When it comes to press releases and press release examples, there’s one golden rule: make it interesting. No one wants to read a yawn-inducing announcement about your company‘s new product line or latest fundraising round. But with a little creativity, you can craft a press release that is sure to capture people’s attention. Here are some tips on how to write a press release that gets results.
What is a Press Release?
A press release is a short, compelling story that is typically used to announce something newsworthy. The structure of a press release is simple: it starts with a headline, followed by a dateline and contact information, and then the body of the story. The body of the story is where you’ll find the who, what, where, when, and why of the story.
In addition, press releases often include quotes from key sources to add credibility to the story. Finally, press releases always end with a boilerplate – a brief description of the company or organization issuing the release. Press releases are an essential tool for getting media attention for your product or service. When written correctly, they can be extremely effective in generating buzz and interest.
Why Write a Press Release?
A press release is like a megaphone in your pocket. It’s a way to grab attention and get noticed. media relations firms) will often say that the real value of a press release is generating buzz and getting people talking about your product or service. However, if you’re crafty, you can use a press release to not only generate buzz but also create something newsworthy.
For example, imagine you have a new app that helps busy people make better choices with their time. You could write a press release that highlights how your app saved someone 10 hours last week. Suddenly, your app is no longer just an app, it’s a life-changing tool. And that’s the kind of story that gets people talking.
Types of Press Release Example
There are three main types of press releases: product, event, and company announcements.
- Product press releases are the most common type of press release. They are used to generate buzz around a new product launch or an update to an existing product.
- Event press releases are used to promote upcoming events, such as trade shows or conferences.
- Company announcement press releases are used to share news about the company, such as a new round of financing or a new executive hire.
No matter what type of press release you’re writing, the goal is always the same: to get media attention and generate positive publicity for your company.
How to Write a Press Release
A press release is an announcement written to generate media attention. A good press release is newsworthy, concise, and informative.
- Determine what makes your story newsworthy. Is it a new product, an innovative solution to a problem, or a significant milestone?
- Keep your press release concise by including only the most important details. Be sure to include who, what, when, where, and why.
- Provide additional information that will help journalists write their stories. This may include background information, quotes from experts, or even photos or videos.
By following these simple tips, you can write a press release that will capture the attention of the media and help spread the word about your story.
The Anatomy of a Press Release
A press release is a written statement that is typically sent to news media outlets to announce something newsworthy. The anatomy of a press release usually includes the following: a headline, dateline, introduces the who, what, where, when, why and how of the story, quotes from key people involved in the story, boilerplate information about the company (also known as a “About Us” section), and contact information.
While press releases traditionally follow this formulaic structure, more creative approaches are often used in order to grab the attention of busy reporters and editors. For example, some organizations will include a photo or video with their press release in order to make it more visually appealing.
Others will take a more unorthodox approach by writing their press release in the form of a short story or poem. Regardless of the approach that is taken, the goal is always the same: to get the media’s attention and generate positive publicity.
Headlines for Your Press Release
How do you write headlines that work?
Write headlines that are clear, interesting and make use of active language. Be sure to include keywords that will help your press release be found online. Your headline should also be short, no more than a few words. Keep in mind that your headline is the first thing that people will see, so make it count!
Paragraphs in Your Press Release
Press releases are an essential tool for promoting your business. They help you to get your message out to the media, and they can also be a great way to build relationships with journalists and other key influencers. However, crafting an effective press release is not always easy.
One of the most important aspects of a successful press release is its structure. Press releases should be divided into paragraphs that each focus on a different aspect of the story. The first paragraph should provide an overview of the story, while subsequent paragraphs should delve into more specific details.
By carefully structuring your press release, you can ensure that your message is clear and that it has the maximum impact.
Quotes in Your Press Release
If you’re using a press release to get attention for your business, there are a few ground rules that you should keep in mind.
- Understand that a press release is not an advertisement. It’s a way to get journalists interested in your story so that they will write about it or invite you to come on their show.
- Keep your quotes short and to the point. A long, rambling quote will just end up getting cut out by the editor.
- Make sure that your quotes add value to the story. If they don’t, it’s better to just leave them out.
By following these simple guidelines, you can make sure that your press release gets the attention it deserves.
Boilerplate Information in Your Press Release
If you want to write a press release that will get attention, start by ditching the boilerplate information. That’s the stuff that everyone includes, like the date and location of the event, the names of the attendees, and the like. Instead, focus on what makes your event special.
What are you doing that’s different from everyone else? Why should anyone care? If you can interestingly answer those questions, you’re much more likely to get the attention of busy reporters. And that’s the first step to getting your story told.
Submission of Your Press Release to the Media Outlets and Websites
You have a big news announcement. You’ve written a press release, and you’re planning to submit it to the media outlets and websites that your target audience reads. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare your submission:
- Make sure your press release is newsworthy. In other words, don’t submit a press release unless you have something truly newsworthy to announce. Remember, the media gets hundreds of submissions each day, so you need to make yours stand out.
- Personalize your press release. Take the time to research the specific media outlet or website you’re submitting to, and tailor your press release accordingly. Generic submissions will almost always be ignored.
- Follow the submission guidelines carefully. Each media outlet or website has its own guidelines for submitting press releases. Make sure you follow them to the letter, or your submission will likely be ignored.
- Include all relevant information. In addition to the basics (who, what, when, where, why), be sure to include any additional information that might be of interest to the reader. This could include quotes from key figures, statistics, or even background information on the story.
- Proofread your submission carefully. Once you’ve finished writing and editing your press release, be sure to proofread it one last time for any typos or errors. A clean, error-free submission will make a much better impression than one that’s full of mistakes.
By following these tips, you can increase your chances of having your press release accepted and published by the media outlet or website of your choice.
Tips to Improve the Chances of Your Press Release Being Published
The good news is that there are more media outlets than ever before, which means there are more opportunities to get your press release published. The bad news is that there are also more press releases competing for attention. So how can you improve your chances of having your press release published? Here are a few tips:
- Keep it short and to the point. Most journalists are busy people, so they don’t have time to wade through a lengthy press release. Make sure your press release is concise and clearly states the main points.
- Write for your audience. Don’t try to interest everyone in your press release – focus on writing for your target audience. This will make it more likely that someone will actually read it.
- Make it newsworthy. Journalists are always looking for stories that will be of interest to their readers, so make sure your press release has a news hook that will grab attention.
- Include quotes.Quotes from experts or people involved in the story can help to make your press release more credible and interesting.
- Follow up. Once you’ve sent out your press release, follow up with the journalist to make sure they received it and answer any questions they may have. This extra step can make a big difference in whether or not your press release is published.
By following these tips, you can improve your chances of having your press release published and getting the attention of your target audience.
Sample Press Releases
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT:
John Doe
555-555-1212
XYZ Company Releases New Product
XYZ company is proud to announce the release of its newest product, a revolutionary new widget that is sure to revolutionize the widget industry. With its innovative design and top-of-the-line features, this product is sure to be a hit with consumers. For more information, please contact John Doe at [email protected] or 555-555-1212.
About XYZ Company: XYZ company is a leading provider of widgets and other innovative products. Founded in 19xx, XYZ company has a long history of providing quality products to its customers. For more information, please visit www.xyzcompany.com.
As you can see from the example above, press releases should be clear, concise and free of any unnecessary fluff. They should also include all the essential information that journalists need to know about your story.
When writing a press release, it’s important to keep in mind that you’re not just writing for the media. You’re also writing for potential customers and clients who may be interested in your product or service. With that in mind, be sure to include all the important details about your story, such as who, what, when, where and why.
The Benefits of Writing and Publishing Press Releases
There’s no denying that writing and publishing press releases can be a great way to promote your business. After all, what could be more effective than getting your message in front of the eyes of journalists and other media professionals?
Not only does this give you the chance to get some free publicity, but it also helps to build relationships with key influencers. However, it’s important to keep in mind that not all press releases are created equal.
To maximize the benefits of this promotional tool, it’s important to take the time to craft quality releases that are likely to capture the attention of your target audience. With a little effort, writing and publishing press releases can be a highly effective way to boost your business.
Conclusion
A press release is a great way to get the word out about your company, new products, services or events. They are also a valuable tool for building relationships with members of the media. By writing and publishing press releases, you can improve your visibility online and increase traffic to your website. In addition, press releases can help you build relationships with members of the media and other influencers.
FAQs
What is a press release?
A press release is an official statement from a company or organization that is designed to garner media attention. Press releases are typically short and concise, containing all the essential information that reporters or editors need in order to write about a newsworthy event or announcement.
Why should I write a press release?
There are several reasons why you might want to write and publish a press release. Perhaps you have some new product or service that you want to announce to the world. Or maybe you’ve just been named one of the best places to work in your industry. Whatever the case may be, a well-written press release can help you spread the word about your newsworthy event or announcement to a wider audience.
How do I write a press release?
There is no one formula for writing a perfect press release. However, there are some general tips that you can follow to ensure that your release is both effective and well-written. First, be sure to keep your release concise and easy to read. Next, make sure to include all the essential information (who, what, where, when, why, and how). Finally, be sure to proofread your release before publishing it to ensure accuracy.
What are the benefits of writing and publishing press releases?
There are several benefits of writing and publishing press releases. For starters, press releases can help you generate publicity for your newsworthy events or announcements. In addition, well-written press releases can also help improve your brand’s visibility and credibility among consumers and business professionals alike. Finally, press releases can also help build relationships with members of the media.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when writing a press release?
There are a few common mistakes that you’ll want to avoid when writing your press release. First, avoid using industry jargon or technical terms that the average reader might not understand. Second, steer clear of making any false claims or exaggerations in your release. Finally, resist the temptation to “pad” your release with unnecessary information or fluff. Just stick to the facts and let the news speak for itself.
Do you have any tips for writing an effective press release?
Absolutely! Here are a few tips to help you write an effective press release:
- Keep it short and sweet: As we mentioned earlier, reporters and editors are often pressed for time. As such, you’ll want to keep your release as concise as possible. Aim for around one to two pages in length.
- Include all the essential information: Be sure to include who, what, where, when, why, and how in your press release. This will give reporters and editors everything they need to write a news story about your event or announcement.
- Use strong verbs: Choose active, descriptive words that pack a punch. Avoid using passive voice whenever possible.
- Proofread your work: Always proofread your press release before sending it out into the world. A few typos could make you look unprofessional and damage your credibility.
- Follow up: After you’ve sent out your press release, be sure to follow up with the reporter or editor who received it. This will help ensure that your release gets the attention it deserves.
By following these tips, you can write an effective press release that will help generate publicity for your newsworthy event or announcement.
