Jack Trout was a marketing expert and co-creator of the concept of positioning, a framework that revolutionized how brands differentiate themselves in competitive markets. Alongside Al Ries, he co-authored several influential books, including Positioning: The Battle for Your Mind and The 22 Immutable Laws of Marketing. Trout emphasized clarity, simplicity, and the importance of being first in the customer’s mind. He also worked as a consultant to major corporations and governments, shaping global branding strategies. Trout’s legacy lives on through his contributions to strategic marketing thinking, particularly the importance of perception and focus in building strong, memorable brands.
This marketing classic distills decades of experience into 22 concise rules for building and maintaining strong brands. Al Ries and Jack Trout argue that marketing success comes from perception, not product, and each “law” illustrates a key principle—such as the Law of Leadership, the Law of the Category, and the Law of Focus. The book warns against common marketing pitfalls and emphasizes clarity, consistency, and positioning. Though first published in the 1990s, its ideas remain highly relevant in a crowded, fast-moving marketplace. It’s a sharp, digestible guide for marketers, entrepreneurs, and business owners seeking long-term strategic advantage.