Most business owners, entrepreneurs, and individuals want the best press coverage by getting featured on major media platforms and news sites. Only a single tool of marketing is capable of doing that and that is a Press Release. Even though it is just a written document, it is further optimized to churn out marketing values which can provide more exposure to the business. While there are many press release writing and distribution agencies available online, it can also be a daunting task to find one suitable agency for the task. The pricing range of the packages can also vary drastically based on the distribution network and additional features.
However, there is also an option to Submit free PR as well. There are many websites that offer freemium services of PR writing and distribution and it can be a game-changer for emerging businesses and entrepreneurs. Many PR firms offer the service only once for every user and some of them offer the services for the long term. While free press releases are quite tempting due to their free-of-cost service; there are some aspects that the users need to focus on.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Free PR
Benefits
- Cost – It comes absolutely free of cost which makes it applicable for everyone whether a small-scale business owner, an industrialist, or an independent artist. The free cost allows taking advantage of the PR packages for those who cannot afford the paid services. The users can avail themselves of the services without any worry of losing money.
- As a Trial – As there are multiple websites available online, it is quite natural to get confused. It is quite natural for the users to wish to test the packages for authenticity. While testing paid packages can cost a lot of money, free PRs are perfect to try out the packages as a trial. Availing of this package does not cost any money, so you can check the packages and their efficiency without spending any.
- Aggressive Promotion – Let’s say you are looking forward to making consecutive press release distribution for any coming event of your company. While paid packages can cost you a lot, free PRs can allow making aggressive promotions within a short period and without losing on budget. It is perfect as a call-to-action and promoting products effectively.
Drawbacks
- Not so Effective Distribution – There is a famous saying ‘You get what you pay for’. So, there is no point in expecting a huge distribution from a free PR service. The distribution network offered in the free PR services is not so effective in comparison to paid distribution channels.
- SEO Benefits – Free PRs are not always SEO optimized which makes it good content but not a great marketing tool that can boost online visibility.
- Chances of Fraud – There are a plethora of free PR websites available and some of them could lead a fraud as there is no money involved. Some of them can abandon the content and you won’t be able to claim anything.
By analyzing the benefits and drawbacks of free press release services you can opt for the service that suits you the most. In case, you do not want to get involved with an agency and want to take things into your hand; follow the steps given below to make your DIY approach.
- Craft your own PR with a killer headline and the right format to grab attention
- Optimize it with multimedia attachments and SEO based keywords
- Find the right journalist and media houses based on your niche and industry
- Pitch to them for distribution at the right time and situation when getting the most visibility
Usually, hiring a professional agency is the best option to proceed with since they are more experienced and skilled in the field. They can provide you relevant and organic exposure in a short while that can take a lot of time in case of a personal approach. When you take things in your control, you will unable to focus on the business prospects while being busy with PR and marketing approaches. Understand your business and the purpose of the press release distribution before you proceed. A press release is definitely a benefactor for business and when you know the right use of it; PR can make wonders.
