| By :
Jeff Schuman
A great way to become visible in your local business news is to release timely press releases. A press release is typically a written document that seeks to draw media attention to such things as a specific event, product launch, or company updates. Your first press release (also known as a news release) should introduce your business locally (or to the world, depending on your product or service). When writing one do so as if you're a reporter conducting an interview with your business. A press release should not come off sounding like an advertisement. It should be more of a news-style story. This is what will make it appealing to the media. If you're unsure how to write a release you can easily find services that can do this for you. They can also submit it for you. Another challenge for some is trying to come up with ideas for continuing press releases. Here are a few tips they may help you with this thought process: -It can be used to educate readers about something unusual or new about a product, service or techinique in your local market. The more unique, the better your chances are of gaining wide distribution in your local business news. -Relate your product or service to a time of celebration such as a holiday or famous birthday, etc. You can even become involved in local events planned for your area. -You can write it as a form of entertainment. If something humorous happens at your company or a customer has a funny story to share, this can make for interesting reading. You can even offer discounts or gift certificates to people who participate in your "fun" contests. -Similar to educating is "informing". A release, for example, can be used to provide readers with news updates about technology or new procedures within your industry. Readers are always interested in electronics, software, or items of self improvement. -Tie it into volunteerism. You can get involved with business volunteering in many ways. Once you gain insight, experience and information about whatever charity you assist, you can write about it in an informing way. Write about what you've learned concerning the disease or cause. Use the voices of others for more perspective. -Give away stuff! Draw people to either your place of business or your website by giving away promotional items (shirts, hats, knick-knacks), e-books with great information, or actual products. Denny's annual super bowl promotion gives away a free breakfast each year which draws huge media coverage. You can build a deep customer list this way by asking for email addresses in return for the free stuff. This allows you to now follow up with email advertising and information campaigns, giving you additional exposure to your customers. Using press releases to become more visible in your local business news serves at least two great purposes. You not only take advantage of free advertising, but you are communicating valuable information to your customers.
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