Free Publicity with Press Releases

A press release, or sometimes called news release, is a condensed article that is written in journalistic style. It is not a sales document, resume or even an advertisement. It's purpose is to highlight what is interesting about your business, call attention to what is newsworthy and to grab the attention of potential customers. A press release can include information about products, new services, or an event within your market.

The good news is that press releases are relatively inexpensive (and sometimes even free) to prepare and distribute. Market research has shown that most press releases generate a higher return than even high-powered (and expensive) ad campaigns.

When the news media picks up and features your story pulled from your press release, free publicity is being generated. It is not uncommon to have your story show up in more than one major newspaper, talk shows or even carried on the major networks such as NBC or CBS. If you are looking to advertise to smaller, local markets only, then you can direct your press release to those local publications who are targeted to your specific industry or marketplace.

One of the biggest advantages about sending out a press release is that there is always a demand for news. All news organizations, including magazine editors, broadcast and industry-specific editors use press releases to develop the bulk of their published news stories. The increase in Internet search engine marketing has increased this demand.

In summary, there are many reasons why press releases are beneficial, here are just a few:

• low cost
• increased company visibility
• high demand for news and press releases
• increase credibility for your organization
• attract new customers
• attract new investors
• take advantage of free publicity

There are many online, printed and other resources to help you learn more about press releases and to generate your own stories.

Copyright M. A. Webb, 2004-2006. All Rights Reserved

Source: http://LearnBizTips.blogspot.com

PUBLISHING AND REPRINT RIGHTS: You have permission to publish this article electronically, in print, in your ebook or on your website, free of charge, as long as the author's information and web link are included at the bottom of the article and the article is not changed, modified or altered in any way. The web link should be active when the article is reprinted on a web site or in an email. The author would appreciate an email indicating you wish to post this article to a website, and the link to where it is posted.

Buzzwords in 2006

Mother Nature has left us with a huge legacy in 2005 with the tsunami, hurricanes, Gulf war and other tragedies. Fortunately, we've also seen an outpouring of human kindness and caring as others have stepped up to the plate to help others in need.

On the technogical side of the world, there were also some tragedies and losses (although not really comparable to human tragedy). We've seen the the rise and fall of Google, blogging and forums. Don't misunderstand me, now, as Goggle, blogs and forums will be around for quite a bit longer, but they just are no longer the "favorites." In their places, we will see new buzzwords entering the technology market in 2006.

Here is a short list that you should keep your eyes and information channels tuned to in 2006:

• Credibility - web surfers will be looking to confirm facts from reliable sources
• Single multifunction devices - the PDA could become extinct as small, handheld devices that can "do it all" are brought to market. Some predict that by 2007 MP3 players will likely be a common feature found on cellular phones.
• Wireless - expect to see the wireless growth expanding to smaller geographic areas. For example, today in airports you find wireless "channels" or areas, but Philadelphia and San Francisco are leading way to become wireless cities in 2006.
• Privacy - this will continue to be a hot topic with the private sector, healthcare and many other leading industries.
• Search engine "wars" - with Google's "fall from grace" expect to see search engine "wars" with MSN and Yahoo as they scramble for declining Google marketshare. However, don't look to see Google turn out their lights yet. They will likely be big players in the Truste movement that is heating up to improve how personal information and subscription information is used online.
• Personalized content - web developers are learning how to cater their content to their users based on personal selections and choices.
• RSS and syndication - if you don't have this in 2006 you won't survive. RSS feeds will no longer be cutting edge, instead, it will be a necessity in order to survive in the industry.
• Affiliate programs - with the rise in click-fraud and content scraping, affiliate programs will become more attractive.

Here are some other buzzwords you'll see as part of the growth in 2006:

• Cyber security
• VOIP
• Attention Data
• Copy Protection
• Alternative Energy (i.e., reusable fuel)
• Content Filtering
• VideoTunes (iTunes with Video)

Stay tuned! This is going to a VERY exciting year!

Source: http://LearnBizTips.blogspot.com

Copyright M. A. Webb, 2004-2006. All Rights Reserved

PUBLISHING AND REPRINT RIGHTS: You have permission to publish this article electronically, in print, in your ebook or on your website, free of charge, as long as the author's information and web link are included at the bottom of the article and the article is not changed, modified or altered in any way. The web link should be active when the article is reprinted on a web site or in an email. The author would appreciate an email indicating you wish to post this article to a website, and the link to where it is posted.

Market Planning Checklist

Before you launch a marketing campaign you should answer the following questions about your business, product or service. We recommend that you create a template or form, then print these out and run through the checklist before each and every campaign you are creating.

1. Have you analyzed the total market for your product or service? Do you know which features of your product or service will appeal to different market segments?
2. In forming your marketing message, have you described how your product or service will benefit your clients?
3. Have you prepared a pricing schedule? What kinds of discounts do you offer, and to whom do you offer them?
4. Have you prepared a sales forecast?
5. Which media will you use in your marketing campaign?
6. Do your marketing materials mention any optional accessories or added services that consumers may want to purchase?
7. If you offer a product, have you prepared clear operating and assembly or installation instructions if required? What kind of warranty do you provide? Are your guarantee or return policies clearly defined? What type of customer service or support do you offer after the sale?
8. Do you have product liability insurance?
9. Is your packaging likely to appeal to your target market(s)?
10. If your product is one you can patent, have you done so?
11. How will you distribute your product?

Careful planning of your marketing campaign using the questions above will not only ensure that you have everything in place, but that you have protected both yourself, your company and its assets.

Copyright M. A. Webb, 2006. All Rights Reserved

Source: http://LearnBizTips.blogspot.com

PUBLISHING AND REPRINT RIGHTS: You have permission to publish this article electronically, in print, in your ebook or on your website, free of charge, as long as the author's information and web link are included at the bottom of the article and the article is not changed, modified or altered in any way. The web link should be active when the article is reprinted on a web site or in an email. The author would appreciate an email indicating you wish to post this article to a website, and the link to where it is posted.