Press releases can be targeted directly to consumers, without the media filter. Here are 4 new ways to use press releases to win sales.

n a tough economy, with businesses and consumers cutting back on spending, even the best advertising may not be enough to sway shoppers. Right now, PR is an indispensable part of a campaign thanks to its influence over consumers’ buying decisions. When asked to rank the factors that sway them to buy a product or service, many Americans cite reading about it or seeing a recommendation. And though PR tactics that earn news coverage are still standard practice, these new PR tactics can help you gain credibility and grab the attention of customers.

It all starts with a press release. But it’s what you do with your release these days that counts. Here are four ways to use PR as a conduit to sales. …more at Not Your Father’s Marketing Campaign – Public relation tactics – Entrepreneur.com.

Flickr photo credit: *hiro008