subject: Press Release Distribution - Different Websites Have Different Rules [print this page] When it comes to press release distribution, one of the most important things for any business to know is the rules that they are expected to follow. You can find a variety of common rules for distribution and submission of press releases that you need to know, but there are also many individual rules that services have created that you must know before working with them. As a business looking to create a credible image, you don't want to ruin that by not following simple rules. Some basic press release rules include:
-Include company information. Your company biography or details is critical to a press release, and you must provide the information that people need to find you and learn about your company and why it matters to them.
-Provide factual, objective information. Subjective articles and promotional content is best saved for blogs and website content. Stick with the facts and write in third person so that the release looks like a news document instead of a sales pitch.
-Current information only, please. Press releases are not for shameless self-promotion. If you're going to use them that way, you need to put a current events spin on the releases to make sure that they provide interesting content and pass inspection for relevancy.
-Keyword use matters. The basic rule is 4-5 instances per 500 words, or fewer if the word count is lower. Stick to 1% density or less for best results and wider acceptance. You can do SEO in a press release, but it shouldn't be the focus.
-No promotional copy or biased opinion-style content. Keep it simple, keep it informational, and keep your sales pitch in your marketing emails.
-Verify facts and provide resources. If you say that '15% of the population age 16-26 doesn't use Twitter', you'd better be able to back that up with proof somehow.
-Save the hype for advertising. Again, this is an informational, formal document. Don't use too many adjectives and definitely avoid exclamation points at all costs.
These tips are pretty common among most press release distribution services. Make sure that you get to know your service so that you can follow their other rules, as well. Because of increased spamming and misuse, many press release distribution services don't take rules violations lightly anymore, whether they are intentional or accidental. Save yourself the hassle by taking the time to know the rules before you start.
