Review of Instant Press Release from Duct Tape Marketing
By admin • November 1st, 2007I came across Instant Press Release on the Duct Tape Marketing blog today while searching for something. I thought it might make for a good review for the press release writing guide.
How it Works:
Basically, it’s an online form where you just fill in the blanks and have it output in press release format.
The Good:
- It’s free
- No downloading
The Bad:
- You can get the same thing (with better instructions) with a lot of free press release templates.
- Anyone who tells you to associate a press release with writing any kind of “ad” really has no business teaching you about press releases. - “Think of your press release as an ad for an interview.” Ummmm, no - although he does somewhat redeem himself later in the template / form in saying that you shouldn’t make it a sales pitch.
- The tool is essentially just a stunt to get subscribers (and if you can use a basic word processor and know how to break into basic paragraphs you can do the same thing without having to add your name to yet another list).
I’ll give him some credit in that at least this isn’t another lame download (just a lame Web form), but the next time he wants to create some subscriber bait I’d suggest something with real content. Remember, if you have to hand over your contact info, it’s not really completely “free.” When you can get the same thing for free in dozens of places already, go that route.
When it comes to something like a press release, understand that it’s not a one-size fits all situation. You’ll need different lengths, different formats, and different styles depending on the type of press release and what you’re trying to convey. Find yourself a good free niche press release template instead of this sign-up.
