Book Review – The New Relationship Marketing

The New Relationship Marketing: How to Build a Large, Loyal, Profitable Network Using the Social Web is by Mari Smith (known especially for sharing her Facebook expertise).

This is a well-structured book written in a clear conversational style, and with lots of links to back up or demonstrate particular points throughout. The author claims the book is for many different business people, from solopreneur to C-Suite Executive, and I would agree. It was easy to read and very informative, even for someone who is involved with social media every day. The author knows her subject well.

There are four main sections, starting with a comprehensive introduction answering the question: “What is the new Relationship Marketing and why is it crucial to business today?”. The main body of the book is in two parts: Part One : Relationship Marketing Basics, contains 3 chapters. Part Two: Nine Steps to Significantly Growing Your Business through Relationship Marketing, and has 9 chapters.

The final section contains a conclusion: “How to Adapt as Technology Changes”, a few predictions, many useful resources & further reading lists of blogs, websites, events, books, research stats and case studies. There is also a comprehensive index, which makes the book a useful resource and guide for anyone doing business in an online social world.