Tuvel Communications Blog

Now, it should be pointed out that before you think about distribution, you should think about how to geo-target the content of the press release itself by using city- or region-specific keywords. There was a fantastic suggestion we received via LinkedIn: “Lots and lots of freelancers and journos cover areas in which they aren't located physically. You wouldn't want to miss coverage by focusing the actual distribution of the message on a specific area.” With this in mind, you may want to consider national distribution.

We set out looking for the best tools and methods for local distribution of press releases, and we came up with some very interesting solutions that are simple and either no-cost or low-cost.

No cost:

• PRLog.org – allows you to select specific geographic areas where you want to target the distribution of your press release.
• Send to local AP bureau – Yes, you can fax or email your press release directly to your local AP bureau. It’s surprisingly effective in getting local coverage. You can find contact info for your local bureau here.
• Research and compile a list of local online and print pubs, along with contact info (reporter/editor name, email address, fax number), and send your press release straight to them.
• Your blog – look for local blog directories (i.e. outside.in) and add your blog to them. You can then post your press release directly to your blog and geotag your posts so they will show up in these directories.
• Tweet a link to your press release and include a hashtag for your city (i.e. #DC, #NYC, #SF, #Chicago).

• readMedia - this is a distribution service that allows you to choose local media offered in their database and target your press release just to them. Jason Falls offers a more detailed explanation of the service here.