Writing press releases: 9 out of 10 miss this critical element

4/1/2007 By Joan Leave a Comment

One of the most valuable elements of a press release—a link that lets the reader click through to a website—is missing from 9 out of 10 press releases submitted to BusinessWire.com, one of their own press releases says.

I find that statistic difficult to believe. But based on the press releases that people email to me, I know that many writers miss valuable opportunities to lead readers to a website, or a product catalog, or a page at their website where visitors can download a free tips list or an ebook or special report. I list more examples of freebies in “Special Report #51: 55 Free Things You can Offer to Generate Publicity or Capture People’s Email Addresses.”

But that doesn’t mean you can go crazy with links. BusinessWire.com suggests one link for every 100 words of your press release.

Check out their tips on how to optimize press releases for the search engines.

Filed Under: Press Releases/News Releases, Publicity on the Internet

About Joan

I'm a publicity expert and a former newspaper editor who teaches people how to use the media to establish their credibility, enhance their reputation, position themselves as experts, sell more products and services, and promote a favorite cause or issue. I welcome guest posts. Pitch me first at JStewart (at) PublicityHound.com.