Tightwad Marketing

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Good Books: a Tightwad Marketing reading list

© John Kuraoka, a project of www.kuraoka.com

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Running a small business requires study. After all, no other endeavor demands that you know so much about so many subjects. The good news, is that there are a lot of helpful books. The bad news, is that there are too many helpful books. So, here is a list of seven books any owner of a small business should read. In listing these books, I’ve deliberately neglected the traditional bibliographical format because I’m sure there are newer editions on bookseller’s shelves than on my own.

True tightwads will seek out these books first at the library, where they can be borrowed for free. Some books, marked with an asterisk (*), sold well enough since publication that you can find them in used-book stores as well.

1. * George S. Clason, The Richest Man in Babylon. With memorable “ancient” parables, this slim book gives you a concise and practical plan for financial success.

2. * Dale Carnegie, How To Win Friends and Influence People. This all-time American classic gets to the very heart of building relationships - with customers, suppliers, employees, everyone.

3. * Herb Cohen, You Can Negotiate Anything. There are newer books on negotiation strategies and tactics. But none yet as engaging and practical as this former best-seller.

4 and 5. Roger von Oech, A Whack on the Side of the Head and A Kick in the Seat of the Pants. These practical guides to creativity will stimulate your thinking and help you develop innovative solutions to problems. Of particular value are the exercises to strengthen your creative musclepower.

6. * Jay Conrad Levinson, Guerilla Marketing. This book is subtitled “Secrets For Making Big Profits From Your Small Business.” That pretty much says it all.

7. Robin Williams, The Non-Designer’s Design Book. You can use the principles explained in this delightful little guidebook to increase the visual appeal and effectiveness of any printed piece, including business cards, ads, signs, menus, and more.

Knowledge is power, especially for owners of small businesses!
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