level, which then builds a deep and meaningful relationship with your prospects and customers.
Book #2
Neuromarketing
by Patrick Renvoise
Why I Liked It
- It breaks down in a digestible way how our “old brain” works to make fundamental decisions.
- There is a strong emphasis on identifying “pain points.” Specifically, finding the deeply rooted pain points that customers don’t even know they have, then using these pain points to create a compelling value proposition.
- The book contains useful tactical frameworks to help you work through the neuromarketing process and create the building blocks you need for success.
Book #3
The Non-Obvious Guide to Small Business Marketing (Without a Big Budget)
by Rohit Bhargava
Why I Liked It
- This short guide can be read on a plane ride. It’s easy to read and full of practical ideas and tactics. Bhargava has created the type of reference guide you can highlight, mark up in the margin, and keep on your desk for reference.
- It’s not complicated and contains scrappy techniques for small businesses. However, even if you’re not a small business, there are plenty of foundational marketing pearls.
- Easy-to-understand real-world case studies illustrate the key principles in a simple way that’s easy to digest and remember.
So there you have it! Reset, charge your batteries, and then get back to the work you do best. Have a favorite marketing book we didn’t list here? Share it in the comments, and let us know why you like it!
