16 Must-Read Books for Personal Branding: Expert Recommendations

by / ⠀Personal Branding / January 13, 2025
Must-Read Books for Personal Branding: Expert Recommendations
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We asked personal branding experts which books shaped their approach. Here’s what they recommended for building a stronger professional reputation.

16 Must-Read Books for Personal Branding: Expert Recommendations

‘Reinventing You’ by Dorie Clark

“Reinventing You” by Dorie Clark is a great resource for anyone who wants to build a strong personal brand. I really liked the book. Actually, it helped me understand how to identify what makes me unique and communicate it clearly to others. The book also encouraged me to ask for feedback from people I trust, which made my message stronger and more focused. It’s straightforward, practical, and a resource I turn to whenever I want to rethink or refine how I present myself. Bhavik SarkhediBhavik Sarkhedi Founder & Creative Director, Ohh My Brand

‘The Human Design Workbook’

One of the most transformative resources I’d recommend to anyone looking to enhance their personal brand is “The Human Design Workbook” by Karen Curry Parker. This book dives into the Human Design system, a unique tool that combines ancient philosophy and modern science to help you understand yourself and how you’re naturally wired to operate in the world. For me, exploring Human Design was a game-changer. It offered an understanding of who I truly am, my strengths, and how I naturally connect with others. As I worked through the exercises in the workbook, I gained clarity about my purpose and how to align it with my personal brand. By understanding my design type-specifically as an emotional generator-I learned that my best approach is to share my knowledge through speaking and writing while waiting for the right opportunities to respond to. This revelation not only helped me refine my branding strategy but also allowed me to embrace marketing and communication methods that feel authentic and effective. Jodi BrandstetterJodi Brandstetter Strategic HR Consultant & Brand Positioning Expert, Lean Effective Talent Strategies

‘The Power of Now’ by Eckhart Tolle

The book that transformed my personal brand wasn’t actually about branding at all. It was “The Power of Now” by Eckhart Tolle. Which is quite different from my usual reading (which is typically fashion history books). But here’s the thing: that book taught me to be genuinely present, which completely changed how I show up in my business. Instead of trying to copy what other founders were doing, I started being authentically myself – the ex-hairstylist who sleeps in wigs to test them and gets ridiculously excited about new fiber technology. When I stopped trying to be what I thought a ‘proper CEO’ should be, that’s when Wigonia really took off. Our customers connected with my real stories from the salon, my honest talk about hair loss, and yes, even my slightly obsessive attention to wig comfort. So while I could recommend all the usual business and marketing books, I’d say find something that helps you be more authentically yourself. That’s your real personal brand right there – everything else is just window dressing.
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Julia NorthJulia North Founder, Wigonia

‘Show Your Work!’ by Austin Kleon

One book I’d recommend is “Show Your Work!” by Austin Kleon. It’s a straightforward, no-nonsense guide on how to share what you do in a way that attracts people and builds your brand authentically. What I like about it is that it focuses on being open and consistent, not perfect or overly polished. I remember reading it during my time at Deloitte, where part of my role was helping clients build innovative ventures. I realized that many had incredible ideas but struggled to articulate them in a way that resonated with others. This book gave me a fresh perspective on how to present work in progress as a story that people could connect with rather than a finished product. It’s something I carried into spectup too. When we work with startups, one of the first things we tell them is to stop hiding behind perfect pitch decks and be vulnerable about their journey. Investors want to see potential and progress, not just perfection, and this is exactly the mindset Kleon breaks down in his book. Personally, it helped me get comfortable sharing my own thoughts and experiences on platforms like LinkedIn, which opened doors to collaborations and opportunities I never saw coming. If you’re looking to enhance your personal brand, especially in a way that feels natural and sustainable, this is the resource to start with. Niclas SchlopsnaNiclas Schlopsna Managing Consultant and CEO, spectup

‘Daring Greatly’ by Brené Brown

I recommend reading “Daring Greatly” by Brené Brown, as it highlights the transformative nature of being vulnerable in building trust and authenticity, which is the cornerstone of creating a personal brand. Brown’s research explores the cultural attitudes towards vulnerability and finds that instead of being a liability, it is a fundamental strength that inspires true connection and trustworthiness. In personal branding, this is especially relevant, as one of the biggest drivers of success is authenticity; people need to connect with you in order for you to stand out in a crowded field. The book also made it clear for me that sharing my personal journey, with all the failures along the way, is not just okay, but vital for creating a brand that genuinely connects with other human beings. It allowed me to be relatable, without creating a facade of perfect image. This change has enabled me to relate to others in a deeper, more meaningful way, which has helped in both social and business interactions. Brown’s insights also encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, take risks, and be more open with sharing ideas. It has improved my ability to communicate with audiences authentically, from public speaking, to social media, to one-on-one. Vulnerability is, as she puts it, letting the real person behind the facade be seen by others, an important step to earn trust and create a personal brand that others identify with and appreciate. One particular thing I took away from the book was to look at vulnerability through the lens of bravery. As an example, when I began sharing personal stories in workplace settings, I was fearful of the way they would land. The greater issue of why this moment was bothering me was addressed in “Daring Greatly,” it helped me recognize those moments as an opportunity to inspire and connect. The responses were overwhelmingly, expressions of gratitude to the stories I shared, sharing stories of their own, all confirming the timeless importance of authenticity. “Daring Greatly” is a helpful book if you want to improve your personal brand; it gives action steps on how you can use vulnerability as a way of establishing trust, building meaningful relationships and being remembered and recognized as a real, honest person. This has fundamentally influenced how I think about my personal brand, and I think the message is relevant to anyone who wants to cultivate a personal brand that is both meaningful and humane. Timothy BrooksTimothy Brooks CEO, Synergy Houses

‘Be So Good They Can’t Ignore You’

One resource I highly recommend is “Be So Good They Can’t Ignore You” by Cal Newport. It challenges the conventional wisdom of “following your passion” and instead emphasizes mastering rare and valuable skills to build a compelling personal brand. This approach resonated deeply with me. By focusing on delivering exceptional value and nurturing my expertise in cybersecurity recruiting, I’ve been able to establish trust and credibility in an industry where precision and reliability are paramount. The book has helped me refine my strategy to align my skills and values with the needs of our clients, which has been instrumental in shaping not just my brand but also the reputation of MyTurn as a platform that delivers excellence. It’s a game-changer for anyone looking to stand out authentically in their field.
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Amit DoshiAmit Doshi Founder & CEO, MyTurn

‘Building a StoryBrand’ by Donald Miller

One resource I’d highly recommend to someone looking to enhance their personal brand is “Building a StoryBrand” by Donald Miller. This book teaches you how to clarify your messaging by positioning yourself or your brand as the guide to your audience’s success, rather than the hero. It provides a step-by-step process for creating a compelling narrative around your brand, which is crucial for standing out in today’s crowded marketplace. For me, this resource has been invaluable in refining how I communicate the value of my PR services and products. It helped me focus on crafting clear, customer-centric messages that resonate deeply with my audience and differentiate my brand from others. By using the principles outlined in the book, I’ve been able to better engage my community, simplify my brand message, and ultimately drive stronger connections and sales. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to create a personal brand that truly connects with people. Kristin MarquetKristin Marquet Founder & Creative Director, Marquet Media

‘Fascinate’ by Sally Hogshead

“Fascinate” by Sally Hogshead completely changed the way I think about personal branding. It taught me that the key to success as a personal brand is to identify and lean into your innate strengths. It’s easy to fall into the trap of mimicking trends set by well-known industry leaders—especially when you’re just starting out. Once I embraced the qualities that make my approach to business unique, I started noticing recurring themes in the testimonials and feedback I receive from customers. That’s when it hit home for me. When you play to your strengths and stop trying to recreate the success of others, you will effortlessly attract aligned clients who value what only you can offer. Kate ScottKate Scott Founder + Creative Director, Launch Out Loud

‘Start with Why’ by Simon Sinek

“Start with Why” by Simon Sinek is a valuable resource that can deeply impact your personal brand. It explains the importance of having a clear purpose behind what you do. People are more likely to connect with your brand if they understand and believe in your “why.” This connection can be the difference between standing out and blending in with the crowd. Understanding and communicating your core belief can make your personal brand more authentic and relatable. Finding your “why” includes asking yourself important questions about your passions and what motivates you. Sinek’s “Golden Circle” framework helps with this—start with your purpose at the center, then move outward to address the “how” (your unique process) and “what” (the result of what you do). Using this method helped me clarify my mission to support those in need, whether it’s in a courtroom or through other means. This focus allows for a genuine and strong connection with clients and peers, enhancing credibility and trust. In practice, consistently articulating your “why” across all interactions is key. Weave it into your narratives and emphasize it in all forms of communication, whether through your online presence, networking events, or client meetings. Staying true to this principle can foster meaningful relationships and ensure that your personal brand resonates with your audience on a deeper level. Andy GillinAndy Gillin Attorney & Managing Partner, GJEL Accident Attorneys

‘Give and Take’ by Adam Grant

Skip the traditional “personal branding” books and read “Give and Take” by Adam Grant. It shifted my focus from self-promotion to adding value for others, which ironically builds a stronger, more authentic personal brand. When you prioritize generosity and meaningful connections, your brand evolves naturally—and people trust it because it’s real. Chris DyerChris Dyer Keynote Speaker On Culture, ChrisDyer.com

‘Your Next Big Thing’ by Ben Michaelis

“Your Next Big Thing” by Ben Michaelis is a fantastic resource for anyone looking to enhance their personal brand. The book doesn’t just tell you what you should do but walks you through exercises and practical steps on how to uncover and communicate your unique value. The core idea is understanding that your personal brand isn’t just about a flashy image—it’s about authenticity and aligning your brand with your true self. This was particularly eye-opening for me, reinforcing the importance of staying genuine, not just in my profession but in everyday interactions. Understanding the importance of crafting a narrative that is built on real experiences and values gives the brand depth and relatability. The book emphasizes honing in on your personal story, which creates a genuine connection with your audience. For instance, when you’re presenting yourself, focus on sharing stories that highlight personal growth or challenges you’ve overcome. This approach not only builds credibility but also allows others to see you as relatable and trustworthy. Creating a brand isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being human and approachable.
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Will YangWill Yang Head of Growth & Marketing, Instrumentl

‘How to Win Friends and Influence People’

One must-read book for enhancing your personal brand is “How to Win Friends and Influence People” by Dale Carnegie. This timeless classic focuses on building meaningful connections, improving communication skills, and understanding the psychology behind relationships-key components of a strong personal brand. What makes it impactful is its actionable advice, like showing genuine interest in others, remembering names, and framing your ideas in terms of how they benefit the other person. Applying these principles can transform how you network, collaborate, and present yourself. Personally, it’s helped me become more empathetic and persuasive, which has been invaluable for building professional relationships and fostering trust in both personal and business contexts. Nick EsquivelNick Esquivel CEO, Globaltize

‘Crush It!’ by Gary Vaynerchuk

I once struggled with creating a strong personal brand, but then I discovered the book “Crush It!” by Gary Vaynerchuk. This book completely changed my perspective on branding and helped me take my personal brand to the next level. In this book, Vaynerchuk emphasizes the importance of authenticity and passion in building a successful personal brand. He teaches readers how to find their unique strengths and use them to create engaging content that resonates with their audience. This approach helped me identify my own strengths and incorporate them into my personal brand. You see “Crush It!” also highlights the power of social media in building a personal brand. As someone who was not very active on social media before, this book showed me how to leverage different platforms and engage with my audience effectively. I started consistently creating content that aligned with my brand and using the strategies outlined in the book to grow my following. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to enhance their personal brand, whether they are just starting or already established. Its valuable insights and practical advice will undoubtedly help you stand out from the crowd and make an impact in your field. Max AveryMax Avery Chief Business Development Officer, Digital Family Office

‘Daring Greatly’ by Brené Brown

“Daring Greatly” by Brené Brown is a fantastic resource for anyone aiming to boost their personal brand. It’s not just about branding in the traditional sense; it’s about authenticity and vulnerability, foundational elements that set you apart in a crowded marketplace. Brown’s research delves into human behavior, explaining how embracing vulnerability can be a strength rather than a weakness. This approach can be a game-changer when creating a personal brand that resonates on a deeper level with your audience. Understanding that storytelling is a key aspect of personal branding can transform how you present yourself. Consider crafting your narrative with genuine experiences, whether they highlight successes or failures, and let your story create connections. One practical method is to identify the core values and experiences that define you. Then, weave these elements into your personal and professional storytelling, ensuring that your communication—be it content pieces, social media updates, or networking interactions—reflects these values. This strategy helps your audience relate to you authentically, which is crucial for building a robust personal brand. Casey MerazCasey Meraz Owner & Digital Marketing Expert, CaseyMeraz.com

‘Dare to Lead’ by Brené Brown

Any book by Brené Brown is worth reading, but my absolute favorite is “Dare to Lead” because it has transformed my approach to personal branding and leadership. I have always believed that authenticity is one of the most important aspects of being a leader, and “Dare to Lead” emphasizes that by not just sharing your successes or high moments but also your struggles and failures, you show up as a more authentic leader. When thinking about enhancing your personal brand, this book will inspire you to lead with courage and authenticity—two traits that are the epitome of a lasting personal brand. Tiffany BanksTiffany Banks Chief Executive Officer | Attorney I Entrepreneur I Leadership and Organizational Development

‘The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck’

Without a doubt I would recommend “The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck.” This book has had an impact on me, even though I’m still working on applying more of it to everything I do and I have a ways to go. The gist of it is that oftentimes we try to appease everyone, and this makes us sound and feel muted. We hold back. People are not attracted to muted people. It’s not exciting enough. If you learn to not care as much about what everybody else thinks, then your true self starts to shine. That’s what really draws an audience. Not everyone will be into it, but that’s okay. You’re not for everyone. Every single entrepreneur I’ve met swears that narrowing your audience results in growth. The reason is that you start speaking to those that want to listen, rather than struggling to reach everyone. Rafael RomisRafael Romis CEO, Weberous Web Design
 

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