Basically, an online press release is a public relations announcement issued to the online news media and other targeted publications for the purpose of letting the public know of corporate or private developments.
Press releases are one of the most cost-effective website marketing tools and one of the few parts of a marketing strategy that builds credibility. Many industries have innovative up-start companies that are relatively unknown on or off the web. For these new companies to gain an edge over their competition, it is essential that they build credibility through internet publicity. The prime way to receive internet publicity is through the writing of press releases. Through various online news sources, an article about a website, a company, or even a new fad can spread all over the world in a matter of days. This brings valued publicity, interest, and inquiries into the product or idea conveyed.
Press Releases vs. Traditional Advertising
Because advertising controls the message to the viewer, while PR does not, It makes it a potent force in achieving credibility for a company. Many times a reader or customer will see an ad and have the predisposition that what they are reading is being overblown bye hype. This simple reason is why people trust the news more that an infomercial salesman trying to sell a vacuum. Most readers and potential customers are more likely to trust independent authorities such as reporters, broadcasters, reviewers, or columnists. So obviously this same majority will be more influenced by a newsworthy press release, than a sales pitch.
Press Releases Can Make a Big Difference
A well-written release can introduce your company to a plethora of consumers, dramatically increase your online sales, and greatly enhance the image and credibility of your business and products. All of that occurs even before it increases your search engine ranking due to back links.
The Bottom Line
Credibility is the one thing that can win the customer’s heart and wallet at the exact same time and no other technique builds more credibility with consumers than a well-written and optimized press release. |