I have written and distributed several press releases for the organization that I work for and plan on sending out my own press release once I go live. But, I'm wondering... how well do press releases actually work? How many of you have sent out press releases and have you gotten any response from them (that you know of)? Also, how extensive is your distribution list?

I believe press releases can be very effective, if written the right way. If you send a press release that is strictly just a commercial for your business, you probably have very little chance of it getting picked up. In order for it to grab the attention of the reporter or editor, it has to be newsworthy, and more importantly, it has to be a good story. If it's a good story, it makes the work of the reporter that much easier. If it's well written, timely, interesting and in the right format, they will use it. There are some other threads in this topic discussing press releases, including a press release tool that will help you to write your release.

As for the distribution list, it depends on what you're writing about and how big the area is where you live. If you're writing something that would be suited to your local audience, make sure to send it to all the major newspapers and media outlets. If it's something for a national audience, there are a number of services (again, see the other threads) that will distribute your release for you.

It sounds like you have alot of experience writing press releases already, but if you ever want some other eyes to take a look, feel free to post it here and we'll give you our humble and honest opinions!

Hope this helps!

Yvone

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Yvone M. Kon
M.Y. Marketing & Design
Your Virtual Marketing Assistant - At Your Service!
www.mymarketingdesign.com

Hi Stephanie

This link takes you to an archived chat with Diana Ennen that discusses press releases, their effectiveness and how to write one properly.

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Shari Sultana
Online Business Manager (marketing for retail ecommerce)

Thanks. I'm sorry for replying so late. It got lost among all the posts somehow and I forgot about it until today. I had to search on "press release" to find it...lol

I do have quite a bit of experience writing press releases so I'm familiar with formatting. I was just never sure if it was being picked up or not. I'll be sure to check out other posts.

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Stephanie
New VA in the research phase :daisy: