How to write an effective Press Release
 
How to write an effective Press Release

 
The following is a step by step guide on how to create an eye catching Press Release, journalists will want to publish.
 
This document is FREE and can be made available to anyone for reference.
 
 

 
 

Consider First:
Whois the target audience?
Whatdo you want the readers to take away from the press release?
Why is the press release being written? To broadcast information, increase business, update clients? Is there a just cause for the release of the information? Is the information newsworthy and interesting?
Whenis the best time to release the information? Could it be incorporated with a more recent news event to keep it topical?
Whereare you intending to have the press release published? Which newspapers and magazines are sourced by your target audience?
Key guidelines:
·         Make sure there are NO spelling mistakes, grammatical errors, inaccurate quotes and false information.
·         Keep it concise.
·         Keep it factual and with no embellishments.
·         Try very hard to write objectively to avoid looking biased.
·         Time the release carefully. Yesterday’s news is not going to sell.
·         Write in 3<sup>rd</sup> person. Avoid “you”, “I”, “we” and “us”. Use “he” and “they”.
·         Use quotes to provide an “authoritative” edge.
The Body of the Press Release:
1.   On your company letterhead, date the document and write PRESS RELEASE in the middle of the page. You could also write PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE. Use capital letters and bold the font.
2.   Create a relevant catchy headline. One that will grab your attention. It must be short and simple using no more than 10 words.
3.   Identify the information you want to write about. Collate and organise your facts. 4.   The 1<sup>st</sup> paragraph has to grab the reader’s attention and hook them in. What is it that is interesting and unique about the information you have? Does the story have a “human interest”, perhaps about a local person? Has a new discovery been made that will change the course of events forever? Did something humorous happen? Something controversial? 5.   The body of the Press Release expands on the details. 6.   Add quotes from interesting people (perhaps a local celebrity) or those who have the relevant professional knowledge to add importance to your story. Always ask permission to use these quotes. 7.   Send a photograph along with your release. It too must be of good quality and engaging. If there is a great photo opportunity invite photographers along to document the event (see notes to Editor). 8.   End the release by briefly detailing your company’s contact information. Write END. 9.       You may need to add additional information for the editor or journalist. Under the heading “Notes to Editor” include any additional company information you on your company. When it was launched, company accomplishments and so on. Mention the venue, date and time for any photo opportunities there may be. If the journalist is too busy to cover the event arrange for photographs to be taken and forwarded on. 10.   Follow up with the journalist by telephone to ensure that they have all the information needed. Choose a suitable time to call, not when they are busy.   *TIP
Build relationships with local press contacts. Journalists write about information they find interesting. They receive 100’s of press releases every week. Make it as easy as possible to decide what story to cover. If a story does not get published ask why so you may get better ready for next time.
 
 

Judy Cable PA Services

 

 

For all your office related needs without the expensive overheads

 

 
www.judycablepservices.com

Date: 15/09/2008
Category: BUSINESS EDITORIAL

Added By: JudyCable on 15/09/2008 16:34:10
Number of Views: 152

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