Sedona, AZ - When you own a business, getting the word out can be an expensive proposition, which does not always yield the desired results. One affordable and effective way of getting publicity for your business is to utilize press releases, which are published for free.

A press release is an article that has appeal to the targeted audience, includes a news angle and can revolve around a variety of topics. A press release can focus on an upcoming event, an individual’s profile, information that educates the readers, human interest, the results of an individual’s or group’s efforts or local news. One of the caveats about writing a press release is that it has to be written objectively rather than in the marketing style that you would normally use to sell your services.

How do you get a press release published? Usually, you just send it to the editor of the publication you are targeting. Carl Jackson, the Editor of Sedona.Biz, says, “I will print a press release for free if it is newsworthy. In a press release, I want information that is interesting to my readers and is professionally written. Like most editors, I prefer not to have to do heavy editing on a piece because it’s labor intensive.”

What are some of the things you should consider when writing press releases? Willma Gore, who conducts writers workshops in Sedona and who has written numerous press releases gives this advice. “A press release should have a good title that appeals to the audience that you’re targeting. It should be short, to the point, just the facts that readers can use.” Willma also suggests that when you send the press release, which is usually by email, write, “Press Release for Immediate Release” on the subject line. She also recommends that you be sure to include your contact information-name, address, telephone number and email.

How do you create a focal point for a press release? One of the most tried and true ways of generating a newsworthy topic is by planning an event. If the event planning is done effectively, a well written press release can create the buzz you need to attract a good crowd.

Joe Neri and his wife Kris routinely hold events at their Sedona bookstore The Well Red Coyote. When asked about the events that are held at his establishment, Joe said, “Having weekly events was part of our business plan. Part of our identity includes the intention of having a gathering place for like-minded people interested in music, poetry and writing.”

From Joe’s comments, it’s clear that events can be a key component in forming the image you want to project to your public. For your event planning to be successful, it’s crucial that your press releases appeal to your target market and motivate them to attend your event. If you do not have the expertise to create a professionally written press release, it is worth your while to use the services of a professional. With a press release, you can brand your business in a way that attracts customers, and a writing professional has the expertise to do that using the most effective methods.

Press releases are a form of free advertising and event planning is one way to generate a press release. You can also use news on your latest project, human interest stories that have come out of your professional experiences or information that will enlighten readers to create a press release. As with any form of advertising, it’s important that the message you communicate is clear, relevant and well written. If you need professional help to do that, invest in having the best written message for your target audience. It will pay off in terms of a positive customer response.

For press release or business event planning services, visit www.sedonatransitions.com or contact Marie King at 928-204-5691.  Click here Marie's business services brochure (.pdf).

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