A press release is a short and informative document that individuals and business owners often send to media outlets. The press release must include the who, what, when, where, how and why of the subject being addressed. The press release begins with contact information of the person who is writing it. After this the writer creates a compelling headline that gives the reader an idea of what will be discussed in the press release. After the headline, there is a brief overview of the topic of the press release. Once the writer does this, he will include the location and date of the press release. Here are some tips on writing effective press releases.
Information needs to be relevant and newsworthy
When you write a press release for media outlets, it needs to be timely, relevant and newsworthy. For example, if your city just decided to boost the funding of its' public libraries, you can write a press release about the recent donations of several local nonprofit organizations to these libraries in light of the city's recent decision. Or, if tax credits will be offered to new businesses in your state to improve economic development, you can send a press release about how your company will open some new franchises and is hiring new employees.
Research your target readers
This is important because your press release needs to be relevant to the audience you want to reach. For example, if your press release is announcing brand new business grants for mothers wishing to start home based businesses, then you need to tailor the press release to this group of readers. In your press release discuss the desire of some mothers to achieve a better work-family balance and how these grants can help them reach this goal by giving them the funds needed to start businesses.
Pay close attention to writing and formatting style
Before you write the press release, you should look over the editorial guidelines set forth by press release distribution companies. You should get familiar with the Associated Press style of writing and, if you need assistance, seek help from a company that helps writers with press releases. By doing this, you ensure acceptance of your press release.
Get specific with the details
Press releases should not be written in a generic manner. The best press releases are those that include specific details about what you're promoting. For example, if you are promoting a line of essential oils that are designed to be used on babies' hair that is curly or wavy, talk about the challenges that mothers face in styling this kind of hair and how your line of oils will solve the problem. You can discuss how the oils will keep the scalp moisturized and add shine to curly or wavy hair on babies.
Writing a great press release takes organization, research and hard work, but it will be worth it when you see your press release in print or online. In addition, there might be increased interest in your services, products or cause once readers see your document.
Article sources
What is A Press Release?
http://money.howstuffworks.com/business-communications/how-press-releases-work1.htm
10 Essential Tips for Writing Press Releases
http://www.ala.org/alcts/confevents/preswk/events/10tips
The 12 Ironclad Rules for Issuing Press Releases
https://blog.kissmetrics.com/ironclad-rules-for-press/
14 Tips For Writing A News Release
http://service.prweb.com/resources/article/14-tips-writing-news-release/