10 Social Media Marketing Books That Experts Rely On

Endorsed by Tucker Max, Dan Martell, and Ryan Deiss for proven marketing insights

Tucker Max
Dan Martell
Ryan Deiss
Updated on June 28, 2025
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What if the key to unlocking your brand's potential lies in mastering just a handful of social media marketing strategies? In today's fast-evolving digital landscape, understanding how to make your message resonate across platforms is no longer optional—it's essential. Social media marketing shapes how businesses attract and retain customers, making it a vital skill for anyone aiming to thrive in business today.

Experts like Tucker Max, a best-selling author and entrepreneur, discovered the power of targeted Facebook advertising through Nicholas Kusmich's book Give, highlighting how authentic messaging changes the game. Meanwhile, Dan Martell, angel investor and SaaS founder, praises strategies that blend heartfelt storytelling with data-driven tactics, exemplified in Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook by Gary Vaynerchuk. These insights come from people who've seen firsthand how the right approach on social media can transform a brand's reach and revenue.

While these expert-curated books provide proven frameworks, readers seeking content tailored to their specific experience levels, platforms, or goals might consider creating a personalized Social Media Marketing book that builds on these insights. This approach ensures your learning aligns perfectly with your unique journey in the social media marketing world.

Best for mastering Facebook ads
Tucker Max, a best-selling author and entrepreneur, highlights the rare combination of deep expertise and genuine effectiveness Nicholas Kusmich brings to Facebook advertising, emphasizing that ignoring his insights means leaving money on the table. Max's endorsement comes from firsthand recognition of Kusmich's ability to deliver results beyond typical marketing hype. This perspective is echoed by Dan Martell, who praises Kusmich's heartfelt storytelling paired with powerful strategies, making the lessons memorable and impactful. Their combined insights underscore why this book is critical for anyone serious about leveraging Facebook ads to grow their business.
TM

Recommended by Tucker Max

Author and entrepreneur

There are a lot of "gurus" out there who are experts at one thing only--selling themselves. Nic is the opposite. He's the smartest, most effective person operating right now in his space. Listen to him, you make money. Ignore him, you lose money. Pretty simple. (from Amazon)

Nicholas Kusmich brings his world-renowned expertise in Facebook advertising to this guide that shifts focus from what you want to gain to what you have to offer. You’ll learn how to identify your market precisely, craft messages that resonate authentically, and build systems that attract and nurture relationships on social media. The book breaks down Kusmich’s four-step process, including creating irresistible magnets and retention mechanisms, emphasizing congruence with social media norms rather than traditional ad tactics. If you’re invested in mastering Facebook’s unique advertising landscape to generate meaningful leads and ROI, this book offers clear, experience-backed direction — though it’s particularly tailored for marketers ready to commit to a platform-specific strategy.

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Best for sales professionals using social media
Spiros Margaris, a fintech visionary and top influencer, highlights this book as essential for mastering modern sales dynamics. He urges you to "Get a copy of the new book by the great Timothy Hughes SocialSelling: Techniques to Influence Buyers and Changemakers," reflecting how the book clarifies the evolving relationship between social media and sales. This recommendation comes from someone who advises on AI and fintech trends, showing the book's relevance beyond traditional sales. Alongside him, Ted Rubin, a seasoned CMO, emphasizes the power of community over mere networks and how Hughes equips you to bring personal skills into the digital realm effectively.
SM

Recommended by Spiros Margaris

VC and fintech futurist influencer

Get a copy of the new book by the great Timothy Hughes SocialSelling: Techniques to Influence Buyers and Changemakers. (from X)

2022·328 pages·Sales, Influence, Influencer, Social Media Marketing, Marketing

Timothy Hughes, a recognized pioneer in social selling and CEO of DLA Ignite, wrote this book to help sales professionals adapt to the digital age. You’ll learn how to build genuine digital communities, establish trust on social platforms, and convert relationships into sales, with practical checklists and case studies backing these approaches. The book dives into evolving social media strategies, including how to navigate skepticism and develop real influence in your niche. If you’re a sales director or social media executive aiming to leverage social networks for revenue growth, this guide offers concrete methods without unnecessary jargon.

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Best for tailored marketing plans
This AI-created book on social media marketing is crafted based on your background and specific goals. You share what platforms and marketing areas interest you most, along with your current skill level. The book then focuses on exactly what you need to learn to build and execute effective social media campaigns. This personalized approach helps you cut through general advice to concentrate on what truly matters for your unique situation.
2025·50-300 pages·Social Media Marketing, Social Media, Content Creation, Audience Engagement, Platform Nuances

This tailored book explores the dynamic world of social media marketing with a focus that matches your unique background and goals. It delves into crafting effective marketing plans that resonate on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube, examining content creation, audience engagement, and platform-specific nuances. By synthesizing broad expert knowledge into a personalized guide, it reveals how to build authentic brand voices and optimize campaigns tailored to your interests. The book’s tailored approach ensures you engage with the most relevant topics and skills, empowering you to master social media marketing through a pathway designed specifically for your experience and objectives.

Tailored Content
Campaign Optimization
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for platform-specific content strategy
Ryan Graves, SVP Global Operations at Uber, brings a wealth of expertise in scaling complex operations and understands the critical role of precise social media strategies in business growth. His endorsement highlights the book's relevance for professionals aiming to master platform-specific content techniques. Alongside him, Aaron Agius, a seasoned digital marketing leader, reinforces the book's value for those seeking to enhance their social media impact through tailored storytelling and strategic engagement.
RG

Recommended by Ryan Graves

SVP Global Operations at Uber

Gary Vaynerchuk leverages his extensive entrepreneurial experience to challenge traditional social media marketing approaches in this book. He explains how success depends not just on frequent posting but on crafting content tailored precisely to the unique context of each platform, from Instagram to Twitter. You’ll learn to balance engagement "jabs" with strategic "right hooks" that convert interactions into sales, with concrete examples highlighting platform-specific tactics. This book suits marketers and business leaders eager to refine their digital storytelling and boost conversions by adapting to the evolving social media landscape.

New York Times Bestseller
Published by Harper Business
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Best for solopreneurs growing organically
Fiona Harrold, a world-renowned coach and bestselling author, praises Joeri Billast as a genius in social media marketing. She discovered this book while seeking effective strategies for small business owners to boost sales without costly ads. "Joeri is a genius when it comes to social media marketing. His book is absolutely a must-read for small business owners." Her endorsement reflects the book’s focus on practical techniques for attracting paying customers and growing a loyal audience, making it a valuable guide for anyone wanting to elevate their social media success.

Recommended by Fiona Harrold

World-renowned coach and bestselling author

Joeri is a genius when it comes to social media marketing. His book is absolutely a must-read for small business owners. (from Amazon)

2022·109 pages·Social Media Marketing, Solopreneur, Marketing, Audience Engagement, Customer Acquisition

Joeri Billast draws on two decades of business and social media expertise to show you how to generate sales without spending on ads. The book breaks down how to attract and engage an audience that is ready to buy, using straightforward techniques like building relationships and creating compelling content. You'll learn practical ways to stand out in your niche, turn followers into paying customers, and grow a loyal fan base. It’s especially useful if you’re a solopreneur aiming to make your first significant social media income, with clear examples and a focus on getting visible fast.

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Best for social media beginners
Dave Chesson, founder of Kindlepreneur, knows the challenges of building a social media presence from scratch. He praises Gundi Gabrielle as a phenomenal marketer and writer, highlighting her guest post as a personal favorite. His endorsement reflects the book's practical value in guiding those new to platforms like YouTube and Instagram. As someone deeply embedded in digital marketing, his recommendation signals that this book offers clear, actionable insights for developing your social media strategy effectively.

Recommended by Dave Chesson

Founder of Kindlepreneur

Gundi is a phenomenal marketer and writer and wrote my all-time favorite guest post on Kindlepreneur. (from Amazon)

2017·218 pages·Marketing, Social Media Marketing, Platform Strategies, Audience Growth, Content Creation

Gundi Gabrielle, a 13-time #1 bestselling author and entrepreneur, draws on her experience helping newcomers build their social media presence in this straightforward guide. You learn platform-specific tactics for YouTube, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, and Facebook, including how to optimize your profile, craft engaging posts, and grow your following strategically. The book also offers a detailed monetization chapter for YouTube and a bonus report on persuasive language to convert followers into customers. If you're starting from scratch and want a clear path to building an effective social media portfolio, this book lays out manageable daily routines and tools that demystify the process.

13-Time #1 Bestselling Author
Founder of SassyZenGirl
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Best for rapid follower growth
This AI-created book on social media growth is written based on your background, current experience, and the specific goals you have for expanding your audience. You share the platforms and tactics you want to focus on, and the book is tailored to provide a clear, actionable path that fits your unique needs. By concentrating your learning on what matters most to you, this custom book helps you avoid information overload and build momentum quickly in your social media journey.
2025·50-300 pages·Social Media Marketing, Social Media Growth, Audience Engagement, Content Planning, Platform Selection

This tailored book explores the essentials of accelerating your social media growth through a step-by-step action plan designed specifically for your background and goals. It reveals practical ways to increase followers and engagement rapidly while focusing on the platforms and tactics that resonate most with your unique interests. By blending proven social media principles with a personalized approach, this book helps you navigate the complexities of audience building without unnecessary detours. The personalized content matches your experience level and preferred channels, allowing you to concentrate your efforts where they matter most to create meaningful connections and measurable growth. This focused journey transforms vast expert knowledge into a pathway tailored to your social media aspirations.

Tailored Guide
Growth Acceleration
1,000+ Happy Readers
Best for building personal brand platforms
Jeff Bullas, a digital entrepreneur and bestselling author, recognizes the value of this book for anyone aiming to cut through the noise in social media marketing. Given his extensive experience in growing digital brands, his endorsement signals the book's practical relevance to building a meaningful online platform. Additionally, Douglas Burdett, host of The Marketing Book Podcast, also highlights the book, reinforcing its credibility among marketing professionals seeking proven strategies to amplify their digital presence.
JB

Recommended by Jeff Bullas

Digital entrepreneur and bestselling author

2023·288 pages·Marketing, Social Media Marketing, Commercial Media, Content Strategy, Personal Branding

Drawing from decades of leadership and entrepreneurship, Michael Hyatt crafted this book as a practical guide to turning social media presence into a thriving business foundation. You’ll find detailed guidance on expanding your influence, monetizing your reach, and organizing your content for ongoing success — for instance, the book breaks down how bestselling authors and entrepreneurs use platform-building strategies to attract customers. Chapters focus on amplifying your message in a crowded digital space, helping you develop a sustainable career rather than just fleeting attention. If you’re serious about leveraging social media beyond casual use, this book walks you through the essentials with straightforward examples and proven formulas.

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Best for Instagram marketing growth
Kevin O'Leary, known for his role as a Shark on ABC's Shark Tank, brings a sharp lens to social media marketing, especially when it comes to ROI. After discovering Kim Walsh Phillips's guide, he was impressed that she was "the first social media marketer I ever heard that even mentions ROI," making her his go-to marketer for his investments and personal business. His endorsement, "She has my full endorsement," underscores how this book delivers practical, measurable results. Following him, Dan Kennedy, a direct response marketing legend, praised Kim as the only person he trusts for "dollar-measurable results," reinforcing the book's focus on actual business impact. These insights make it clear why this guide is a valuable resource for anyone serious about turning Instagram into a revenue machine.

Recommended by Kevin O'Leary

Shark on ABC's Shark Tank

Not only is Kim the first social media marketer I ever heard that even mentions ROI, but that is her main focus. She is also the first marketer I have ever recommended to all of my Shark Tank investments and who I use for my personal business. We had her speak at our recent Mr. Wonderful Summit and the attendees loved it. She has my full endorsement. (from Amazon)

2023·250 pages·Instagram, Social Media Marketing, Marketing, Social Media, Content Creation

What if everything you knew about Instagram marketing was outdated? Kim Walsh Phillips, a self-made entrepreneur who scaled her coaching business from 32 to over 11,000 clients in under a year, offers an updated blueprint tailored for today’s Instagram landscape. You’ll learn how to identify your right-fit audience, harness new features like reels and polls, and build marketing funnels designed to convert followers into customers. This book is especially useful if you want concrete strategies for ROI-focused Instagram growth, backed by examples and ready-to-use templates. However, if you're looking for a high-level overview rather than hands-on tactics, this might be too granular.

Named #475 in Inc 5000
Best-selling author
Forbes recommended
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Best for YouTube audience growth
Jesser, a content creator for 100 Thieves and founder of TruCreator, turned to this book while deepening his understanding of YouTube growth tactics. He describes it as a "must read for any youtuber 10/10," underscoring how Derral Eves' insider knowledge reshaped his approach to the platform's algorithm. Jesser's endorsement highlights the practical impact this book has on creators aiming to expand their audience and monetize effectively, making it a key resource for anyone serious about YouTube success.
J

Recommended by Jesser

Content Creator for 100 Thieves and 2Hype

@derraleves Just finished the book, it’s a must read for any youtuber 10/10 (from X)

Drawing from his extensive experience coaching top YouTubers and founding VidSummit, Derral Eves unpacks the secrets behind YouTube's elusive algorithm. You’ll learn how to build a channel that attracts views and subscribers rapidly, with detailed insights on content creation, search optimization, and monetization strategies. Chapters dissect the mechanics of engagement and brand building, showing what truly drives growth on the platform. This book suits creators, marketers, and entrepreneurs eager to translate video efforts into measurable business results—not casual viewers or those seeking general social media advice.

Wall Street Journal Bestseller
Published by Wiley
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Best for refining social media presence
Daymond John, founder of FUBU and a Shark Tank investor, brings a wealth of entrepreneurial and marketing experience to his endorsement, making his recommendation of this book a strong signal of its practical value. His background in building brands from the ground up aligns with the book’s focus on crafting a compelling social media presence. John’s endorsement underscores the book’s authority in guiding marketers through the complexities of social platforms with proven, effective strategies. Alongside him, Douglas Burdett, host of The Marketing Book Podcast, adds perspective from the marketing thought leadership angle, reinforcing the book’s relevance for professionals seeking to elevate their social media game.
DJ

Recommended by Daymond John

Founder & CEO of FUBU, Shark Tank Investor

The Art of Social Media: Power Tips for Power Users book cover

by Guy Kawasaki, Peg Fitzpatrick··You?

2014·208 pages·Digital Marketing, Influencer, Social Media Marketing, Marketing, Social Media

Drawing from decades of experience at Apple and expertise in social media, Guy Kawasaki teams up with Peg Fitzpatrick to distill over one hundred practical tips that sharpen your digital presence. You’ll learn how to build a strong foundation, optimize profiles, and attract followers across platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, with chapters dedicated to integrating blogging and social media effectively. The straightforward approach suits both newcomers overwhelmed by platform choices and seasoned marketers aiming to refine their tactics. This book is particularly valuable if you want focused, no-fluff advice grounded in real-world success rather than theory.

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Best for TikTok ad campaign mastery
Nancy Richmond, university professor and social media consultant, discovered this book after engaging with Dennis Yu's insights over several years. She highlights that hearing Yu speak at DigiMarCon and meeting him personally in Miami brought valuable clarity to TikTok advertising's nuances. Nancy shares, "After following Dennis Yu for years on social media it was great to hear him speak at DigiMarCon and meet in person in Miami, Florida. So many awesome tips. Checkout his book The Definitive Guide to TikTok Advertising." Her endorsement reflects the book’s practical value in navigating TikTok’s complex ad environment, making it a recommended read for marketers aiming to refine their strategy on this vibrant platform.
NR

Recommended by Nancy Richmond

University professor and social media consultant

After following Dennis Yu for years on social media it was great to hear him speak at DigiMarCon and meet in person in Miami, Florida. So many awesome tips. Checkout his book The Definitive Guide to TikTok Advertising. (from X)

2022·183 pages·Advertising, Social Media Marketing, Marketing, TikTok Advertising, Digital Advertising

Perry Marshall's decades of marketing experience, combined with Dennis Yu's digital expertise, shaped this focused guide on TikTok advertising. You learn to harness the 80/20 rule specifically for TikTok ads, identifying the critical 20% of your efforts that yield most returns, and how to scale those with minimal spend. The book drills into practical tactics like targeting high-profit audiences and cutting waste, offering exclusive tools to measure and optimize campaigns efficiently. If you want to quickly grasp TikTok's unique ad landscape and amplify your marketing impact without overspending, this book gives you a clear framework. It's best suited for marketers ready to move beyond basics and tap into TikTok's vast user base with precision.

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Conclusion

These 10 books collectively emphasize three key themes: authentic engagement, platform-specific strategies, and data-informed decision-making. Whether you're a solopreneur looking to generate your first sales without ads, a marketer aiming to master TikTok advertising, or a content creator eager to grow a YouTube audience, there's a book to match your challenge.

If you're just starting out, Social Media Marketing by Gundi Gabrielle offers accessible guidance to build your presence. For rapid implementation, pairing Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook with Ultimate Guide to Instagram for Business can accelerate your content strategy and audience growth. And for those focused on paid campaigns, Give and The Definitive Guide to TikTok Advertising provide actionable insights to optimize ad spend.

Alternatively, you can create a personalized Social Media Marketing book to bridge the gap between general principles and your specific situation. These books can help you accelerate your learning journey and sharpen your competitive edge in the dynamic world of social media marketing.

Frequently Asked Questions

I'm overwhelmed by choice – which book should I start with?

Start with Social Media Marketing by Gundi Gabrielle if you're new, as it covers the basics across platforms. If you want to focus on paid ads, Give offers detailed Facebook strategies. Your choice depends on your current needs and goals.

Are these books too advanced for someone new to Social Media Marketing?

Not at all. Several titles, like The 5K Challenge for Solopreneurs and Social Media Marketing by Gabrielle, are designed for beginners, providing clear, manageable steps to build your presence and sales.

What's the best order to read these books?

Consider your priorities: start with foundational books like Social Media Marketing, then move to platform-specific guides such as Ultimate Guide to Instagram for Business and The YouTube Formula. Finally, dive into specialized ad strategies like Give and TikTok advertising.

Are any of these books outdated given how fast Social Media Marketing changes?

These books are recent or updated editions, reflecting current trends and platform changes. For example, Ultimate Guide to Instagram for Business is a 2023 edition, ensuring relevance to today's marketing environment.

Which book gives the most actionable advice I can use right away?

The 5K Challenge for Solopreneurs offers straightforward, practical tactics to generate sales quickly without ads. Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook also provides clear content strategies tailored to each platform for immediate application.

Can I get customized social media marketing advice tailored to my goals?

Yes! While these expert books are invaluable, personalized content can bridge the gap between general strategies and your unique needs. You can create a personalized Social Media Marketing book tailored to your background, platforms, and objectives for more focused guidance.

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