In today's world, personal branding has become an essential tool for professional success. Personal branding helps individuals showcase their unique skills, experience, and qualities, and stand out in a competitive job market. To excel in personal branding, it is crucial to keep learning and growing.

Here are the top 10 unexpected books to read for branding that can help professionals achieve their personal branding goals:

'Contagious: How to Build Word of Mouth in the Digital Age' by Jonah Berger
In this book, the author Jonah Berger explains how to create content that goes viral and builds buzz. This book helps professionals understand the psychology behind why people share things and how to create content that resonates with their target audience.

'Ego is the Enemy' by Ryan Holiday
In this book, the author Ryan Holiday talks about how ego can be an obstacle to achieving success. This book is a must-read for professionals looking to build a personal brand that is based on authenticity and humility.

'The Art of Possibility' by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander
This book is about how to create new possibilities in life and work. The authors Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander share stories and insights that help professionals overcome limiting beliefs and embrace new opportunities.

'The Lean Startup' by Eric Ries
In this book, the author Eric Ries explains how to create a successful startup with a minimal budget. This book teaches professionals how to build a brand from scratch and how to create a minimum viable product that appeals to their target audience.

'The Brand Gap' by Marty Neumeier
This book is about how to bridge the gap between business strategy and design. The author Marty Neumeier talks about how to create a brand that is both strategic and visually appealing.

'The Design of Everyday Things' by Don Norman
In this book, the author Don Norman talks about the importance of good design in creating products that people love. This book is a must-read for professionals looking to create a personal brand that is based on user experience and design.

'The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People' by Stephen Covey
In this book, the author Stephen Covey shares seven habits that are essential for personal and professional success. This book is a classic and helps professionals understand how to build a personal brand that is based on character and integrity.

'Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us' by Daniel H. Pink
In this book, the author Daniel H. Pink explains what motivates people and how to create an environment that encourages creativity and innovation. This book is a must-read for professionals looking to create a personal brand that is based on passion and purpose.

'How to Win Friends and Influence People' by Dale Carnegie
In this book, the author Dale Carnegie shares practical advice on how to win friends and influence people. This book is a classic and helps professionals understand how to build a personal brand that is based on communication and relationship building.

'Start With Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action' by Simon Sinek
In this book, the author Simon Sinek talks about how to create a personal brand that is based on purpose and inspiration. This book helps professionals understand the importance of starting with 'why' and how to create a personal brand that is meaningful and impactful.

In conclusion, reading these unexpected books on branding can help professionals build a personal brand that is authentic, inspiring, and impactful. These books offer unique insights and practical advice that can help professionals achieve their personal branding goals.