Microsoft Buying Yahoo: Rumors Reappear
No commentsDavid A. Utter
A year ago, the two companies were reportedly in talks about a
merger, but those conversations were dismissed as rumors and
speculation. Well, here’s Microsoft and Yahoo 2.0.
A pairing in the spirit of a superhero teamup could happen if the
latest chatter about Yahoo and Microsoft proves true. Once again,
a potential merger is being considered, as neither company has
made gains against Google’s search and advertising dominance.
The Wall Street Journal said last year’s talks have become this
year’s discussions. Both Yahoo and Microsoft have been rejiggering
their online advertising products, but have not been able to eat
into Google’s lead.
“Short of a wholesale merger, Microsoft could spin its online
group into a separately-run Yahoo, in return for a Yahoo stake,”
the WSJ said. “Though a person familiar with the matter says
Microsoft would likely want to acquire Yahoo.”
Microsoft would have to take on some debt to do that, despite its
massive pile of cash and equivalents. Yahoo is up to a market cap
of over $38 billion, thanks to rumors of the Microsoft talks that
began in the New York Post.
The Post carried a story earlier in the week that claimed
Microsoft was ready to purchase 24/7 Real Media, in order to
offset Google’s DoubleClick deal as well as Yahoo’s Right Media
purchase. A Microsoft spokesperson would not comment on the
story to WebProNews, citing the article as rumors and speculation.
If Microsoft were to make a deal with Yahoo, the WSJ thinks
there could be some massive upheaval in Yahoo’s executive ranks.
Considering Yahoo’s performance for shareholders over the past
couple of years, it’s hard to think of that as a negative here.
Powerful Press Release Distribution Tips
No commentsBy Diana Barnum
While press release writing is important, press release distribution plays an equally important role in your return on Ãnvestment (ROI) with this marketing / public relations tool. Because without targeted distribution, many prospects, clients and other interested parties may not even read your latest announcement or hear about it via other channels; TV, radio, print publications, etc.
In order to bring your news to light with more of your targeted audience, try some of these tips for a more successful distribution:
Media LÃst Management
Start a folder on your computer and in hard copy form for media lists in order to keep a lÃst of contacts readily available and updated. Identify media outlets - both online and off - in your targeted industries; for example: Business and Marketing. Add local, regional, national and International channels to cover television, radio, newspapers, magazines, online publications, newswire and other services.
A targeted media lÃst is an invaluable tool for most businesses. The best way to build your lÃst is to carefully watch, read and listen, then track media publications and shows, and to identify reporters and producers who would be interested in your story. Contact the media outlets as needed for their most recent contact name, email address, telephone and fax number, before sending your information.
Tip: Using contact management software program such as ACT! or Maximizer for this purpose can help you build and maintain relationships with the media. Even using Excel to create your own spreadsheets helps with organization.
There are several sources online that will help you build your media lÃst; however, keep in mind that not all of these sources will have up-to-date media information.
Newswires
Newswires distribute your press release directly to editors, other media outlets like Reuters and they also publish the press releases on their website. Many journalists rely on newswire sites for information and story ideas. Wires are often used by largër companies and non-profÃt organizations. They have the advantage of immediately reaching a broad range of media outlets across the country. The cost is usually $275 - $600 to send a single release, with pricing based on the number of words in your release (a minimum word count will usually apply.)
Mail, Fax, or Email
You can send the news release directly to the media yourself, using the mail, fax, or email. When in doubt about the best option, ask the journalists you will be sending your release to. This can have the advantage of creating a more personal connection with the people you send the release to. It can also be a more cost-effective option if you are targeting a small lÃst of journalists.
Database Building
Newswires offër a fast way to send your press release to a large number of editors. However, you can also build your own lÃst of media contacts using any of a number of media databases. Most charge either a monthly, annual or per use subscription fee. Search online for “media databases” and “media lists.”
Timing
It is best to send your news release early in the day and you will have a better chance of getting your story noticed if your release is not sent on a busy news day. For example, sending a news release out as a major strike or natural disaster was taking place would not be good timing. Mondays and Tuesdays are usually busy news days and by Friday most assignments have been handed out as journalists get ready for the weekend.
Helpful Tips:
1. Don’t send email press releases with attachments - they will be deleted immediately upon receipt.
2. If sending an email release, make sure to write the release within the body of the message.
3. Don’t bug editors. Editors receive hundreds of press releases on a daily basis. Chances are you will irritate most editors by making a second contact to ask if they received your press release.
4. Know deadlines of editors. If you are sending a time-sensitive release, don’t expect a magazine editor to cover your event scheduled for next week. Find out what the appropriate “lead time” is to send your press release for possible distribution in their media.
5. If writing about a web site, make sure the site is updated before you send your release. Editors will visit the site if they have an interest in your product/service.
