How to Use Press Releases to Tell Stories That Stick

When Saromben, a local ethical lifestyle brand, started expanding its community initiatives, they knew a social media post wouldn’t be enough. They needed something stronger, more lasting, and more credible—a press release.

Press releases may seem old-school, but in 2025, they are one of the most reliable ways to share brand stories that resonate and stay relevant online.

What Makes a Press Release Powerful?

A press release isn’t just a formal announcement. It’s a communication bridge between your brand and the public—especially the media, investors, and partners.

It helps:

• Frame the narrative you want others to share

• Reach journalists looking for credible sources

• Improve SEO through consistent mentions and backlinks

• Create a permanent, searchable digital record

For brands like Saromben, a single press release about their artisan program was republished across four media outlets, shared by bloggers, and picked up by a sustainability podcast—without any ad spend.

Why Structure Matters

A well-structured press release isn’t long—it’s sharp.

Here’s the basic format that media outlets expect:

1. Headline: Short, clear, informative. Think newsworthy, not clickbait.

2. Lead paragraph: Hit the 5Ws—who, what, where, when, and why.

3. Supporting paragraphs: Provide context, background, and useful details.

4. Quote section: Include a human voice—founder, team member, or partner.

5. Boilerplate: A 2–3 sentence description of your company.

6. Contact information: Let readers and journalists reach out easily.

Optional additions: high-quality images, links to videos, or a related campaign page.

Getting the Right People to Read It

You’ve written the press release. Now what?

Posting it on your blog is a good first step. But for maximum impact, distribute it through a trusted third-party platform—one that values storytelling.

That’s where Portal Narasi comes in.

Unlike typical PR wire services, Portal Narasi focuses on narrative-rich content with social value. They publish press releases that feel like real stories—not just company updates.

When Saromben shared their press release through Portal Narasi about their partnership with female-led cooperatives, it didn’t just get exposure. It became part of a national conversation about gender equity and entrepreneurship.

That’s the difference between “news” and “news that travels.”

When to Use a Press Release

You don’t need a viral moment to justify a press release. In fact, the best ones often highlight real, meaningful progress.

Here are a few great reasons to publish a release:

• You’re launching a new product, service, or campaign

• You’re partnering with another organization or figure

• You’re entering a new market or opening a new location

• You’re hosting a public event, workshop, or expo

• Your team has received awards or certifications

• You’ve completed a CSR, education, or impact program

• You’re publishing original research or insights

If it moves your brand forward—it’s worth sharing formally.

Press Release + SEO = Long-Term Visibility

Besides media coverage, one of the biggest benefits of press releases is search engine visibility.

Google indexes press releases, especially those hosted on news sites. That means:

• People searching for your brand may find your release first

• You gain more domain authority through backlinks

• Your keywords—product names, regions, services—get indexed long-term

Here’s what Saromben does: they include natural, relevant keywords like ethical fashion Indonesia, link back to their product or “About Us” page, and use human-sounding language throughout.

It works. Their releases often appear on the first page of search results for key industry terms.

Avoid These Common Pitfalls

To keep your press release strong and effective, avoid these frequent mistakes:

• Being too vague or abstract – Make your message specific.

• Using marketing jargon – Avoid fluff like “innovative synergy.”

• Skipping the quote – A release without a voice feels cold.

• Forgetting contact details – Always invite further conversation.

• Trying to sound impressive instead of honest – People can tell.

The goal isn’t to wow. The goal is to communicate clearly and earn trust.

Final Thoughts

In 2025, people want more than ads—they want truth, impact, and clarity. A press release offers all three.

For purpose-driven brands like Saromben, using press releases regularly has helped them grow not just visibility, but also real relationships—with media, with partners, and with a community that listens.

When distributed through platforms like Portal Narasi, your press release becomes more than just an announcement—it becomes a conversation starter.

So next time you have a milestone, don’t just tell your followers. Tell the world—officially, and meaningfully.