You know how it is with most content marketing book reviews – they’re often from:
- A) people who haven’t even touched the books
- B) others just trying to make affiliate commissions
I’ve been there, scrolling through lists of so-called “best” content marketing books only to find out that some of them aren’t even about content marketing.
And I can tell you, it’s a frustrating experience.
For this review, however, I took the matter into my own hands! With lot of determination (and a lot of coffee) I sat down in a chair and read all these Content Marketing books.
It was sometimes painful and I was getting college flashbacks. But hey, I’m not complaining!
It was also a good use of my time, and gave me some cool content marketing ideas that I can’t wait to try.
So my #1 recommendation (as of 2024) is:
1. Everybody Writes
If you search “best content marketing books” on Google, you’ll find Everybody Writes ranking almost everywhere.
And I understand why!
Everybody Writes is arguably the best book on that subject and a must-read in my opinion.
The book explores the essential aspects of content creation and marketing strategies. It offers practical tips and actionable advice to improve your writing skills and boost your content marketing efforts.
You’ll expand your content marketing knowledge by learning:
- The importance of consistency in content creation
- Strategies for effective storytelling and engaging your audience
- Tips for optimizing content for different platforms and formats
- Techniques for self-editing and refining your content
- Ways to leverage social media and digital platforms for content distribution
- The role of data and analytics in measuring content performance
And even content writing at a broad level.
It’s written by Ann Handley, a digital marketing pioneer, writer, and speaker.. Ann is the founder of MarketingProfs a marketing training and education company with over 600,000 subscribers.
Here are some key takeaways:
1. Focus on Value-Centric Content
Good content doesn’t just promote or hard sell; instead, it demonstrates how your product or service fits into people’s daily lives, addressing their needs and offering practical solutions.
For example, let’s consider a fishing gear company. Instead of simply stating, “Our equipment is easy to use,” think about what that truly means for your customers. It means they’ll spend more time fishing and less time figuring out how it works.
2. Write Consistently
In “Everybody Writes,” Ann Handley stresses the importance of writing regularly to improve your skills. But how do you decide what to write about consistently?
Ann suggests practical daily writing habits, like dividing a sheet of paper into four sections labeled as “Did, Saw, Heard, Draw.” This straightforward exercise helps you reflect on your day, jot down observations, note conversations or ideas, and even doodle anything that comes to mind.
I personally tried this method and found it very helpful. It’s an easy way to get into the habit of expressing your thoughts regularly. Plus, it adds a fun element to capturing daily events and experiences.
3. Make Your Content Simple
“No one will ever complain that you’ve made things too simple to understand,” says Handley.
In a marketing context, this means making your content simple for the customer to understand, without losing important details.
Remember to use clear language, avoid jargon, and break down complex concepts into digestible chunks.
Make sure to include visuals like graphs, diagrams, and blank space to help people understand better. When you present information clearly and simply, it’s easier to get your message across and connect with your audience on a deeper level.
In short, create quality content that addresses your audience’s questions, concerns, and pain points. That’s the most effective, reliable, and successful way to connect and engage with your audience.
Speaking of audience, let’s move on to the second-best content marketing book:
2. They Ask You Answer
Coming in at 352 pages, They Ask You Answer by Marcus Sheridan is your go-to if you’re simply looking to add content marketing into the mix to grow your business.
Jam-packed with value and tips, this content marketing book is the guide for businesses on how to create the right content to attract more potential customers and build trust and authority in your niche.
Keep in mind:
This book is for established businesses. So if you already have products or services and need help with content marketing or developing a solid content strategy, I recommend They Ask You Answer.
So here are a couple of takeaways:
1. Build Trust by Addressing Customer Questions
You see, back in the day, companies used to control the narrative. They’d tell you what you needed to know when they wanted you to know it.
But nowadays, things are different.
In fact, studies show that a whopping 70% of people make up their minds about a purchase before they even reach out to a company.
That’s right – they’ve already done their research, weighed their options, and are ready to pull the trigger.
So, what does this mean for businesses?
It means we must adapt by being transparent, open, and honest with customers. Put them first, answer their questions, and provide the knowledge they need to feel confident in their choices.
2. Start with The Most Important Subjects
According to the book, there are five specific themes that you wanna focus on when it comes to the kind of content that you’re going to create:
Pricing and Costs
Help your customer understand how much your product costs or how your pricing works – explain the factors that affect the price, like why it might be higher or lower, and make it all transparent and easy to digest.
Problems and Concerns
Customers naturally have concerns when making a purchase, especially for significant investments. It’s crucial to understand these concerns and address them head-on, providing clear explanations and context on why they may not be as big of an issue as they initially seem.
Competition and Alternatives
When we think about buying something, we often compare different choices.
Many businesses like to pretend that they’re the only choice, ignoring all competitors and avoiding discussions about any alternatives. And this is all under the assumption that customers will buy from them without looking elsewhere or doing any extra research.
Just like in the previous point, it’s important to assume that customers know about other options available. You should be upfront and clear about the different choices they have and provide all the details they need to make a decision.
So, to conclude on They Ask You Answer:
If you’re an entrepreneur, a marketer, a salesperson or really anybody else who wants to use content marketing to grow an established business.
Then I recommend that you consider picking up a copy of this book.
And now, let’s move on to the next excellent content marketing book, which is:
3. Contagious
Last year, my marketing teacher recommended this book to the class, and I have to say, it quickly became one of my all-time favorite reads. In Contagious, you’ll learn how to create content that most likely to be shared and recommended by those who consume it.
It’s more geared towards established businesses or those looking to create a brand-new product, service, or content.
Here are some key takeaways:
1. Create Social Currency
Think about why people share or recommend content – it’s often to boost their image, show off their tastes and values, or simply share something remarkable.
Your goal should be to make your content shareable in a way that makes people look good when they talk about it — this is what we call “social currency”.
The book suggests some key strategies on how to accomplish this:
- Find what makes your product or service truly remarkable. is there something novel, surprising, interesting, or extreme about it? Highlight these aspects in your content to give people a reason to share.
- Consider how you can make customers feel like insiders, by creating a sense of exclusivity or special status to foster sharing and a feeling of belonging.
2. Create Triggers
Triggers are good and natural ways to remind people about your business or cause, prompting them to talk about it. Consider linking your product or service with relevant triggers or environmental cues.
These triggers can prompt people to recall and talk about your offerings at moments when they are most likely to be interested or in need of them.
This can be the example of a water bottle designed with hourly time markers to remind you to stay hydrated throughout the day. It’s a simple design that gets people talking. When someone sees the markers and asks about them, you can share how it’s helped you stay hydrated.
This type of trigger not only benefits the individual user but also promotes the product through natural word-of-mouth referrals.
3. Tell a Good Story
Who doesn’t love a good story? It’s no secret that storytelling connects naturally with us far more than stats and numbers.
Stories simplify complex ideas and can stick with us because they engage our emotions and make us feel something.
To make people interested in sharing your business or product, your story should be clear, entertaining, and creative. It should also have depth, be easy to understand, and be easy to associate with your brand.
In Contagious, Jonah Berger shares real-life examples of companies and brands that have used storytelling to build relationships with their customers, and ultimately, drive growth.
So, to conclude Contagious:
If you’re a marketer, entrepreneur, innovator, or content creator with a smaller budget, I highly recommend that you read this book. It will show you how to make your product, service, or content spread like crazy.
And now, let’s move on to the fourth-best content marketing book, which is:
4. Content Inc.
Joe Pulizzi wrote Content Inc. and he’s one of the world’s top content marketing authorities, and the founder of three companies, including the Content Marketing Institute (CMI).
Content Inc. is a must-read for any business owner trying to build an audience and turn it into a business.
In this book, Joe lays out a simple six-step plan for content marketing success that any business can use, especially useful for those starting from the ground up.
He suggests beginning with one platform, being consistent with your message, and then expanding gradually to new channels.
So here are a couple of takeaways:
1. Discover Your Sweet Spot
Success in content marketing starts with finding your sweet spot: the combination of what you know well, what you’re good at, and what you’re really passionate about.
Begin by listing what you know well and what you’re good at. Then, think about what makes you excited and motivated – that’s your passion. It could be anything from coding to writing blog posts (like me!)
For example, entrepreneur Andy Schneider, known as “the chicken whisperer,” combined his knowledge of raising backyard chickens with his love for teaching to start a successful business educating people about backyard poultry.
The key lesson here is to take the time to understand your sweet spot and connect it with the right audience.
2. Invest in Content Marketing over Advertising
When it comes to getting your product noticed, traditional advertising doesn’t always cut it anymore. Think about it – we’re all bombarded with ads day in and day out. So, how do you stand out in a sea of commercials and billboards?
It’s what people want nowadays – unique, engaging content that speaks to them.
And it’s great news for small businesses. With content marketing, you can connect with your audience without breaking the bank. Plus, you get instant feedback to improve your offerings.
3. Use the Right Platform to Reach Your Audience
Your content should be like a magnet, drawing customers to you. But for them to find it, you need to be on the right platform.
Consider what platform suits your audience best. Is it a blog, a podcast, or maybe a YouTube channel?
Once you’ve chosen your platforms, use a content calendar to stay consistent. It helps you plan and deliver content regularly, keeping your audience interested.
Set goals for each piece of content and track their impact over time to learn and improve.
In short, content marketing can really make a difference for you. It may take a while, but if you use the right tools, have a good plan, and create content that your audience loves, you can succeed.
Now moving on to the next content marketing book on our list, which is:
5. Break Through The Noise
Break Through The Noise, by Tim Staples and Josh Young, is another really great book when it comes to creating highly shareable content, and it focuses primarily on video content. The authors are the founders of Shareability, a company responsible for some of the most popular viral videos of all time!
So if you’re interested in creating brand-building content, this book covers nine different rules for how to increase the shareability of business-related content. An absolute must-read, especially if you’re creating video content.
Here are some key takeaways:
1. Use Stories to Connect with Your Audience
When you want to get people’s attention, it’s all about making them feel something. One of the best ways to do that is by sharing stories that really get to them.
Think about those funny videos or relatable stories you see blowing up on social media every day. Those kinds of stories stick with people and they’re more likely to share them with their friends and family.
So, when you’re putting together content for your brand, think about how you can connect with your audience on an emotional level. Share stories that bring joy, spark curiosity or create surprise.
When people feel something from what you share, they’re not just looking at an ad; they’re getting pulled into a story, and that’s what makes them pay attention.
2. Go with the Flow or Stand Out
In the marketing world, you have two choices to get noticed: go with what’s already popular or do something unique that sets you apart.
Following trends means talking about things that a lot of people are interested in, like those viral videos or hot topics you see everywhere. This can help you reach a bigger audience because you’re talking about things that are already on people’s minds.
On the other hand, being unique and different can also work wonders. Sometimes, doing something unexpected or special can grab people’s attention and make them remember you.
So, when you’re planning your content marketing strategies, think about whether you want to ride the wave of what’s already popular or make a splash by doing something unique. Both approaches can work, depending on what fits best with your brand and audience.
3. Customize Your Content for Each Platform
Not all social media platforms are the same, and each one has its own quirks and preferences. For example, YouTube is great for sharing videos that teach or entertain, Facebook loves visually appealing posts, and Instagram thrives on beautiful images and stories.
So, when you’re sharing content, think about the platform you’re using and make sure your content fits well there. This means using the right format, style, and tone that resonates with the audience on that platform.
By customizing your content, you’ll not only attract more engagement but also make a stronger connection with your audience because you’re speaking their language, so to speak.
So, to conclude on Break Through The Noise:
It’s a terrific guide to see how Tim creates content that goes viral. You can get tons of value from it and then implement the nine rules when creating your content.
And now, let’s move on to the sixth best book on content marketing, which is:
6. Start with Why
I’m really glad I gave Start with Why a chance. I kept hearing about it everywhere – but I always thought Simon Sinek’s TED talk covered everything.
Turns out, I was mistaken! The book was totally worth it, and I think I’ll be revisiting it a lot in the future.
Simon really gets to the heart of why some companies and leaders thrive. It all comes down to knowing their WHY and aligning every marketing move and message with that WHY.
Here are some key takeaways:
1. Avoid Manipulative Tricks
The book talks about how content strategies can either inspire or manipulate audiences. When businesses struggle to genuinely inspire their audience, they often resort to common manipulation techniques like:
- Price drops
- Promotions
- Using fear
- Peer pressure
- Aspirational messaging
While these tactics can work in the short term, they rarely lead to loyal, repeat business from customers who engage with your business.
2. Attract Early Adopters with Your “Why”
Simon talks about this curve when trying to win over and attract customers.
Early Adopters and Innovators are crucial because they’re the first to try new products and services. They take on some risk and accept any initial flaws because they love being at the forefront of innovation.
Without them, it’s challenging to gain traction in the broader market. If you fail to connect with them or don’t have a compelling “why” behind your offerings, you might struggle to attract a broader audience.
3. Prioritize Your WHY Over Your WHAT
Apple shows us that it’s not just about selling products; it’s about sharing why you do what you do.
When Apple says, “We think differently and make beautiful, easy-to-use products,” they’re not just talking about computers – they’re talking about a mindset.
This approach doesn’t just sell gadgets; it connects with people who share those values. And that’s why Apple has such loyal customers – because they’re part of something bigger than just buying a device.
So, to conclude on Start with Why:
I highly recommend giving this book a read. It’s packed with tips on finding your “why” and applying it in your everyday business practices. You’ll learn how to come up with an inspiring vision and effectively communicate it.
Moving on to the seventh best book on content marketing, which is:
7. Epic Content Marketing
Epic Content Marketing is yet another comprehensive guide by Joe Pulizzi, the book focuses on what’s important to customers rather than on simply promoting a product.
It’s a must-read for any content marketer looking for practical tips on how to implement a content management strategy.
Here are the main key takeaways:
1. Have a Clear Content Marketing Mission
Pulizzi drives home the need for a clear content marketing mission. This keeps you on track and ensures everything you create is aligned with your brand’s goals.
Your mission should explain why you’re making content, who it’s for, and how it will help them. For example, if you sell eco-friendly products, your mission might be to teach people about sustainable living and give them tips on being more eco-friendly.
2. Know Your Audience Inside and Out
To make content that matters, you need to know your audience really well. Pulizzi suggests creating detailed profiles of your audience, including their age, interests, problems, and what kind of content they like.
This helps you make content that speaks directly to them. For instance, if you’re targeting young professionals interested in personal finance, your content should tackle their specific challenges and offer useful money management advice.
3. Tell Great Stories
Good storytelling is at the heart of great content marketing. Pulizzi shows you how to craft stories that connect with your audience and keep them interested. Stories make your content memorable and help build an emotional connection.
For example, if you’re a fitness brand, don’t just list the benefits of your products. Instead, share inspiring stories of people who’ve transformed their lives with your products. This makes your content more relatable and impactful.
So, to conclude on Epic Content Marketing:
Whether you’re looking to refine your strategy or just need some inspiration, this book is definitely worth a read. You’ll walk away with practical tips and a solid understanding of how to create content that truly connects with your audience.
Moving on to the eighth best book on content marketing, which is:
8. The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing
At just 140 pages, The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing by Al Ries and Jack Trout is a quick yet essential read for anyone looking to build a strong foundation in content marketing.
It’s a straightforward guide that prioritizes timeless principles, which always hold true, over fancy trends or buzzwords.
As you might have guessed from the title, the book covers 22 marketing laws or principles. I’ll be sharing my top three favorites, leaving the rest for you to check:
1. The Law of Leadership: Being First Matters
This law is all about the power of being the first to do something.
Think about it like this: Neil Armstrong was the first person to walk on the moon. Do you remember who was second? Exactly.
The same goes for brands. If you’re the first to introduce something new, like McDonald’s did with fast food, it gives you a strong advantage.
2. The Law of Category: Create Your Own Space
This law is like saying, “If you can’t win in someone else’s game, create your own game.”
Amazon did this by inventing online shopping. They didn’t just compete; they created a whole new way to shop, making them the leader in online retail.
3. The Law of the Mind: Perception is Key
This law is about how people see you. It’s not just about being first; it’s about being first in people’s minds.
Think about Apple. They weren’t the first computer company, but they made people see them as innovative and cool with products like the iPhone. So, it’s not just about being there first; it’s about how people think of you.
In short, content marketing can really make a difference for you. It may take a while, but if you use the right tools, have a good plan, and create content that your audience loves, you can succeed.
Now moving on to the next content marketing book on our list, which is:
9. Practical Content Strategy & Marketing
Just recently, I finished reading this book and I decided to go for the audio version this time, listening to it during multiple bus trips. It was definitely worth the time invested – and made those trips enjoyable.
So, if you’re the type who reads just one book a year, make Practical Content Strategy & Marketing that book. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
Here are the main key takeaways:
1. Define Your Content Goals
Julia starts with the basics: setting clear content goals. She emphasizes that knowing what you want to achieve with your content is crucial. Are you looking to drive traffic to your site, generate leads, or build brand awareness?
For example, if your goal is to increase website traffic, you might focus on creating SEO-friendly blog posts that attract visitors from search engines.
2. Develop a Content Calendar
One of the best pieces of advice from Julia is to use a content calendar. This helps you plan and organize your content in advance, ensuring you stay consistent and never run out of ideas. She suggests mapping out your topics for the month, setting deadlines, and sticking to a regular posting schedule.
3. Repurpose Your Content
Julia highlights the importance of getting the most mileage out of your content by repurposing it. This means taking a single piece of content and adapting it for different platforms.
For example, you could turn a blog post into a video, an infographic, and a series of social media posts. This not only saves you time but also helps you reach a wider audience by catering to different content preferences.
In short, the book is packed with real, actionable advice that you can start using right away. It’s not just theory; it’s about doing. Julia’s clear, no-nonsense style makes it easy to understand and apply her tips.
Now moving on to the final content marketing book on our list, which is:
10. Conversation Marketing
I’m really glad I gave Start with Why a chance. I kept hearing about it everywhere – but I always thought Simon Sinek’s TED talk covered everything. Turns out, there’s so much more to learn!
Here are the main key takeaways:
1. Focus on Building Relationships
Simon Sinek emphasizes how important it is to build real relationships with your audience. It’s not just about selling stuff, but about having meaningful conversations.
For example, instead of just pushing promotions on social media, try asking your audience questions, replying to their comments, and interacting with them. This helps build trust and loyalty over time.
2. Know Your Audience Inside and Out
One of Sinek’s key points is the importance of listening to your audience. He suggests paying attention to feedback, understanding their needs and concerns, and using this info to improve your products or services.
For instance, if you notice several customers mentioning the same issue with your product, address it openly and show that you’re fixing it. This not only improves your product but also shows your audience that you value their input.
3. Create Content that Starts Conversations
Sinek advises creating content that encourages your audience to talk. This means moving away from one-way communication and focusing on content that invites people to share their thoughts and opinions.
For example, instead of just posting an article, end it with a question that gets readers to comment and share their views. This not only boosts engagement but also gives you valuable insights into what your audience cares about.
So, those are the best content marketing books to invest in for 2024.
Now, you might wonder: what about the other 21 content marketing books? Keep reading:
7 Reasons Why Some Content Marketing Books Fell Short
1. Outdated Information
Most of these content marketing books are outdated. This is to be expected because Digital Marketing is a fast-moving industry. But it’s another reason why trying to learn content marketing via reading content marketing books isn’t the best path.
2. Too Much Theory
Some books were heavy on theory but lacked actionable advice. While understanding the concepts is important, it’s equally crucial to know how to apply them in real-world scenarios. These books failed to provide practical steps you can implement right away.
3. Unrealistic Promises
A few books made promises about overnight success and guaranteed results. Content marketing is a long-term strategy, and any book that suggests otherwise isn’t being honest.
4. Sales Pitches Disguised as Advice
Some books felt more like sales pitches for the authors’ services or products rather than genuine attempts to educate the reader. While it’s fine to mention your own tools or services, the primary focus should be on delivering value and knowledge.
5. Overwhelming Jargon
Some books were filled with so much industry jargon that it became a chore to read. While technical terms have their place, the best books break down complex ideas into simple, understandable language. If a book feels like it needs a translator, I rather not read it.
6. Messy and Confusing
A few books were hard to follow due to poor writing. They lacked a clear structure, making it difficult to extract valuable insights. Good books should be easy to read and well-organized, guiding you smoothly through the material.
7. Lack of Real-World Examples
Practical examples make a big difference. Books that only offer abstract ideas without showing how they work in real life can be hard to relate to. The most helpful books include case studies and real-world examples to illustrate their points.
Conclusion: Should You Learn Content Marketing by Reading Books?
I’ve gone through a ton of books, and here’s what I think:
You don’t need to read any books to get better or succeed in the content marketing field.
In fact:
It’s one of the worst ways to learn content marketing. The best way to really get good at content marketing is by getting your hands dirty. Dive in, try different strategies, and see what works.
