Press Releases Still Work: Here's Why Brands Keep Using Them

In a world of viral content and paid ads, it might seem like press releases are no longer useful. But for brands like Saromben, they remain one of the most effective tools to build credibility, gain exposure, and control the message.

Press releases arent deadtheyve just evolved.

What Is a Press Release in 2025?

At its core, a press release is a structured announcement made by a company, organization, or public figure. It communicates real news: product launches, partnerships, achievements, or major events.

But what makes modern press releases different from those of the past?

Todays press releases are:

• SEO-focused

• Built for online sharing

• Optimized for journalists and algorithms

• Readable by both people and machines

For Saromben, a growing ethical fashion brand, publishing press releases helped them transition from a small community startup to a trusted name in local and regional media.

What Makes Press Releases Still Effective?

Lets break down why smart brands keep using press releaseseven in 2025:

• Credibility: A formal press release carries more authority than a social media post.

• Structure: The standard format makes it easy for journalists to republish or build stories around.

• SEO Boost: Properly optimized releases appear in Google News and search results.

• Longevity: Unlike Instagram Stories, a press release doesnt disappear in 24 hours.

When a press release is written clearly and distributed correctly, it can deliver lasting visibility.

Where You Publish Matters: Enter Portal Narasi

You can write the best press release in the worldbut if no one sees it, it wont work.

Thats why distribution is just as important as writing. Aside from your own website or email newsletter, consider platforms that already have an audience.

Portal Narasi is one such platform. Known for its emphasis on human stories, culture, and social impact, it offers a space where press releases can gain real traction.

Saromben, for example, once shared a press release through Portal Narasi announcing their partnership with local weavers in Central Java. The release didnt just get publishedit started conversations and helped boost engagement across media and social platforms.

Anatomy of a Strong Press Release

Heres how to structure your release for maximum impact:

1. Headline: Make it clear and keyword-rich, not clickbait.

2. Opening paragraph: Answer the five Ws (Who, What, When, Where, Why).

3. Body: Give context, background, and supporting details.

4. Quote: Include a quote from a key figure in your brand or a partner.

5. Boilerplate: A short paragraph describing your company.

6. Media contact: Provide a real person for follow-up (email or phone).

The tone should be professional but naturalnot stiff or robotic.

What Kind of News Deserves a Press Release?

You dont need to wait for a million-dollar deal to justify a release. Consider these newsworthy moments:

• Launching a product or service

• Hosting or sponsoring an event

• Announcing a partnership or collaboration

• Publishing a report or survey

• Winning an award or receiving recognition

• Supporting a social cause or community project

If the information has value beyond your internal teamits probably worth announcing.

Tips for Making Your Press Release More Powerful

• Use keywords naturally to help search engines find it

• Add multimedia (photos, infographics, videos) to increase engagement

• Keep it short and scannable500600 words is a good length

• Include hyperlinks to your site or related content

• Avoid hype languagestick to facts, impact, and authenticity

Remember: press releases are not adstheyre announcements.

Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced marketers sometimes get it wrong. Common errors include:

• Writing like a blog post or sales pitch

• Forgetting to add contact information

• Making the release too long or too vague

• Not tailoring the content for the audience or publication

• Sending it without proofreading (typos damage trust fast)

If you treat your press release like a professional conversationnot a flyeritll land better with media and readers alike.

Final Thoughts

Press releases are far from outdated. In fact, for purpose-driven brands like Saromben, theyre one of the few tools that offer both credibility and control.

When shared through meaningful platforms like Portal Narasi, a well-crafted press release becomes more than just a news itemit becomes part of your brand story. It can shape how people view your work, support your mission, and trust your voice.

In 2025, that kind of communication power still matters.