B-Bye Press Releases, Media Relations has Evolved

While traditional press releases are a great way to distribute a corporate announcement to a lot of people, they are no longer the only or best way to get your company in the news. With the proliferation of texting, social media and e-mail, press releases are frequently too slow and cumbersome. Plus, putting press releases on the newswire can be expensive! So what are your options?

Now don’t get me wrong, press releases still have a place in corporate communications strategy. Board members, shareholders and investors love and expect them. They are also great fodder for your Web site’s online newsroom. And, electronic press releases can be strategically optimized to attract search engines (SEO/search engine optimization) to your company’s Web site. But, press releases have their limitations in today’s text media society.

One of the best ways to get your message or offer distributed quickly, easily and free is through social media channels. Most reporters are “linked in,” “friends” and “tweeting” so you will reach the media at the same time you reach your network of contacts. Reporters frequently find newsworthy stories and expert sources on social sites.

Also, many news outlets are hungry for content and will accept stories provided by their readers. These are great places to publish your own news in a credible forum and reach the right people at no cost. Many of these sites also accept articles, announcements and photos. They are good spots to establish yourself as an industry expert so be sure to include your bio and headshot.

Synergy Marketing Group, a full service strategic marketing firm with offices in Indianapolis and Dallas, specializes in media relations, public relations, publicity, search engine optimization (SEO), blogging and social media.

To schedule a complimentary consultation, e-mail Synergy Marketing Group’s CEO, Marc Zucker or call him at 888-284-055 ext. 221.