Michael Trunko on Published Articles as Marketing Tools

Aug. 1, 2012 - PRLog -- Published articles and case studies about your company’s products, services or projects are much more effective and a lot cheaper than any other form of promotion or advertising. It’s not uncommon to get $5,000, $10,000, $20,000 or more worth of free media coverage with each article! And, your online articles will continue to generate results and be in the limelight for years to come.

Studies show that nine times as many people read articles than ads. Your message has far more credibility as a feature than an ad. People, when reached by advertising, often have a skeptical attitude toward it. After all, someone is trying to sell them something. Published articles, on the other hand, reach people in the form in which they receive all other news.

When writing an article, it should be objective and truthful. It should contain solid, straightforward information. The article should not be a blatant sales pitch for your company, but it can highlight the qualities and features of your products or services.

Besides the obvious benefits of published articles (generates leads and sales; positions you as an expert; reaches new customers and markets; builds your company's image; increases your name recognition; establishes additional credibility for your company, products and services; etc.), they also add valuable content to your website.

Copies of your articles should always be displayed on your website under a ‘news’ or ‘in the media’ section. In addition to showcasing your articles and case studies on your website, you can also submit them to appropriate magazines and trade publications. Before submitting your article to any media, be sure it is written in the same format used by the publication.

Without a doubt, the long-term value and effectiveness of articles far exceed that of advertising. You’ll get a good response when your articles initially run, and you’ll continue to get results with your online presence. Plus, you can use reprints of your published articles, which are an excellent vehicle to extend your market reach. Many articles can be turned into brochures.

If you’re not currently using articles in your marketing strategy, you’re missing out on huge opportunities. Even if you have no new products or projects in the works, you’re probably sitting on at least a dozen publishable stories right now! And, each of these stories could have a significant and positive impact on your sales and profits.

To learn more about writing and publishing articles or case studies, contact the author.