Automated PR Submission

[feeco]

Hi, I have been writing and releasing press releases once a month for the last 6+ months to a select number of free pr websites. I am wondering if anyone has experience with any automated submission software / online website that does this for you. I found a few sites today: Vocus.com and PR Wizard Press Release Blaster. Has anyone tried these, or any other sites? What would you suggest, or should I keep on submitting them on my own? Thanks!

[jhmattern]

Those are the quickest way to have any legitimate journalist blow you off and never take another release from your company seriously. Think about the long term, your company's reputation, and don't participate in press release spam.

[CommunicateNews]

Stephanie:

I visited the sites associated with your signature and would suggest that if you are trying to attract attention, getting the release into the hands of the right, relevant media is crucial:

Editors: Products highly specialized warrant distribution to the media that cover that niche subject. These are subjects very specific groups of people would be interested in, not the general public.

Consumers: Reaching mainstream editors that cover consumer issues, like gardening or home improvement require a different approach.

You are using the right tactics: issuing press releases regularly, looking to build recognition over a period of time. Without seeing the press releases, I wouldn't be able to comment about the positioning of the press release. An experienced editor would see right through a sales pitch - editors want to know what your product or service will do for their readership. Why would they want to read about what you're offering? If that is covered, then perhaps there are other elements you can adjust to increase response.

Two elements in your direct control that can influence potential pickup are:

- Timeliness
- Media attachment

Issuing press releases simply announcing a product is available does not drive an editor or producer to take action. By tying it into an event, season or other time sensitive activity, you increase the likelihood editors will take action sooner rather than later.

Including a media attachment accomplishes several goals:

- It slows editors down to more closely evaluate what you're offering
- Even if they doesn't use it, your release got more time
- Most releases don't include photos, so the investment applied to add one to your release will more than pay for itself, if all things being equal between you and another story, your's gets pickup because you included the photo

More information about your approach and where the release is directed would be helpful in better addressing your posting.

Best regards,
Melanie