If you’re frustrated that your business isn’t showing up where it should in local Google searches, you’re not alone. Every day, countless small businesses struggle for visibility while a handful of competitors seem to effortlessly dominate the rankings. What’s their secret? Surprisingly, it’s not always about spending thousands on ads or hiring high-end SEO firms. Many are using one incredibly simple and cost-effective strategy: local press releases for SEO. In this article, you'll discover how a $0 press release can create a ripple effect of backlinks, mentions, and credibility — and how you can use this powerful tactic to outrank your competition.

The Underestimated Power of Local Press Releases

Local press releases are often overlooked because they sound "old school." But make no mistake: in today's digital age, they are one of the fastest ways to earn high-authority backlinks. When a local newspaper, blog, or news site picks up your story, they typically link back to your website. This instantly boosts your site's credibility in Google's eyes. More links from trusted, geographically relevant sources mean higher rankings — especially for local search queries.

Consider a local bakery that announced its new location via a press release. Within two weeks, it was featured on three local news sites and a regional lifestyle blog. Result? A 28% increase in local search traffic without spending a dime on ads.

How Press Releases Create a Ripple Effect of SEO Benefits

When your press release gets picked up, it doesn't just result in one backlink — it can spark a chain reaction. Other media outlets and bloggers often republish or link to the original story. Google notices this pattern of activity, interpreting it as "buzz," which strengthens your site’s authority.

Additionally, press releases can improve your business’s chances of appearing in Google News — a highly trusted source that many users rely on. This extra visibility boosts your brand recognition and positions you as a credible local leader. Over time, consistent press release distribution can lead to a solid foundation of backlinks and brand mentions, making it harder for competitors to catch up.

How to Craft a Press Release That Actually Gets Picked Up

The key to success lies in creating newsworthy content. A boring or overly promotional release won't get attention. Instead, focus on:

• Announcing something genuinely new: a new location, a community event, a new service.
• Including strong local ties: mention the local community, neighborhoods, and partnerships.
• Crafting a compelling headline: make it informative and attention-grabbing.
• Offering quotable statements: add a memorable quote from your business owner or a key team member.

Another smart move? Add high-quality images and contact information to make it easy for journalists and bloggers to feature your story. Don't forget to optimize your press release by naturally incorporating relevant keywords into the text for maximum SEO impact.

 Real-World Example: Small Business Press Release Success

Take "Joe's Auto Repair" — a local auto shop in a mid-sized town. Joe issued a simple press release announcing the launch of free Saturday workshops on basic car maintenance. Within a month, Joe was featured in five local blogs, two regional news sites, and even the town's Chamber of Commerce newsletter. His website traffic increased by 37%, and he gained five new backlinks from authority sites in the auto repair and local news niches. All from a free press release that took an hour to write.

You don’t have to be a PR expert or spend thousands to see similar results. You just have to start — and stay consistent.

1. How long should a local press release be? A good local press release should be between 400-600 words. It needs to be concise but rich in information. Journalists appreciate when they can quickly scan a release and see the story’s newsworthiness.

2. Where should I distribute my press release? Start with local newspapers, community blogs, and regional news websites. Also consider distribution through free or affordable online press release services focused on local markets.

3. How often should I send out a press release? Aim for at least one press release per quarter. However, if you have frequent newsworthy updates (events, awards, new hires), monthly releases can build faster momentum.

4. What if no one picks up my press release? Don't be discouraged! Use it as content on your website’s blog, in email newsletters, or share it across your social media channels. Even without external pickup, a press release can still drive SEO benefits by adding fresh, optimized content to your own platforms.

5. Do press releases still work for SEO in 2025? Absolutely — when done right. Google's emphasis on E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) means high-quality, relevant backlinks from news sites are more valuable than ever.

If you’re serious about improving your local SEO, it’s time to stop ignoring the power of press releases. A well-timed, well-crafted announcement can lead to backlinks, increased visibility, and higher Google rankings without breaking your budget. Your competitors are already leveraging this strategy — don't let them widen the gap. Get started with your own local press release today and position yourself as the go-to business in your community.

Want to discover what your business is doing that is newsworthy? In a complimentary Press Power Half Hour, we’ll spot the angle, shape the pitch, and give reporters a reason to call you first. Just click this link and schedule a time.