Copywriters use words to paint vivid pictures, change minds, and communicate a clear message. You need good language skills and creativity to explain ideas simply and understandably. Most great writers start as great readers – the love for the written word being fueled by hours spent in the school library, riffling through pages of stories that each have the power to invent entire worlds within a few lines of ink.
It's no secret that your ability to write well is propelled by your ability to consume what is written. Within those books, writers find inspiration, meaning, and a plethora of new words to decorate their vocabulary. However, the digital age has made reading physical books a lot more difficult. With shortening attention spans and more exciting forms of media to consume, reading has become a slowly decaying medium.
However, not all hope is lost as technology can also be used to make reading more accessible and easier – even from behind a screen. With Kindles and E-Book stores, reading can still be used to inspire writers in the best way. We’ve decided to make things a bit easier and compile a list of some of the best books to read for copywriters looking to elevate their skills in the industry.
Now, you might be wondering why you need these books when you have Google at your fingertips. Well, books present a succinct and evergreen source of knowledge that can be passed on by esteemed, influential, and revered professionals in the industry. While you can find a few hot tips about copywriting online, these books offer you much deeper insight into the world of digital marketing, copywriting methodologies, and SEO. So, let’s get into the list of books that your bedside table could use to make you a better copywriter:
This New York Times bestseller goes into incredible detail about the psychology of getting people to say yes and how to implement those understandings into businesses and daily life. Dr. Cialdini discusses six shortcuts: scarcity, authority, consistency, likeability, consensus or social evidence, and reciprocity. These are all used to influence human behavior and serve as a cornerstone for influencing decision-making. The power of persuasion is invaluable to creating truly engaging content.
Buy the book on Amazon here.
Next on the list is this handy guide to creating the type of copy that flies off shelves. Aimed at professionals in the field of copywriting, this book is ideal for editors, writers, reviewers, and anyone looking to learn more about elevating copywriting techniques. Bly focuses on methods of creating effective marketing plans, potential customers, succinct content, and how to build trust. These are all concrete lessons in creating marketing copy – even in a digital age.
Buy the book on Amazon here.
This book introduces the principle of “stickiness” in which the creation of a message either “sticks” in the minds of readers and creates ongoing power or is forgotten. The New York Times Bestseller also discusses several concepts around how to communicate in a way that has lasting effects and uses several examples of successful “sticky” ideas by professionals across industries, politicians, journalists, and more. Copywriting survives off creating, communicating, and effectively planting ideas in a reader’s mind.
Buy the book on Amazon here.
This is a unique compilation of letters written by Gary C. Halbert to his son while the great copywriter was imprisoned at Boron Prison. In this collection of correspondence, Halbert explains insider tactics of copywriting and marketing while giving sage advice and life lessons. Apart from the technical aspect, these letters serve as a guide to overcoming hurdles and striving for greatness in the face of adversity. This is a must for any writer looking to expand their skills and the motivations that drive them to write.
Buy the book on Amazon here.
Written by a messaging strategist and customer-driven copywriter, this book delves into the ways customer research can elevate your copywriting. Using several case studies and examples, Havice allows you to see the world through the lens of a customer and adapt your content to find the best value. Copywriting relies heavily on what consumers want or need – you can’t be writing something that nobody wants to see. This book will help you navigate customer relations in a way that will enhance your writing skills.
Buy the book on Amazon here.
In this practical and inspiring book, Handley perfectly encapsulates how to create content that attracts and delights your readers. This Wall Street Journal Bestseller is a precise guidebook that touches on writing with clarity, empathy, and personality while highlighting the mistakes you might make along the way. Marketing is a major element of copywriting and learning the proper style and formats will help optimize and create content in the best way. This strategic and insightful book is a must for your bookshelf.
Buy the book on Amazon here.
Search Engine Optimization is a crucial element for any budding copywriter to understand. This book explores both the technical and the creative aspects of SEO. From SEO strategies and audits to keyword research and content marketing, everything you need to know about creating the best SEO for your copy.
Buy the book on Amazon here.
Copywriting can be a tough field to navigate for novices and experienced veterans in the field alike. With evolving technology and content that needs to adapt to stay relevant, copywriters need all the resources available to keep their skills sharp. Fortunately, companies need to look no further than right here for a group of talented copywriters with the ideal skills to amplify your brand’s voice. TMG Global provides inspired, professional, and evolved copywriting that can enhance your brand in the best way. Contact TMG Global today for a free content audit or to learn more about how we can help your business reach new heights.
