You probably know that a press release can get you positive publicity in the local media.  But, the power of a press release distributed over the internet is tripled.

There are three benefits to distributing your press release on the internet.  The first is that you reach a world wide audience of journalists who are hungry for stories.  If you can get your small, local business mentioned in the Wall Street Journal or New York Times, locals are likely to respect you more.

The second benefit is that ordinary people now see press releases on sites like Google.  So, when searching for information on products or services you provide, you become an expert.

The final reason has more to do with Search Engine Optimization strategy than direct traffic.  When you distribute a press release, it generates hundreds or thousands of backlinks to your site.  Many of these links are from authority sites.  This means that your website gains more credibility in the eyes of the Search Engines.

Don’t rely exclusively on the internet for your press releases though.  Whenever you write a press release, make sure you distribute it via electronic or regular mail to the reporters who cover you most frequently.  You want to make sure that these individuals, who have the potential to give you free local publicity, get the release.

Still, incorporating an online monthly press release into your overall publicity plan can be an excellent idea for getting people to your website.