Press Releases -
The Free Marketing Tactic

The use of press releases is a very powerful and low cost way to grow your service business. This proven technique should be part of any small businesses public relations strategy.

Every small business wants to generate publicity for their company to help get the word out there about them and their services. If you were a large corporation, you'd likely just hire a public relations agency or consultant.

But, small business owners don't typically have that luxury. Generating your own public relations system that doesn't require a lot of cash is your answer. Public relations in its simplest form is about forming relationships with the public.

Although not the only means to do so, sending press releases is a proven and powerful way to accomplish this. They are free to send, except your time to create them, and typically carry more credibility and impact than most forms of advertising.

The goal of sending press releases is primarily to gain positive mentions in media that is consumed in some manner by your target audience. It may result in a feature story, a news brief, an announcement, or even a quote regarding your or your business.

Appearing in or on a newspaper, magazine, news show, trade journal, web site, or newsletter that is viewed or listened to by some portion of your target market has huge advantages over advertising. Not only is the positive mention free, it is often viewed as more believable and credible. Your target market consumes those resources when they are looking for information to address their issues.

So look for all the opportunities that you have to submit press releases about your business. Believe me; the press needs your newsworthy content to satisfy the public's insatiable appetite for information.

Do you have...

* A Grand opening?

* A new product or service?

* A major expansion planned?

* A community service project you're passionate about?

* Any special events coming up such as a presentation or workshop?

*Any major awards you've received?

* A contest or a special give-away planned?

Write a press release and tell the public (especially your target market) about it.

If you're not sure where to start, contact the media outlet you believe make the most sense. Tell them you have news you'd like to share, but are looking for some help to make sure you do it correctly. Ask them to send you a media kit and some sample press releases so you can get the format correct.

PR Web is the recognized leader in online news and press release distribution service for small and medium-sized businesses and corporate communications. Their web site has great tips and guidelines on how to write and promote a Press Release.

Yes, there is certainly more to this marketing approach than what I've provided here. But, this is a good place to start. Create a plan to get started on sending regular press releases today and watch the positive impact on your business.

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