Once you understand the basics about press releases and how they can be an effective direct marketing tool, the next thing is to learn how to write a press release and use it effectively to help grow your online or off-line business.

Although press releases vary in length, ideally they need to be between 300 and 800 words. Furthermore, many written publications usually prefer press releases to be printed on one page or two pages with the content printed on the reverse.

Since most media companies have an extremely large amount of material to publish, your press release needs to stand out in order to be picked up. It may be easier to have your press release published on the internet, but to make it an effective marketing technique, you need to make sure it gets maximum exposure.

You also need to know that despite the widespread use of the internet, there is still quite a number of people who tend to believe traditionally printed material more than what they read on the internet. Therefore, it's very important to build your credibility when marketing online.

One of the biggest mistakes people or businesses make is that they write press releases that sound like sales letters. Everyone knows that the objective of a business press release is to increase sales. However, to increase the chance of getting published, you should write your press release in a newsworthy fashion. In other words, the content should be more informational rather than a sales pitch. It takes a talented writer to sell without selling.

When writing a press release you need to choose your angle. Tell a story about your business or company, and make it interesting so that it becomes a newsworthy piece of information. Start writing your press release with a catchy title so that the readers will be intrigued and want to read more. Create a unique title and opening line that are also keyword rich.

Consider adding a personal touch to your press release by including quotes from the owners (you and your buiness partners). Remember, your objective is to make the media companies and readers want to read your news release and get more information about your company. In case you don't feel comfortable writing your own press releases, you should consider hiring a qualified ghostwriter.

In addition to reading the content of your news release, the media and your potential customers should also have the desire to contact you or your company. A press release becomes a powerful marketing tool when it accomplishes this objective. If your press release is in print form, it's essential to include your contact information because there is no link for your readers to click.

Following the above tips should enable you to get started to write an effective press release that you can use as a marketing tool to develop your business.