REWORK

Press Releases Are Spam

Feb 28, 2024

Discussing the ineffectiveness of traditional press releases in product launches. Emphasizing the shift towards direct-to-consumer approaches. Highlighting the importance of authenticity and personal connections in marketing. Sharing insights on maintaining direct communication and navigating social media attention culture.

32:14

Episode guests

David Heinemeier Hansson

Jason Fried

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Direct customer interaction outperforms traditional press releases in generating traffic and interest.

Authenticity and personal communication from founders build trust and credibility in marketing.

Deep dives

Press Releases vs. Direct Interaction with Customers

The podcast discusses the inefficacy of press releases compared to direct customer interaction. It highlights that press releases, despite generating coverage, often fail to translate into traffic or product interest. The hosts emphasize that press releases can feel formulaic and be unimpactful, suggesting that direct communication with customers through platforms like Twitter and blogs yields better results. By focusing on authenticity and direct dialogue, companies can build credibility and trust, leading to more meaningful engagement.

Questioning the Value of Traditional PR Practices

01:20

Introduction

2min

Redefining Marketing Communication: Moving Beyond Press Releases

18min

Preserving Authenticity and Credibility in Business Communications

5min

Navigating Social Media Engagement and Maintaining Mental Health in the Attention Economy

5min

Navigating Social Media Expectations and Authenticity

2min

Kimberly sits down with Jason Fried and David Heinemeier Hansson to discuss a chapter from REWORK titled “Press Releases Are Spam,” explaining why traditional press releases don't work well for their product launches. The conversation touches on the shift from formal press releases to direct-to-consumer approaches in today’s media scene. They touch upon the importance of hearing from authentic voices with skin in the game rather than relying on formulaic press releases. The founders also share insights on their personal involvement in marketing and the ups and downs of being engaged in the social media attention game.

Check out the full video episode on YouTube

Key Takeaways:

[0:40] - Press releases haven’t worked for 37signals

[6:59] - Awkward CEO making direct-to-consumer work sets a significant trend
[9:05] - Press releases signal desperation; personal connections more effective
[14:17] - Authenticity trumps marketing.
[20:24] - Don't delegate your voice; maintain direct communication

[25:52] - Balancing the trade-offs of social media
[27:15] - Discussing navigating the intensity of attention culture

Rework is a production of 37signals. You can find show notes and transcripts on our website. Full video episodes are available on YouTube and X.

If you have a question for Jason or David about a better way to work and run your business, leave us a voicemail at 708-628-7850 or email, and we might answer it on a future episode.

Links and Resources:

Books by 37signals

HEY World | HEY

The REWORK podcast

The Rework Podcast on YouTube

The 37signals Dev Blog

37signals on YouTube

@37signals on X

37signals on LinkedIn