On a recent jaunt to Costa Rica (beautiful country, amazing time), I was finally able to lay in the sun and read Scott Stratten’s Unmarketing: Stop Marketing. Start Engaging. I follow Scott on Twitter (@unmarketing) and avidly read his blog so I was excited to delve into a book that was recommended by quite a few (namely @write4unj and @curvatude) when I put out a Twitter inquiry on what books I should take on my travels.
*Notice how I feel like I am on a first name basis with Scott though we have never met or had a face-to-face conversation but have had a few Twitter interactions and a virtual high-five…this is how unmarketing and social media works.
The one thing that stuck out immediately was how real and engaging Scott wrote. It was like having a genuine conversation not a heavy monologue or mind-numbing lecture. When I read about social media, marketing, and PR I want to feel immersed in the book and it was refreshing how the pages read effortlessly.
Scott introduces new methods of marketing instead of the same ol’ tired methods. It is quite to refreshing to read out of the box ideas coupled with ways to make the tried and true better for those hesitant to totally revamp their way of thinking. Social media is incorporated but isn’t regarded as the do-all-end-all of unmarketing. However it is an integral part…it is more of the listening and responding!
My favorite parts are the honest true-to-life antedates like his trips to Walmart to unmask the truth to the ten feet rule, his fascination with McDonalds coffee, and his infinity towards Rockports (which I no longer feel are shoes for the Centrum Silver demographic). There are numerous real moments in the book that the majority can relate to as business owners and as consumers. I learned not only do we have to be transparent and authentic in our relationships but we must
This is a must-read for anyone in the business of gaining more clients, making more money, and establishing and managing a great reputation both online and offline. So basically a book for everyone. I am super enthused to use his methods, tips, and advice in my business practices.
Have you read Unmarketing? What is your take? What do you recommend PR Diva read next?
