The Top 10 Marketing & Business Books for Entrepreneurs and Students

So.. Marketing and business books.. where do we begin! In the fast-paced world of business and marketing, knowledge isn’t just power — it’s a competitive edge. Whether you’re a startup founder, seasoned executive, or creative marketer, staying sharp means constantly evolving with new ideas, strategies, and perspectives.

That’s why we’ve curated this list of the top 10 marketing and business books that are shaping how the world builds, sells, and scales in 2025. And yes — our very own title, “WTF is Marketing?!” by Dabrando, sits proudly at the top.

Let’s dive in.

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1. WTF is Marketing?! – by Dabrando

The game-changing handbook for modern brands

This isn’t your typical textbook. “WTF is Marketing?!” is Dabrando’s bold, no-fluff guide to modern marketing strategy. Built for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small businesses tired of confusing jargon and overpriced gurus, this book cuts through the noise with real talk on branding, social media, content, funnels, and ROI.

From building trust with audiences to launching campaigns that actually convert, this book is your go-to if you’re ready to turn your brand from average to unforgettable.

Why it’s #1: It delivers tactical advice without the corporate fluff, making it perfect for 2025’s fast-scaling digital businesses.

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2. Influence – by Robert B. Cialdini

The psychology behind why people say yes

A timeless classic, Cialdini’s book dives deep into the six key principles of persuasion. If you’re selling anything, online or off, this is essential reading.

Key Takeaway: Understand the triggers that guide customer behavior and how to ethically influence decision-making.

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3. Building a StoryBrand – by Donald Miller

Clarify your message so customers listen

Donald Miller teaches you how to simplify your brand message using storytelling frameworks. Ideal for websites, pitches, or marketing materials that need to click faster.

Bonus: Especially powerful for websites and landing pages in 2025’s short-attention-span economy.

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4. Atomic Habits – by James Clear

Tiny changes, remarkable results

Though not strictly a business book, Atomic Habits has transformed how business leaders and marketers approach productivity, team culture, and personal development.

Big Idea: Focus on the system, not the goal — and watch the results follow.

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5. Made to Stick – by Chip Heath & Dan Heath

Why some ideas survive and others die

This is the book behind every viral campaign. Learn why certain marketing messages spread like wildfire — and how to make your own ideas unforgettable.

Use this if: You want your brand story or message to go further and last longer.

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6. The Lean Startup – by Eric Ries

Innovate faster, build smarter

Perfect for any founder or small business owner. Ries teaches how to iterate, test, and build based on real feedback instead of wasting months on the wrong idea.

Key Takeaway: Done is better than perfect. Validate fast. Grow smarter.

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7. This Is Marketing – by Seth Godin

You can’t be seen until you learn to see

Godin delivers a powerful message: marketing is about making change happen. This book offers modern insight into branding, tribe-building, and emotional marketing — especially useful in today’s algorithm-driven world.

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8. Good to Great – by Jim Collins

Why some companies make the leap… and others don’t

Backed by years of data, Collins explains why certain companies dominate their markets while others fade out. A must-read for leaders who want to scale with purpose and longevity.

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9. Hooked – by Nir Eyal

How to build habit-forming products

This book explores the psychology behind user retention and behavior loops. Especially important for digital brands and app-based startups.

Power Play: Design products that people come back to daily — without manipulation.

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10. Contagious – by Jonah Berger

Why things catch on

Want your product, content, or campaign to go viral? Berger breaks down the science behind social sharing and word-of-mouth marketing.

Built for 2025: With algorithms changing daily, this human-first framework is more relevant than ever.

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How to Use These Books to Grow Your Business

Reading is step one — applying the lessons is where the magic happens.

Here’s how to implement these learnings right now:

• Build a powerful narrative: Use “WTF is Marketing?!” and “StoryBrand” to simplify your messaging.
• Improve your funnel performance: Combine insights from “Hooked,” “Contagious,” and “Made to Stick” to boost engagement and conversions.
• Scale smarter: Follow frameworks from “Lean Startup” and “Good to Great” to grow with structure and clarity.
• Lead better: Apply habit-building and persuasion tactics from “Atomic Habits” and “Influence.”

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Bonus Tip: Listen While You Work

If reading isn’t your thing — or you’re juggling 10 projects at once — most of these books are available in audio format on Audible or Blinkist summaries. Great for learning on the go, and not having to purchase the physical business or marketing books. (although, we recommend you do!)

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Final Thoughts

In a world where attention is short and competition is fierce, the people who win are the ones who keep learning. These 10 books aren’t just popular — they’re practical, data-driven, and proven to fuel growth.

Want to learn more about modern marketing that actually converts?
Check out “WTF is Marketing?!” by Dabrando and grab your free strategy guide at dabrando.com.

📧 Need help with marketing business? We only charge based on the results we bring clients, no retainers, no hidden fees!

Contact us today at grow@dabrando.co.uk or explore our services to learn more, or Book A Free Discover Call to get started today!