When I write press releases for clients, I want them to get the most for their money. I often suggest ways to utilize the press releases I write for them in multiple ways so the content can be reused. Here are some of the strategies I suggest:
1. Submit the Press Release to Distribution Sites
The first and most important step for press releases is to be distributed to press release distribution sites. The clients I work with often have their own budgets and preferences for which sites to use. If you’re looking to distribute press releases for free, I personally love PRlog.org. Just make sure that you do this step first and wait a few days to distribute it any other way. If you give sites like PRlog first publishing rights, they’ll include it on their home page for free for additional exposure.
2. Post Press Releases on Your Own Site
Once your press release is distributed, you can post your press release on your own site as a “News” item or on your company’s blog. You can include the canonical link to the press release if you’re concerned about creating site duplication issues. However, none of the clients I have worked with have had a problem with posting their own press releases word-for-word on their own sites.
3. Share the Content on Social Media
Share the link to the press release on social media. What an easy social media post to write! It’s also a great way to direct traffic to your newest product, service, or offering.
4. Send the Press Release as an Email to Industry Contacts
Ideally, your company has been collecting emails for industry contacts relevant to your market and/or industry. Sending an email directly to these contacts can be the most effective way to ensure that your news is in the right inbox. Some press agencies completely forego using press release distribution sites altogether because this strategy works so well.
5. Let Your Email Subscribers Know About It
It’s also a good idea to send a quick email with the press release or link to your email subscriber list. They want to know about your updates and something worthy of a press release is an important update.
So, there you have it—five ways to use press release content. It is an incredibly affordable way to add new content to your marketing efforts. Think about it this way: I typically charge $75 to $120 for a press release, the same amount I would charge for a 500-word blog. You would get much more mileage out of a press release. If you need help writing a press release, email me at [email protected].
