Over the past 10-15 years, I have read countless books on marketing.
Unfortunately, most of them were a waste of time. They could have easily been blog posts or even newsletter emails. (Or they're just a long opt-in to a product/program 😒).
Instead, I encourage you to give these three a read.
They're well worth the time.
Book #1: Cumulative Advantage, Mark Schaefer
I first read this book in 2021 after loving another of his books, Marketing Rebellion.
And here's why you'll love it:
You need to rely on momentum when you're a small business with limited resources. This book is a masterclass on generating momentum.
Like his other books, Schaefer doesn't hold back. Follow the lessons, and results will come.
Book #2: The Minimalist Entrepreneur, Sahil Lavingia
This book was recommended to me on Twitter, of all places. Sahil Lavingia is the founder of the e-commerce platform Gumroad.
Here's why I think you'll love it:
Lavingia's story is compelling. When he started Gumroad, he intended to become a funded unicorn with a parachute. When that didn't work out (epically/catastrophically), he embarked on a new path — becoming a minimalist entrepreneur.
Although not a 'marketing book' per se, Lavingia's chapters on selling to your first hundred customers and how to market by being you are SOLID GOLD.
Book #3: Everybody Writes, Ann Handley
Finally, I think everyone should read this book, even if you hate writing and don't consider yourself a content creator or marketer or you think AI writing tools are amazing (they're not).
And here's why I think you'll love it:
It's funny.
And, despite what the AI robots say, marketing is about two things: storytelling and relationships.
Master both, and your business becomes unstoppable.
Not Much of a Reader? Get Ongoing Training & Support You Can Trust
Based on my 1:1 marketing consulting work and contracts with Prosper Portland and Xcelerate Women, I've created a marketing support system called the Strategic Marketing Membership.
The membership addresses four critical areas:
- A coach or advisor to answer key questions and demystify marketing
- Time to execute marketing goals
- Accountability to reinforce follow-through
- Marketing training for business owners (not practitioners) to make informed decisions
If you're an overwhelmed self-marketer running a service-based business who's tired of going it alone, I've got you.
Ready for ongoing support?
Join us in the Strategic Marketing Membership where we offer events, coaching, and accountability.
Questions? Hit reply and ask!
💌 That's a wrap.
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See you again next week.
Have a great day,
Jen
P.S. Ready To Work Together? Here are 3 ways to receive support:
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