4 Books to Help You Apply Creativity to Your Business Communications

Keeping Creativity Alive in Business Communications

Business communications can sometimes feel a bit dry. Whether you're crafting emails, reports, or marketing materials, it’s easy to fall into a routine that prioritizes clarity and professionalism at the expense of creativity. But creativity is essential—it makes communications engaging, memorable, and persuasive.

The good news? You don’t have to be a naturally gifted writer or artist to inject more creativity into your business communications. Here are four books that will help you think outside the box and apply creative principles to your work.

1. The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron

This book is all about tapping into your creativity. It’s less of a traditional read and more of a workbook, designed to help you unlock creative potential through structured exercises and reflection.

When I went through The Artist’s Way, I found it incredibly valuable—even though I didn’t complete every single exercise. That’s the beauty of it: you can pick and choose what resonates with you and still gain a lot from the process. If you’re looking for a way to break through creative blocks and bring fresh energy to your business writing, this book is a great place to start.

2. On Writing by Stephen King

You might not think of Stephen King when it comes to business communications, but On Writing is a goldmine of wisdom on discipline, creativity, and the craft of storytelling. Part memoir, part guide to writing, this book showcases the daily grind of a creative life.

King doesn’t portray creativity as some magical burst of inspiration—instead, he emphasizes showing up every day and putting in the work. That’s a crucial lesson for business communicators. Whether you’re drafting a proposal or writing a social media post, consistency and persistence are key.

3. Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert

If you’ve ever felt pressure to come up with original ideas or worried that someone else beat you to the punch, Big Magic will shift your mindset. Gilbert takes an abundance-based approach to creativity, encouraging readers to embrace curiosity, let go of fear, and recognize that ideas are always flowing.

For business communications, this book is a breath of fresh air. It reminds us that there’s enough room for everyone’s ideas and that we should focus on enjoying the creative process rather than stressing over perfection or competition. Whether you’re brainstorming marketing campaigns or developing a brand voice, Big Magic can help you approach the task with more fun and less pressure.

4. Rhetorica by Scott Keyser

Unlike the other books on this list, Rhetorica is a much more structured, practical guide designed specifically for the corporate world. It provides clear strategies for improving business writing and communication, some of which may seem counterintuitive but are highly effective.

If you’re looking for tools to refine your messaging, make your writing more persuasive, and communicate more effectively in a professional setting, Rhetorica is an excellent resource. It bridges the gap between creativity and business practicality, making it a must-read for anyone who writes as part of their job.

Final Thoughts

Creativity isn’t just for artists—it’s a crucial skill in business communications. Whether you’re crafting presentations, writing proposals, or engaging with clients, thinking creatively will make your work more compelling and impactful. These four books offer different perspectives on creativity, discipline, and communication, helping you bring more originality and effectiveness to your professional writing.

Which of these books have you read, or which are you adding to your list?