If You Only Read 5 Books This Year, Read These

As summer approaches, I find myself eagerly anticipating the extra time to dive into a good book. Reading has always been my go-to method for learning and growth, and I'm excited to share with you what's currently loaded on my Audible account.

Before we dive into the titles of those books in my Audible account right now, let me share a little secret with you. My approach to reading involves doubling up – I buy the hardback or paperback book and also snag the Audible version. This way, I can listen whenever I have a free moment, whether it's during my morning walk or while running errands, and then go back to reread or highlight in the actual book when I have some dedicated time.

As a small business owner, staying on top of the latest knowledge and insights is crucial. That's why I've curated a collection of books that I believe every small business owner should read. These books offer valuable lessons and perspectives that can help take your business to the next level.

1) Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will Guidara

This is my most recent read and I thoroughly enjoyed every chapter with so much to think about and apply to my own business. In "Unreasonable Hospitality," Will Guidara explores the transformative power of exceeding expectations in business and life. Through captivating stories and practical insights, Guidara demonstrates how going above and beyond can create unforgettable experiences for customers and clients alike. As a small business owner, this book will inspire you to raise the bar with your business operations and elevate your customer service to new heights.

2) Negotiation Made Simple: A Practical Guide for Solving Problems, Building Relationships, and Delivering the Deal by John Lowry

I met John last fall at a conference. He’s an attorney by trade and has a magical way of telling stories and sharing information with others. He helped me realize that negotiation is a fundamental skill for any small business owner, whether you're securing partnerships, closing deals, or resolving conflicts. In "Negotiation Made Simple" John provides a clear and actionable framework for navigating negotiations with confidence and skill. With practical strategies and real-world examples like when Captain Sully Sullenberger, had to make the decision to land US Airways Flight 1549 on the Hudson River in 2009, John empowers you to approach negotiations strategically and achieve win-win outcomes.

3) Coach Builder: How to Turn Your Expertise Into a Profitable Coaching Career by Donald Miller

I love this book and was excited to be a part of the book launch team when it was released earlier this year. Like many of you, I am always looking to leverage my expertise and experience to create profitable services and products. I am a coach. And you know what? You are a coach too! I guarantee that you have a marketable and teachable skill to share with others. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting, this book will provide you with the details on how to build and scale a coaching practice. By unlocking the power of one-on-one and group coaching, you can expand your business and reach new levels of growth.

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

This book has been on my bookshelf for years. It’s tattered and torn, but a book I rely on regularly. As we all know content creation is at the heart of modern marketing, and "Everybody Writes" is a great go-to guide for mastering the art of writing compelling content. Ann Handley shares practical tips and strategies for crafting engaging content that resonates with your audience and drives results. From blog posts to social media updates, this book will help you become a better writer and storyteller, ultimately strengthening your brand and connecting with your customers on a deeper level.

5) They Ask, You Answer: A Revolutionary Approach to Inbound Sales, Content Marketing, and Today's Digital Consumer by Marcus Sheridan

If someone asked me right now, what’s the best general marketing book out there, this book would be my recommendation because "They Ask, You Answer" helps small business owners shift their approach to sales and marketing. Marcus Sheridan challenges traditional sales tactics and advocates for a customer-centric approach centered around answering your audience's questions and providing valuable insights rather than selling. By prioritizing education and transparency, you can build trust, establish authority, and attract more leads to your business. Add this one to the top of your list.

These are just a few of the books that are currently fueling my curiosity and expanding my knowledge as a small business owner. Each one offers unique perspectives and practical strategies that can help you navigate the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship. I hope you’ll dive into each of these titles and many more this summer. 

If you find yourself needing a little help with any of these marketing tactics, schedule a free 30-minute consultation with us today, and let's discuss how The Marketing Concierge can help.