The 5 Best Books for Upping your PR Game
4 Jan 2022
4 Jan 2022
As the new year rolls around, you’re probably chalking up goals and plans for how to be a better PR writer. The biggest part of this, naturally, is writing more and writing smartly. Many writers will say that reading isn’t as important as honing your writing skills through practice – and sure, practical experience has no substitute. But there’s a lot to be said for having some gems of wisdom from the experts on hand, for dipping into whenever you need a little extra inspiration. As we get set for a productive new year, here’s our pick of the top five books to put on your PR reading list for 2022.
This provocatively titled book by marketing giant Ryan Holiday is a mine of practical advice on how to create viral campaigns and build a solid PR reputation. It’s packed with real-life examples and case studies that writers can refer back to, and is written with Holiday’s signature blend of warmth, wit and wisdom. It’s particularly useful for start-ups looking to make it big, although veteran PR professionals can learn a lot from it too.
Knowing how to tell a great story is an essential skill for every PR agency, and this delightful book by Alexander Jutkowitz is the ultimate guide to building that skill. Through actionable how-to guides and real-life examples from successful brands, it teaches writers how to weave a story around their company or cause that listeners will care about. By showing writers how to tap into intrinsic human nature, it helps you craft stories that will endure even in today’s chaotic digital age.
This guide to communicating online is a must-have for anyone looking to make it big in marketing and PR. The two very often go hand-in-hand, and David Meerman Scott’s book provides detailed roadmaps on how to leverage the best of both to connect with buyers and generate stronger leads. From podcasting and blogging to viral marketing and live video, this
book covers it all.
If you’re looking for a starter guide to PR for an up-and-coming business, you can’t do much better than this handy volume by Jennefer Witter. From tips on writing the perfect pitch to how to handle speaking engagements to knowing when (and how) to choose a PR agency, this book is ideal for small business owners looking to gain as much attention and credibility for their brand as possible.
While not a how-to guide in the strict sense of the term, this enjoyable history of public relations has a wealth of useful lessons nonetheless. Larry Tye explores the stories behind the many successful campaigns that Bernays headed and how great PR can have a long-term influence on people’s behaviours. By the end, you’ll see that the core tenets of great PR are the same today as they were a hundred years ago.
No matter which of these books you read, you’re bound to walk away with several useful tips and fresh perspectives on the art of PR writing. Apply them wherever possible to your own craft, and you’ll soon see the difference in how your audience is responding. And if you’re looking for expert PR inputs tailored to your needs and goals, reach out to SSPR’s talented team today.
