PR ON THE GO January 5, 2025

The Startup Bookshelf

Top Book Recommendations for Entrepreneurs to Master Communications and PR (Including Classic Reads)

We asked our PR and growth experts for their top reads on improving communication skills for entrepreneurial success.
This is the ultimate compilation, each with practical advice and timeless value to inspire and educate entrepreneurs to master PR.

We hope you enjoy our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all have been independently selected by our editors. FYI: PR ON THE GO and its publishing partners may earn a commission and/or other compensation from links on this page.

Smart Brevity: The Power of Saying More with Less by Jim VandeHei, Mike Allen, and Roy Schwartz

RECOMMENDED BY: Emily Reynolds-Bergh, Owner at R Public Relations

"I highly recommend the book Smart Brevity: The Power of Saying More with Less by Jim VandeHei, Mike Allen, and Roy Schwartz. At the end of the day, all types of PR–from crisis communications to media relations–are about effectively communicating with unique audiences. If you aren’t saying what you need to say clearly, directly, and compellingly, you’re wasting your time. This book helps new and seasoned PR professionals get to the root of their messaging quickly and yield better results. Overall, I don’t believe you can be a great entrepreneur without exceptional communication skills. Not only do you have to communicate externally with potential and existing customers and clients, but you must effectively communicate internally with leadership, stakeholders, and employees. Your words must be persuasive and targeted, and the success of your business may hinge on how well you craft a sentence. I love this book because it provides practical advice and enduring value. Treat it like your cheat sheet to better business communications."

This is Marketing: You Can’t Be Seen Until You Learn To See by Seth Godin

RECOMMENDED BY: Paige Arnof-Fenn, Owner at Mavens & Moguls

"For me books by practitioners are more relevant/have current examples from pop culture vs. theories based on research so I recommend: Anything by Seth Godin like This is Marketing, you can’t be seen until you learn to see. He’s a master who really understands what drives people to purchase from a practitioner’s perspective using first-hand experience/simple language not jargon. Everybody Writes: Your go to guide to creating ridiculously good content by Ann Handley Handley argues that in an online world everyone is a writer so you need to learn how to create content that attracts/retains people’s attention. She provides practical tips/easy grammar/usage rules that are valuable whether you are working with a big brand or startup these are best practices that will make your writing better. Fanocracy, Turning fans into customers and customers into fans by David Meerman Scott David’s book is a real world practitioner's guide from someone who has lived the job from the front line, he has been there and done it so he tells it like it is not theoretically but from the trenches. The name of the game today is how to get your fans engaged online and here is the manual to do it. Finally How To Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie is a classic with timeless advice on manners and people/human nature. When it comes to evergreen communications wisdom you cannot go wrong with this one."

African American Communication: Exploring Identity and Culture (Routledge Communication Series) by Michael L. Hecht

RECOMMENDED BY: Dr. Trenice Brinkley, Publicist at Two Queens Media

"If you’re an entrepreneur with dreams bigger than your to-do list, you must master communication and PR. Period. Without it, your groundbreaking ideas are just wishful whispers in an empty room. Enter African American Communication: Exploring Identity and Culture by Michael L. Hecht, Ronald L. Jackson II, and Sidney A. Ribeau, a game-changer for anyone serious about connecting authentically and making their mark. This powerhouse of a book unpacks the unique communication styles in African American communities and shows how cultural identity shapes how we interact. If you’re navigating diverse markets, and let’s be real, you should be, this is the blueprint for building trust and credibility with a wide audience. Why this book? Because it’s a masterclass in actionable insights. The authors take complex ideas, sprinkle them with realness, and make them effortlessly practical. You’ll walk away understanding the power of cultural nuance, how to finesse intercultural conversations, and how to craft messages that hit all the right notes. Translation? This book is the ultimate playbook for stepping up your communication game. So grab it, learn it, live it—and watch your entrepreneurial empire rise."

Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die Chip Heath and Dan Heath

RECOMMENDED BY: Alicia Cintron, Research Public Communications Trainer & Consultant, Founder at Cintron, Revised

"Made to Stick by Chip and Dan Heath and Smart Brevity by the co-founders of Axios are two essential books for modern communication.

Made to Stick teaches us how to transform complex ideas into memorable messages that resonate deeply with audiences— from coworkers to external stakeholders. While "Made to Stick" focuses on creating lasting impact, "Smart Brevity" addresses the reality of our attention-scarce world, where you typically have just 26 seconds to capture and hold someone's attention. The Smart Brevity method emphasizes knowing your audience, leading with impact, and explaining the "why" behind your message— all while keeping content digestible and focused. What I loved most about "Smart Brevity" is the book is written in the short-form format they are preaching.

For entrepreneurs looking to improve their communication skills, these books offer practical frameworks that can transform how their messages are received and remembered. Plus they are quick, entertaining reads!"

Writing for Busy Readers: Communicate More Effectively in the Real World by Todd Rogers and Jessica Lasky-Fink

RECOMMENDED BY: Annette Gallagher, Founder at Red Tornado Communication

"My two must-reads on communicating for entrepreneurs in today's world are Smart Brevity, written by the team who founded Axios, and Writing for Busy Readers by Todd Rogers and Jessica Lasky-Fink. Both books emphasize relationship building through communication that respects people's time by removing fluff from messaging to get straight to the point. I teach writing for strategic communication and recommend both to my students, as well as incorporate their principles into my daily copywriting."

On Brand: Shape Your Narrative. Share Your Vision. Shift Their Perception. by Aliza Licht

RECOMMENDED BY: Rosemary Ravinal, Bilingual Speaker Coach, TEDx Speaker, Author at RMR Communications Consulting

"My best advice to master communications and public relations is to hire public relations professionals to guide you. But, if you want to learn about current practices and the profession overall, you should read books published after 2022. The business is evolving quickly and overlapping into other specialties—digital marketing, branding, advertising, public speaking, and social media. Here are three of my favorites that cover the changing landscape of public relations, emphasizing storytelling, brand purpose, modern strategies, and the core habits of top-tier PR professionals.

1. On Brand: Shape Your Narrative. Share Your Vision. Shift Their Perception by Aliza Licht (2023)

2. When in Doubt, Make Applesauce! Core Habits of the Masterful Public Relations Professional by Marc C. Whitt (2022)

3. Purposeful Brands: How Purpose and Sustainability Drive Brand Value and Positive Change by Sandy Skees (2023)"

Pitch Anything: An Innovative Method for Presenting, Persuading, and Winning the Deal by Oren Klaff

RECOMMENDED BY: Rizala Carrington, CEO at MyGrowthAgent.com

"My top book recommendation for entrepreneurs to master communications and PR is Pitch Anything by Oren Klaff. Unlike traditional communication books, this one dives into the psychology behind persuasion and teaches you how to control the narrative in any conversation. Klaff introduces the concept of "frame control," showing how to position yourself as the authority and captivate your audience in a way that's both strategic and authentic. This book isn't just about pitching; it's about mastering the art of influence, which is essential for building relationships, gaining media attention, and winning over clients or investors. For entrepreneurs looking to communicate with confidence and impact, “Pitch Anything” offers practical, unforgettable strategies."

Confessions of a Public Speaker by Scott Berkun

RECOMMENDED BY: Billy Rhyne, CEO & Founder | Entrepreneur, Travel expert | Land Developer and Merchant Builder at Horseshoe Ridge RV Resort

"One book I highly recommend is Confessions of a Public Speaker by Scott Berkun. It offers practical insights into communication and handling public speaking challenges, which every entrepreneur faces at some point. Berkun's writing is engaging and honest, making it easy to relate to his experiences. For entrepreneurs, clear communication builds trust and credibility with clients, partners, and your audience, and this book helps sharpen that skill. I've applied the principles outlined in the book to pitch ideas effectively and to inspire confidence during project presentations.

Another valuable read is The New Rules of Marketing and PR by David Meerman Scott. It provides actionable strategies for connecting with modern audiences. Both books have directly impacted how I connect with people in the RV resort industry, helping me articulate brand values and engage meaningfully."

Everybody Writes: Your New and Improved Go-To Guide to Creating Ridiculously Good Content by Ann Handley

RECOMMENDED BY: Antoinette Jackson, Creative Director & Founder at SuperBee

"My best advice to entrepreneurs who are looking to increase their communication and PR abilities is Ann Handley's Everybody Writes (2014). I feel this book was different because it treats writing as something that can be learned by anybody, regardless of their level of proficiency.

I personally found her practical content writing tips and focus on clarity to be very helpful when establishing PR and social media campaigns. Handley's phrase of writing as "a love letter to your audience" was something I really felt comfortable doing—it made me think differently about messaging and made each piece of content have a specific purpose. For me, using her tips to craft brief, value-added press releases ensured I got news coverage that mattered.

The thing I really like about “Everybody Writes” is it doesn't consider writing a specialist field. I think it allows business owners to speak the truth, which is what establishes a relationship and trust with an audience. For instance, her focus on "practical writing" compelled me to write an FAQ for potential customers that was informative as well as highlighted the strengths of our brand and double conversions."

How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie

RECOMMENDED BY: Aseem Jha, Founder at Legal Consulting Pro

"As a founder, one book I highly recommend for entrepreneurs looking to master communications and PR is How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie. This classic has been a game-changer for me in terms of building strong relationships, whether with clients, partners, or my own team.

I vividly remember when I first started my company, I was focused on providing exceptional service but quickly realized that my communication skills—especially in client relationships—could be even more effective.

Carnegie's principles of listening actively, showing genuine interest in others, and making people feel important helped me establish trust and rapport, which has been essential for client retention and growth. Even though it's an older book, its timeless strategies are just as relevant today and have had a lasting impact on my ability to manage client expectations and public relations."

Influence, New and Expanded: The Psychology of Persuasion Hardcover by Robert B Cialdini PhD

RECOMMENDED BY: Even Fusdahl Hulleberg, CMO at Recharge Health

"Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion by Robert Cialdini (1984) is a must-read for entrepreneurs who want to master communication and PR. It's a true classic.

The book takes you through the psychology of "yes," and how to structure a message to resonate. Cialdini discusses notions such as reciprocity, authority, and social proof, applying these principles to concrete scenarios. Whether you are pitching investors or presenting to a crowded public, this book is for entrepreneurs trying to craft high-pressure messages that come across as authentic and effective.

My favorite part of Cialdini's work is the way it directs your attention to the finer details of human behavior. The tactics extend beyond mere communications hacks, encouraging you to watch for the little subtle cues that inspire confidence and interest. I've witnessed these values transform technical dry sales pitches into powerful narratives that stick with the listener after the call has concluded. The book is a must-read for anyone serious about improving their persuasion and connection, bringing together classic psychology and business tips for entrepreneurs today."

Spin Sucks: Communication and Reputation Management in the Digital Age by Gini Dietrich

RECOMMENDED BY: Evgen Tymoshenko, CMO at Skylum

"One book that I find especially valuable for contemporary PR is Spin Sucks: Communication and Reputation Management in the Digital Age by Gini Dietrich. It's about the ethics of communications, which is extremely important nowadays. Contemporary audiences are smart and very sensitive to fakeness and pure commercialism. That's why the author argues that classic spin doesn't work anymore; instead, audiences seek authenticity and honesty. The book offers frameworks and practical tips on how to foster ethical communication not just for the sake of moral improvement, but strategy. Basically, it teaches you how ethical and authentic PR is key for both good reputation and customer loyalty."

A Supposedly Fun Thing I'll Never Do Again: Essays and Arguments by David Foster Wallace

RECOMMENDED BY: Luke Shipman, Director & Founder at The London Ghostwriting Company

"David Foster Wallace's 1997 essay collection A Supposedly Fun Thing I'll Never Do Again is a masterclass in how to craft a writerly voice and provides valuable insights concerning audience perception and the importance of authenticity. In the titular essay, Wallace's entertaining critique of a luxury cruise experience highlights how over-the-top messaging and superficial marketing can feel almost absurdly disingenuous, alienating the audience it aims to impress.

Entrepreneurs can learn that overly curated, hyperbolic narratives may backfire when faced with audiences who increasingly value sincerity and transparency over excessive polish. Self-conscious, cerebral, but enormously vulnerable, Wallace's observational prose teaches entrepreneurs to understand the emotional and experiential realities of their audience by stepping into the consumer's shoes."

The Boron Letters by Gary C. Halbert

RECOMMENDED BY: Felix Yim, Co-Founder and Marketing Director at Humanize AI

"The best book isn't a book per se. It's a series of letters that have been turned into a book.

It's called The Boron Letters by Gary Halbert.

Here's the thing, it's relatively old school.

Many of the things are a bit dated like the testing strategies he talks about, and he focuses a lot on direct mail.

But, what he says about writing is pure gold. He refers to it as copywriting, but so much of what he writes about has applications to PR.

When you're doing PR, a lot of what you do involves pitching the right people and crafting relevant stories.

Gary Halbert’s letters cover this in spades: how to figure out what people want, how to get them interested, and how to pitch them in a way that they agree with.

If nothing else, reading it will improve your understanding of how to structure your pitches and improve your writing."

Never Split the Difference: Negotiating As If Your Life Depended On It by Chris Voss

RECOMMENDED BY: Cyrille ADJALALA, SEO Expert & Agency Owner at Cycylab

"My top book recommendation for mastering communication and PR is Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss.

Though primarily about negotiation, it's packed with insights on effective communication, understanding human behavior, and crafting compelling messages—skills that are crucial for PR. Voss's tactics, like mirroring and tactical empathy, help entrepreneurs build trust and influence in any conversation, from media interviews to client pitches.

It's a game-changer for anyone looking to level up their communication strategy."

Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products by Nir Eyal

RECOMMENDED BY: Dawson Whitfield, CEO & Co-Founder at Looka

"For tech entrepreneurs, Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products by Nir Eyal is a must-read. While not strictly a PR book, it’s invaluable for understanding how to communicate value and build engagement—key components of effective public relations and marketing in the digital age.

In the tech-driven world, communication isn’t just about what you say; it’s about how you create lasting connections with your audience. Eyal’s "Hook Model"—trigger, Action, Variable Reward, and Investment—offers a practical framework for designing products and messaging that resonate deeply. This strategy helps ensure your communication strategy ties seamlessly with your product’s ability to engage users and generate loyalty.

This book is especially relevant for SaaS businesses that aim to make complex technologies accessible and relatable. Crafting PR campaigns that align with the "Trigger" phase—like addressing customer pain points directly—ensures your message is both compelling and actionable.

"Hooked" bridges the gap between product design and PR, showing how well-crafted communication strategies can foster trust, engagement, and growth. It’s a forward-thinking choice for entrepreneurs looking to master communication in industries where innovation moves fast, and standing out is vital."

Never Eat Alone: And Other Secrets to Success, One Relationship at a Time by Keith Ferrazzi

RECOMMENDED BY: Alex Chaidaroglou, Director at Altosight

"My book of choice is Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi.

In the past, networking felt to me like a chore, but genuine relationships can make all the difference in entrepreneurship and PR.

“Never Eat Alone” focuses on building real connections that last, matter and help your business grow in the long run. It’s not just about knowing the right people; it’s about being someone they actually want to hear from.

For entrepreneurs, the advice here endures because human interaction and trust never go out of style. Ferrazzi gives practical tips on reaching out, following up and staying on people’s radars without feeling fake.

The main lesson? Relationships are at the core of good PR. Show up genuinely, add value and keep the communication flowing."

Winning through Intimidation: How to Be the Victor, Not the Victim, in Business and in Life by Robert Ringer

RECOMMENDED BY: Byron Marr, Founder at ProfitSpring

"Book Title: Winning Through Intimidation by Robert Ringer (Don't let the title fool you, it's not about intimidating others, it's rather the opposite)

Clear, strategic communication and effective PR are essential for any business, of any size.

They help shape brand perception, build trust among stakeholders, and create opportunities for growth and collaboration.

These days, if you're a skilled communicator you can position yourself as a thought leader, which establishes credibility with audiences, and differentiate your offerings in crowded markets.

Entrepreneurs who can master communication will find they get media attention easily and can control the narrative around their brand (whether it be personal or company)

Why I chose this book

This classic (from 1974) offers practical, enduring lessons in negotiating power dynamics and maintaining composure under pressure. The insights in this book are timeless and remain relevant because they provide entrepreneurs with the mindset and tactics needed to hold their ground, assert their value, and communicate effectively even in high stakes scenarios.

Here's the key takeaways:

• Understand the underlying psychology of business encounters and learn to appear confident. even if you're not

• Develop strategies to negotiate and communicate from a position of strength.

• Learn to protect your own interests and define the narrative, preventing others from doing it for you.

• Leverage the art of perception and messaging to stand out, influence key stakeholders, and unlock growth opportunities."

Inclusify: The Power of Uniqueness and Belonging to Build Innovative Teams by Stefanie K. Johnson

RECOMMENDED BY: Naomi Clarke, Head of HR & Chief Diversity Officer at Flingster

"I recommend Inclusify: The Power of Uniqueness and Belonging to Build Innovative Teams by Stefanie K. Johnson

Communication and public relations are foundational for entrepreneurial success because they shape how businesses articulate their values, connect with stakeholders, and build trust. For entrepreneurs navigating today’s diverse and interconnected world, understanding how to engage authentically and include varied audiences is crucial for PR and sustainable growth.

"Inclusify" by Stefanie K. Johnson is a must-read for entrepreneurs who want to master the art of inclusive communication. Johnson, an African American expert in organizational psychology, provides a framework for fostering environments where individuality and belonging coexist. This balance is vital for entrepreneurs seeking to build teams and brands that resonate widely. The book offers actionable advice on avoiding common communication pitfalls that alienate audiences and instead crafting messages that unite and inspire.

Key takeaways include strategies for recognizing unconscious biases, adapting leadership styles to encourage innovation, and using inclusive language that appeals across demographics. Entrepreneurs will gain tools to communicate their vision authentically, strengthening both internal team dynamics and external brand perception. Inclusify is not just a PR guide—it’s a playbook for building a business that thrives on diverse perspectives and shared purpose."

Several Short Sentences About Writing by Verlyn Klinkenborg

RECOMMENDED BY: Alex Lindley, Founder at Law Firm Content Pros

"Strong communication and PR skills are essential for entrepreneurial success. This is how you convince customers, investors, key players, and others to trust you and, perhaps more importantly, share in your vision.

That's why my book recommendation is Several Short Sentences About Writing by Verlyn Klinkenborg.

I've read a TON of books about writing and communicating, but this one stuck with me most. I think of it nearly every time I write a sentence. And entrepreneurs will find themselves writing a lot more than they may realize.

The book's value comes from its ability to help you see just how many unnecessary words pollute and dilute our communications — and how to flip that problem around and give yourself an edge with direct, crystal-clear communication."

Trustworthy: How the Smartest Brands Beat Cynicism and Bridge the Trust Gap by Margot Bloomstein

RECOMMENDED BY: Thomas Franklin, Founder at Swapped.com

"A book that I always suggest to business owners for getting better at communications and PR is Trustworthy: How the Smartest Brands Beat Cynicism and Bridge the Trust Gap by Margot Bloomstein (2021).

I know first-hand how essential trust is in establishing relationships with customers, investors, and partners — especially in industries where skepticism is high. The book is a new model for building trust with direct, consistent, and genuine communication in an increasingly competitive, fast-moving market.

And the book is very practical! Brands can harness storytelling and transparency to build emotional connections, despite customer resistance, Bloomstein explains. The book, for instance, got me thinking differently about how we communicate our terms of service and onboarding content, making it approachable and not too technical. It’s jam-packed with new, relevant examples and actionable tips for entrepreneurs that entrepreneurs can apply today. I’d say it’s a must-read for any leader looking to build credibility and lasting trust in an environment where trust has become the new competitive advantage."

Influence Is Your Superpower: How to Get What You Want Without Compromising Who You Are by Zoe Chance

RECOMMENDED BY: Tyler Hull, Owner and Communications Manager at Modern Exterior

"I really like Influence is Your Superpower by Zoe Chance (2022). I think that this book does a very innovative and very practical kind of thinking on influence: how to resonate and persuade.

When it comes to a founder’s success, being influential will make the difference from pitching to investors to team culture. I’m actually pretty impressed by how it focuses on ethical and empathic persuasion, giving you tools that can be easily accessed by the present generation of transparency-loving and trust-seekers.

The most important lesson in the book is the "Magic Question," a sly but powerful way to facilitate teamwork and solve challenges. For instance, rather than pushing someone to purchase something or convince them, the book recommends framing the discussion around what could make an idea or solution work for them. This turns the situation from conflict to creation and can be transformative in a business context. Chance also dives into the psychology of choice, which enables business owners to better understand the minds and impulses behind decision-making."

Fascinate: How to Make Your Brand Impossible to Resist by Sally Hogshead

RECOMMENDED BY: Ciaran Connolly, Director at ProfileTree

"I am not a PR by trade - but digital PR has become very important to our industry over the last 2-3 years, hence reading all I can. One I recently read and found very useful was Fascinate by Sally Hogshead. The book centres on seven key "Fascination Advantages": Innovation, Passion, Power, Prestige, Mystique, Alert, and Trust. When it comes to practical application, the book has a system called the "Fascinate Test" that allows entrepreneurs to measure how others see you. It focuses on the ability to earn and keep attention as a competitive advantage.

Key Points:

• Focuses on authentic uniqueness rather than trying to fit in

• Provides the Brand Fascination Profile tool for identifying your natural advantages

• Emphasises message clarity before channel selection

• Offers actionable steps for brand implementation

The book looks at current marketing challenges by helping brands stand out in a very distracted marketplace. It provides a practical system that can be used for almost any strategy or message. The approach focuses on leveraging your unique qualities rather than competing on traditional metrics."

The Fall of Advertising and the Rise of PR by Al Ries and Laura Ries

RECOMMENDED BY: Daniel Vasilevski, Director & Owner at Bright Force Electrical

"The book that I recommend to entrepreneurs looking to master communications and PR is The Fall of Advertising and the Rise of PR by Al Ries and Laura Ries. This book clearly explains how trust is built through public relations rather than traditional advertising. The authors highlight how PR creates credibility by focusing on storytelling, third-party endorsements, and organic conversations, which are far more effective than trying to push a message through ads.

This shift is essential for entrepreneurs because it is consistent with how people make decisions. They trust what they hear from unbiased sources far more than direct advertising. The book provides real-world examples that show why PR should be at the core of your communications strategy if you want to build connections with your audience."

100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People (Voices That Matter) by Susan Weinschenk

RECOMMENDED BY: Olivia Tapper, COO & Co-Founder at DTC SEO Agency

"I recommend 100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know about People by Susan M. Weinschenk, Ph.D.

Although this is a book for UX, communication happens visually today - it can be from having a presentation for your boss to infographics in the media. It's important to grab attention visually and keep it. Understanding the visual communication is as important as the written or oral.

The book is an easy read with tangible items, going through the psychological principles related to design and user experience."

Trust Me, I'm Lying: Confessions of a Media Manipulator by Ryan Holiday

RECOMMENDED BY: John Walker, Founder at AI AnsweringService

"As an entrepreneur, communication and public relations are key skills to master. In today's digital age, it's crucial to know how to effectively and authentically engage with your audience and build a brand. The book I'd recommend to any entrepreneur looking to level up their PR game is Trust Me, I'm Lying by Ryan Holiday.

It's an eye-opening look at how news and information spreads online, and how you can ethically leverage the system to get your message out. Holiday exposes tricks of the trade that manipulative marketers use, then teaches you how to flip those tactics to spread your own ideas. Any entrepreneur who reads this will walk away with a deeper understanding of online communication and practical tips to build awareness for their brand.

Mastering modern PR requires a nuanced balance of strategy and ethics. 'Trust Me, I'm Lying' helps entrepreneurs strike that balance and make an authentic impact."

Your Next Five Moves: Master the Art of Business Strategy by Patrick Bet-David

RECOMMENDED BY: Olivar Brandrup, Director of SEO at Neurogan

"Success as an entrepreneur is all about strategy. That’s why one of my must-read and often recommended books for entrepreneurs is Your Next Five Moves: Master the Art of Business Strategy.

Author Patrick Bet-David goes in hard on the importance of being clear on what your strategy is, and the steps you need to take to put that strategy in place. Bet-David also stresses the importance of keeping a level, clear head as a business owner and how your mindset can impact your success.

Your Next Five Moves: Master the Art of Business Strategy has gained praise from business leaders and celebrities who found it helpful. Bet-David’s own personal story is riveting. His is the epitome of a rags-to-riches story and it’s an inspiring read for any entrepreneur, seasoned or just starting out."

Five Stars: The Communication Secrets to Get from Good to Great by Carmine Gallo

RECOMMENDED BY: Ryan McClellan, Marketing Manager at CharacterCounter.com

"“Ideas don’t sell themselves!” — and this is why every entrepreneur requires excellent communication skills. This is my number one learning from one of my favorite classics, by Carmine Gallo known as Five Stars. Mastering the ancient art of persuasion starts at the point when you start to communicate and not just speak!

As a marketer and creative head, having ideas is a thing, however, maintaining coordination between teams and getting these ideas turned into a campaign or a system, has been tremendously hard. The reason for this is improper communication and hesitation among teams, and I ought to delete that within our business (and my marketing team specifically).

Gallo briefly talks about Aristotle’s three-part formula for persuasion that revolves around just three elements. From the great founding members to successful entrepreneurs, everyone must adhere to ethos (credibility), pathos (emotions), and logos (logic). This book brings in great examples of big companies within the market, how they prefer their communication flow and also reveals the hacks of dealing with cross-departmental teams.

Aligning this with today’s perspective, ensuring coordination between remote teams carries much weight. Again, what’s the prerequisite to this? Great communication. Managing my remote marketing team at Character Counter is easier than ever. This is because when you start to be mindful about how you communicate, including the three above-mentioned elements, it acts as the ace card to your success."

Hook Point: How to Stand Out in a 3-Second World by Brendan Kane

RECOMMENDED BY: Michael Sawyer, Operations Director at UltimateKilimanjaro.com

"We are all trying our best to stand out in today's fast-paced digital society, and it can be hard to keep up with all of the trends. For any small business owner or marketer, i would have to recommend the fairly new Hook Point: How to Stand Out in a 3-Second World by Brendan Kane.

This book really looks past what has been and what is coming and gets to the heart of the challenge we all face: how do you grab someone’s attention when the average person is bombarded by thousands of messages every day, and you’ve got about three seconds to make an impression?

Brendan Kane is no stranger to making an impression having worked with big names such as Taylor Swift and Rihanna, as well as some pretty major companies like MTV - so it feels like you can trust his voice in this gigantic market place, because he has personally cut through that noise.

What I love about the book is how it balances theory with practical, actionable advice and isn't just a reiteration of the same tools we've heard over and over again. Instead, it challenges you to develop a brand ‘hook’ that does the challenging through short and sharp eye catching content, because the worst place you can be right now, is on the fence.

If you've got the drive to change things up and make bold changes, this is the perfect marketing book to get you inspired and prepared"

Life's a Pitch by Roger Mavity

RECOMMENDED BY: Sisse Marie, Psychotherapist at Neurogan Health

"I remember picking up Life’s a pitch, sceptical of what i would find inside (lets be honest, we always feel a bit sceptical when we pick up one of these books) but I was really impressed, at its heart - the simplest message possible, but inside packed with useful insights and approaches that make you wonder what you had been doing before reading it.

Written by Stephen Bayley & Roger Mavity, the 2008 guide feels timeless, because it steps outside of the natural trendy subject and speaks about something that is its heart is human, and as psychotherapist, I think that’s part of its magic. It just all applicable in the world of comms, but also a greater lesson on how we can live our lives.

Despite what might be perceived, there is a power and authenticity in selling yourself, providing you have the conviction to do it authentically. Life’s a Pitch isn’t about selling yourself to suit somebody else’s need, it is about selling your brilliant qualities in a way that makes sure you are litstened to. We’ve all got a story to tell, and I think this book for marketers, and anybody else, just inspires you with some of the best ways to do it."

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