{"id":177612,"date":"2025-10-08T19:00:03","date_gmt":"2025-10-09T00:00:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/?p=177612"},"modified":"2025-10-08T19:02:09","modified_gmt":"2025-10-09T00:02:09","slug":"best-marketing-books","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/best-marketing-books\/","title":{"rendered":"I Asked 20+ Marketers for Their Best Marketing Books. Here\u2019s the 15 Books They Recommend"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"intro-txt\"><!-- notionvc: b1be76a2-163d-4515-a3fd-0960691dab11 -->What are the best marketing books?<\/div><!-- notionvc: b1be76a2-163d-4515-a3fd-0960691dab11 -->\n<p>To find out, I asked the speakers and panelists at Ahrefs Evolve, our conference in San Diego from October 13-15, which books they actually read and recommend.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"2048\" height=\"1420\" class=\"wp-image-191907\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ahrefs-evolve-speakers-1.jpg\" alt=\"Ahrefs Evolve speakers\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ahrefs-evolve-speakers-1.jpg 2048w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ahrefs-evolve-speakers-1-613x425.jpg 613w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ahrefs-evolve-speakers-1-768x533.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ahrefs-evolve-speakers-1-1536x1065.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\"><\/p>\n<p>Here are their recommendations:<\/p>\n<div class=\"recommendation\"><div class=\"recommendation-title\">Get Your Evolve Ticket Now<\/div><div class=\"recommendation-content\">Want to meet the people who recommended these? Join us at Ahrefs Evolve in San Diego this October 13-15.\n<p>Tickets are selling out fast, so grab your Ahrefs Evolve ticket before they\u2019re gone.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefsevolve.com\/\">Get your ticket here<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<div class=\"intro-tok\" id=\"intro_tok\" style=\"display:none;\"><div class=\"intro-title\">Contents<\/div><a href=\"#\" class=\"expand-dots\"><span><\/span><span><\/span><span><\/span><\/a><\/div><!-- notionvc: 6a56276e-3791-4c2b-a92e-d03f1b13e6a5 -->\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"1. The Lean Startup\" data-section=\"lean-startup\">\n<h2><a id=\"post-191896-_ceobpcmvl4p8\"><\/a>1. The Lean Startup: How Today\u2019s Entrepreneurs Use Continuous Innovation to Create Radically Successful Businesses<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><!-- notionvc: 50929ad4-c1cf-4c94-88a6-de4e14bc8412 -->\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-191909\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/travis-tallent-holding-lean-startup-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Travis Tallent holding Lean Startup\" width=\"527\" height=\"702\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/travis-tallent-holding-lean-startup-1.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/travis-tallent-holding-lean-startup-1-319x425.jpeg 319w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/travis-tallent-holding-lean-startup-1-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/travis-tallent-holding-lean-startup-1-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 527px) 100vw, 527px\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>Author<\/strong>: Eric&nbsp;Ries<\/p>\n<p><strong>Recommended by<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/travistallent\">Travis Tallent<\/a><\/p>\n<p>This is the blueprint for building results with fast feedback. Treat campaigns like experiments, ship smaller bets, measure learning, and iterate. It turns \u201cfailed\u201d ideas into fuel for the next&nbsp;win.<\/p>\n<p>As Travis says:<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"small\"><div class=\"quote-content\">\u201cIt\u2019s not your typical marketing book, but it makes you think in terms of systems and process and instills that progress is better than perfection. I use its methods every day in my role at Brainlabs.\u201d<\/div><\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"2. Hidden Potential\" data-section=\"hidden-potential\">\n<h2><a id=\"post-191896-_a99kpjichhiu\"><\/a>2. Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-191911\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/hidden-potential-book-1.jpg\" alt=\"Hidden Potential book\" width=\"404\" height=\"610\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/hidden-potential-book-1.jpg 662w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/hidden-potential-book-1-281x425.jpg 281w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 404px) 100vw, 404px\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>Author<\/strong>: Adam&nbsp;Grant<\/p>\n<p><strong>Recommended by<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/heatherphysioc\/\">Heather Physioc<\/a><\/p>\n<p>In Hidden Potential, Adam Grant challenges the idea of \u201cnatural talent.\u201d He argues that success comes from habits, feedback loops, and environments that stretch your abilities: lessons every marketer can apply to creative and professional growth.<\/p>\n<p>It\u2019s exactly why Heather recommends the&nbsp;book:<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"small\"><div class=\"quote-content\">It\u2019s not a marketing book, but the one I read most recently that improved how I think about my work and approach problem-solving was Hidden Potential by Adam Grant, which argues that success is less about innate talent and more about how far you can stretch yourself by focusing on character skills, learning habits and systems that support growth. For digital marketers, it\u2019s a reminder that long-term improvement comes from experimentation, feedback loops, and building a growth environment rather than banking solely on \u201cnatural gift.\u201d<\/div><\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"3. SEO Book for Beginners\" data-section=\"seo-book\">\n<h2><a id=\"post-191896-_e1dmtuekc3gf\"><\/a>3. <a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/seo\/book\">SEO Book for Beginners<\/a><\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><!-- notionvc: 7ccb46d4-bdc4-4c0a-a7d5-37498d57fab5 -->\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-191914\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/patrick-holding-ahrefs-seo-book-for-beginners-1.jpg\" alt=\"Patrick holding Ahrefs SEO book for beginners\" width=\"465\" height=\"620\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/patrick-holding-ahrefs-seo-book-for-beginners-1.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/patrick-holding-ahrefs-seo-book-for-beginners-1-319x425.jpg 319w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/patrick-holding-ahrefs-seo-book-for-beginners-1-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/patrick-holding-ahrefs-seo-book-for-beginners-1-1152x1536.jpg 1152w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 465px) 100vw, 465px\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>Author<\/strong>: Ahrefs<\/p>\n<p><strong>Recommended by<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/patrickstox\/\">Patrick Stox<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Patrick\u2019s pick is close to home. The Ahrefs SEO Book is our comprehensive guide to mastering modern SEO, from fundamentals to advanced link-building and technical strategies.<\/p>\n<p>As Patrick puts&nbsp;it:<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"small\"><div class=\"quote-content\">\u201cMarketing is just another form of sales. And SEO is one of the most scalable sales channels there is. This book shows you how to use it properly.\u201d<\/div><\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"4. Influence\" data-section=\"influence-book\">\n<h2><a id=\"post-191896-_qi4e778cb5u\"><\/a>4. Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><!-- notionvc: 55e10b49-b2b2-48ae-8d37-bb3cc215f58e -->\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-191916\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/influence-book-1.jpg\" alt=\"Influence book\" width=\"410\" height=\"622\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/influence-book-1.jpg 659w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/influence-book-1-280x425.jpg 280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 410px) 100vw, 410px\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>Author<\/strong>: Robert Cialdini<\/p>\n<p><strong>Recommended by<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/dawoodbukhari\">Dawood Bukhari<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Few books have influenced marketers more than Cialdini\u2019s Influence. It\u2019s the cornerstone of understanding why people say \u201cyes,\u201d from reciprocity to social proof.<\/p>\n<p>Dawood, who\u2019s publishing a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B0FSDWNH1Z\">book on Digital PR<\/a>, uses these principles daily in his&nbsp;work.<\/p>\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"5. Product-Led SEO\" data-section=\"product-led-seo\">\n<h2><a id=\"post-191896-_ckvldje7e9wx\"><\/a>5. Product-Led SEO: The Why Behind Building Your Organic Growth Strategy<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-191918\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/product-led-seo-book-1.png\" alt=\"Product-led SEO book\" width=\"393\" height=\"579\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/product-led-seo-book-1.png 679w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/product-led-seo-book-1-289x425.png 289w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 393px) 100vw, 393px\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>Author<\/strong>: Eli Schwartz<\/p>\n<p><strong>Recommended by<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/sophie-brannon-081bb294\/\">Sophie Brannon<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Eli Schwartz reframes SEO not as a checklist, but as a strategic growth function tied directly to business outcomes. It\u2019s a must-read for marketers who want to think beyond rankings and connect search with company strategy.<\/p>\n<p>Sophie says:<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"small\"><div class=\"quote-content\">This book takes you outside of what gets ingrained in you as a junior SEO as what is \u201cbest practice\u201d and helps you to think more commercially particularly in SaaS \/ lead gen spaces. I always get my junior team to read this pretty early on to working with us so they think more about the business needs than just what\u2019s right for&nbsp;SEO.<\/div><\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"6. Leading Change\" data-section=\"leading-change\">\n<h2><a id=\"post-191896-_c0vasdovue8v\"><\/a>6. Leading Change<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><!-- notionvc: 6575d002-2c9e-40cb-ba89-46a182136292 -->\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-191919\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/leading-change-book-1.jpg\" alt=\"Leading Change book\" width=\"347\" height=\"528\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/leading-change-book-1.jpg 657w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/leading-change-book-1-279x425.jpg 279w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 347px) 100vw, 347px\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>Author<\/strong>: John Kotter<\/p>\n<p><strong>Recommended by<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/chris-schweppe-72a50a\/\">Chris Schweppe<\/a><\/p>\n<p>John Kotter\u2019s management classic is about transformation and what it really takes to make change stick. For marketers leading teams or implementing new processes, it\u2019s a timeless guide to creating momentum and aligning people around a shared vision.<\/p>\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"7. Blue Ocean Strategy\" data-section=\"blue-ocean\">\n<h2><a id=\"post-191896-_kw1r86der6uk\"><\/a>7. Blue Ocean Strategy: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make the Competition Irrelevant<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><!-- notionvc: 7e43096e-8451-4b06-90e0-d10a29fe8411 -->\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-191920\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/blue-ocean-strategy-book-1.jpg\" alt=\"Blue Ocean Strategy book\" width=\"499\" height=\"752\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/blue-ocean-strategy-book-1.jpg 850w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/blue-ocean-strategy-book-1-282x425.jpg 282w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/blue-ocean-strategy-book-1-768x1157.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 499px) 100vw, 499px\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>Author<\/strong>: W. Chan Kim &amp; Ren\u00e9e Mauborgne<\/p>\n<p><strong>Recommended by<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/carrieroseballoch\/\">Carrie Rose<\/a>, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/brandonlincolnhendricks\/\">Brandon Lincoln Hendricks<\/a><\/p>\n<p><em>Blue Ocean Strategy<\/em> is a manifesto for differentiation. It\u2019s about finding opportunities where competitors don\u2019t, and creating demand instead of fighting for&nbsp;it.<\/p>\n<p>As Brandon says:<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"small\"><div class=\"quote-content\">Most marketers are stuck fighting in red oceans: competing on the same tactics, same channels, same tired playbook. This book taught me to create new market space instead of battling for scraps in saturated ones. It\u2019s why I went from executing SEO strategies to building AI-powered systems that amplify what great SEO already does. I\u2019m not just optimizing anymore. I\u2019m building the infrastructure that makes optimization scale without limits.\n<p>This book is strategy for people who want to lead markets, not follow them. It\u2019s about creating value where competition becomes irrelevant.<\/p><\/div><\/blockquote>\n<p>Carrie agrees:<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"small\"><div class=\"quote-content\">The question \u201cis it better to be better, or better to be different\u201d was answered for me. Being in a blue ocean, with a clear stand out differentiator made me think about marketing and business in a whole new&nbsp;light.<\/div><\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"8. Innovation and Entrepreneurship\" data-section=\"innovation-entrepreneurship\">\n<h2><a id=\"post-191896-_o34toq35somk\"><\/a>8. Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Practice and Principles<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><!-- notionvc: 6772dad5-4e7a-451c-8e7d-145e58e116af -->\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-191921\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/innovation-and-entrepreneurship-book-1.jpg\" alt=\"Innovation and Entrepreneurship book\" width=\"471\" height=\"717\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/innovation-and-entrepreneurship-book-1.jpg 657w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/innovation-and-entrepreneurship-book-1-279x425.jpg 279w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 471px) 100vw, 471px\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>Author<\/strong>: Peter Drucker<\/p>\n<p><strong>Recommended by<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/markwschaefer\/\">Mark Schaefer<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Peter Drucker\u2019s Innovation and Entrepreneurship may be decades old, but its lessons still apply: innovation isn\u2019t luck; it\u2019s a process. Drucker\u2019s thinking has shaped generations of marketers, entrepreneurs, and leaders.<\/p>\n<p>As Mark&nbsp;says:<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"small\"><div class=\"quote-content\">\u201cAn older book but his advice that should be embedded in every organization.\u201d<\/div><\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"9. Double Double\" data-section=\"double-double\">\n<h2><a id=\"post-191896-_8098qsmnsz4u\"><\/a>9. Double Double: How to Double Your Revenue and Profit in 3 Years or&nbsp;Less<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><!-- notionvc: 80148879-6956-4979-8d3f-e4bda88ff252 -->\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-191922\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/james-norquay-holding-double-double-1.jpg\" alt=\"James Norquay holding Double Double\" width=\"567\" height=\"756\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/james-norquay-holding-double-double-1.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/james-norquay-holding-double-double-1-319x425.jpg 319w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/james-norquay-holding-double-double-1-768x1024.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/james-norquay-holding-double-double-1-1152x1536.jpg 1152w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 567px) 100vw, 567px\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>Author<\/strong>: Cameron Herold<\/p>\n<p><strong>Recommended by<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/norquay\/\">James Norquay<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Cameron Herold\u2019s Double Double is equal parts playbook and pep talk. It\u2019s full of practical, actionable ways to grow a business, from leadership habits to marketing strategy.<\/p>\n<p>Here\u2019s why James recommends the&nbsp;book:<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"small\"><div class=\"quote-content\">It covers business growth, revenue generation and leadership tips, all very actionable advice. I went to dinner with the author Cameron in Sydney this year. It was a valuable experience.<\/div><\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"10. The 80\/20 Principle\" data-section=\"80-20\">\n<h2><a id=\"post-191896-_57c2og6jwwzq\"><\/a>10. The 80\/20 Principle: The Secret to Achieving More with&nbsp;Less<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><!-- notionvc: 77988352-6990-4307-b437-e07ab902b071 -->\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-191923\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/80-20-principle-book-1.jpg\" alt=\"80\/20 Principle book\" width=\"389\" height=\"599\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/80-20-principle-book-1.jpg 649w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/80-20-principle-book-1-276x425.jpg 276w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 389px) 100vw, 389px\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>Author<\/strong>: Richard Koch<\/p>\n<p><strong>Recommended by<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/madhavbhandari\/\">Madhav Bhandari<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Koch\u2019s <em>80\/20 Principle<\/em> is simple but powerful: most results come from a small number of actions. For marketers, it\u2019s a reminder to focus energy on the campaigns, channels, and ideas that truly move the needle.<\/p>\n<p>As Madhav puts&nbsp;it:<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"small\"><div class=\"quote-content\">It taught me to operate creatively with whatever I have in any situation, to work smart rather than hard, and to focus on the \u201cbig rocks\u201d so the small ones take care of themselves.\n<p>In marketing, that means identifying the 20% of initiatives that drive 80% of the results. The 20% of SEO tactics that move 80% of the needle. The 20% of hires who deliver 80% of the impact. Even the 20% of my day where I get 80% of my productivity.<\/p>\n<p>That way of thinking has helped me focus my energy in the right places and kept me from ever feeling overwhelmed\u2014whether in marketing or in&nbsp;life.<\/p><\/div><\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"11. The Copywriter\u2019s Handbook\" data-section=\"copywriters-handbook\">\n<h2><a id=\"post-191896-_wgpx28m1zqzp\"><\/a>11. The Copywriter\u2019s Handbook: A Step-By-Step Guide to Writing Copy That&nbsp;Sells<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><!-- notionvc: d780286a-0d85-4209-8ad3-32d9e9201ea3 -->\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-191924\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/copywriters-handbook-book-1.jpg\" alt=\"Copywriter's Handbook book\" width=\"476\" height=\"715\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/copywriters-handbook-book-1.jpg 666w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/copywriters-handbook-book-1-283x425.jpg 283w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 476px) 100vw, 476px\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>Author<\/strong>: Robert Bly<\/p>\n<p><strong>Recommended by<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/cyrusshepard\/\">Cyrus Shepard<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Robert Bly\u2019s classic is still one of the best introductions to persuasive writing. It\u2019s straightforward, timeless, and filled with examples you can apply to any kind of marketing copy.<\/p>\n<p>Cyrus puts it simply:<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"small\"><div class=\"quote-content\">\u201cIf you can write well, you\u2019ll do well in marketing.\u201d<\/div><\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"12. Obviously Awesome\" data-section=\"obviously-awesome\">\n<h2><a id=\"post-191896-_mjor0v6l5krs\"><\/a>12. Obviously Awesome: How to Nail Product Positioning So Customers Get It, Buy It, Love&nbsp;It<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><!-- notionvc: 64ce9e30-d5d9-4b51-bb08-3c04b575b7f7 -->\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-191925\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/obviously-awesome-book-1.jpg\" alt=\"Obviously Awesome book\" width=\"439\" height=\"679\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/obviously-awesome-book-1.jpg 647w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/obviously-awesome-book-1-275x425.jpg 275w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 439px) 100vw, 439px\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>Author<\/strong>: April Dunford<\/p>\n<p><strong>Recommended by<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/jhtscherck\/\">John-Henry Scherck<\/a><\/p>\n<p>April Dunford demystifies positioning and makes it practical. Her framework shows how to communicate your product\u2019s value so clearly that customers instantly understand why it matters. It\u2019s a must-read for anyone working in SaaS or B2B marketing.<\/p>\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"13. Zero to One\" data-section=\"zero-one\">\n<h2><a id=\"post-191896-_uiy7les8uf8u\"><\/a>13. Zero to One: Notes on Startups, or How to Build the Future<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div><!-- notionvc: db607d3e-d07a-4c22-91ed-81e1af0b1082 -->\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-191926\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/zero-to-one-book-1.jpg\" alt=\"Zero to One book\" width=\"473\" height=\"709\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/zero-to-one-book-1.jpg 667w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/zero-to-one-book-1-283x425.jpg 283w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 473px) 100vw, 473px\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>Author<\/strong>: Peter Thiel, Blake Masters<\/p>\n<p><strong>Recommended by<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/kevinindig\/\">Kevin Indig<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Thiel\u2019s Zero to One isn\u2019t just about startups; it\u2019s about thinking differently. It challenges readers to create something truly original rather than just competing on the same ideas, channels, or strategies.<\/p>\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"14. Where Good Ideas Come From\" data-section=\"good-ideas\">\n<h2><a id=\"post-191896-_d9e9c7eyeid1\"><\/a>14. Where Good Ideas Come From: The Natural History of Innovation<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-191927\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ryan-holding-where-good-ideas-come-from-book-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Ryan holding where good ideas come from book\" width=\"639\" height=\"852\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ryan-holding-where-good-ideas-come-from-book-1.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ryan-holding-where-good-ideas-come-from-book-1-319x425.jpeg 319w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ryan-holding-where-good-ideas-come-from-book-1-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/ryan-holding-where-good-ideas-come-from-book-1-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 639px) 100vw, 639px\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>Author<\/strong>: Steven Johnson<\/p>\n<p><strong>Recommended by<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/uk.linkedin.com\/in\/thinkingslow\">Ryan Law<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Johnson explores where creativity really comes from, and why the best ideas emerge from connection, not isolation. It\u2019s a book about the environments that make innovation possible.<\/p>\n<p>Ryan says:<\/p>\n<blockquote class=\"small\"><div class=\"quote-content\">So much of marketing is trying to harness creativity and create novel, interesting things that help promote your product. This is the best book I\u2019ve read on actually systematizing creativity and learning how to be creative on demand. My favourite quote: *\u201cThe trick to having good ideas is not to sit around in glorious isolation. The trick is to get more parts on the&nbsp;table.\u201d<\/div><\/blockquote>\n<div class=\"post-nav-link clearfix\" id=\"section1\"><a class=\"subhead-anchor\" data-tip=\"tooltip__copielink\" rel=\"#section1\"><svg width=\"19\" height=\"19\" viewBox=\"0 0 14 14\" style><g fill=\"none\" fill-rule=\"evenodd\"><path d=\"M0 0h14v14H0z\" \/><path d=\"M7.45 9.887l-1.62 1.621c-.92.92-2.418.92-3.338 0a2.364 2.364 0 0 1 0-3.339l1.62-1.62-1.273-1.272-1.62 1.62a4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.885 5.884l1.62-1.62L7.45 9.886zM5.527 5.135L7.17 3.492c.92-.92 2.418-.92 3.339 0 .92.92.92 2.418 0 3.339L8.866 8.473l1.272 1.273 1.644-1.643A4.161 4.161 0 1 0 5.897 2.22L4.254 3.863l1.272 1.272zm-.66 3.998a.749.749 0 0 1 0-1.06l2.208-2.206a.749.749 0 1 1 1.06 1.06L5.928 9.133a.75.75 0 0 1-1.061 0z\" style \/><\/g><\/svg><\/a><div class=\"link-text\" data-anchor=\"15. Human Centered Marketing\" data-section=\"human-marketing\">\n<h2><a id=\"post-191896-_uxm2zqjya0z0\"><\/a>15. Human Centered Marketing<\/h2>\n<\/div><\/div>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-191928\" src=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/devin-bramhall-holding-human-centered-marketing-bo-1.jpeg\" alt=\"Devin Bramhall holding Human-Centered marketing book\" width=\"640\" height=\"853\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/devin-bramhall-holding-human-centered-marketing-bo-1.jpeg 1536w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/devin-bramhall-holding-human-centered-marketing-bo-1-319x425.jpeg 319w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/devin-bramhall-holding-human-centered-marketing-bo-1-768x1024.jpeg 768w, https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/devin-bramhall-holding-human-centered-marketing-bo-1-1152x1536.jpeg 1152w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px\"><\/p>\n<p><strong>Author<\/strong>: Ashley Faus &amp; Devin Bramhall<\/p>\n<p><strong>Recommended by<\/strong>: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/devinbramhall\/\">Devin Bramhall<\/a><\/p>\n<p>Human-Centered Marketing explores a simple but powerful idea: marketing works best when it focuses on people, not funnels. It\u2019s about empathy, creativity, and building community around shared ideas.<\/p>\n<p>Devin, who co-authored the book, puts it&nbsp;best:<\/p>\n<p>\u201cGood marketing doesn\u2019t start with what you want to say. It starts with how people feel and what they&nbsp;need.\u201d<\/p>\n<h2><a id=\"post-191896-_8l00b4twszhg\"><\/a>Final thoughts<\/h2>\n<p>Rory Sutherland, Vice Chairman at Ogilvy Group, once tweeted: \u201cThe best books to read on advertising aren\u2019t about advertising.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>You can see it\u2019s true: most of the recommended books here are barely about marketing. Instead, they\u2019re about something else: business, productivity, storytelling, psychology, and statistics.<\/p>\n<p>Want to learn from our speakers in person? <a href=\"https:\/\/ahrefsevolve.com\/\">Grab your ticket to Ahrefs Evolve<\/a> and join us for three days of talks, workshops, and conversations about the future of SEO and marketing.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>To find out, I asked the speakers and panelists at Ahrefs Evolve, our conference in San Diego from October 13-15, which books they actually read and recommend. Here are their recommendations: Author: Eric&nbsp;Ries Recommended by: Travis Tallent This is the<span class=\"ellipsis\">\u2026<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"read-more\">Read more \u203a<\/div>\n<p><!-- end of .read-more --><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":146,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"wp_typography_post_enhancements_disabled":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[390],"tags":[],"coauthors":[339],"class_list":["post-177612","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-marketing","odd"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>I Asked 20+ Marketers for Their Best Marketing Books. Here\u2019s the 15 Books They Recommend<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"These are the best marketing books that influenced the work of actual practicing marketers.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/ahrefs.com\/blog\/best-marketing-books\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"I Asked 20+ Marketers for Their Best Marketing Books. 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