How
is a press release written?
Press Releases briefly summarize the essence of
the story. They provide news reporters and writers in the Media with a
quick glance and overview of the issues. A press release should be
written as if it were going to be reproduced as a news story on the
front page of the most important newspaper in the world. Since it is the
first source for the reporter it should convey the importance of the
issues involved in a factual, orderly manner. News Releases are
generally factually oriented, although they can be written in the format
of a feature story. They must incorporate all the 5 Ws of Journalism,
explaining the who, what, where, when, and why of the story. (top)
Is
there an accepted format for a press release?
Yes. One page is best. Use one idea per paragraph,
create simple sentences, use proper grammar, check spelling, eliminate
typos, and use the accepted format. Contrary to popular convention,
press releases written in feature format can be effective.
Five Steps for Writing a Press Release:
- 5W's when gathering information and
include that information in the press releases; Who, What, When,
Where, Why.
- Begin with the most important and
close with the least, building downward in a pyramid structure.
- State in the first paragraph the what,
where, and time of the event.
- Include quotes from the people
involved and some colorful description.
- Be factual, don't exaggerate. (top)
Who
or what is "the media"?
The media includes community, local, regional,
national and international newspapers, general interest, specialty and
trade magazines and publications, radio, television, wire services and
the Internet. It includes the trade publications associated with the
organization. (top)
How
do you target press release distribution to the media?
Distribution of the press kit or a single press
release involves the need for a comprehensive analysis of the
organizations target media market with input from the marketing and
business plans. Targeted media include outlets, which directly, and
sometimes indirectly, affect the business of the organization. (top)
Who
receives a news or press release?
Press and media outlets include national,
international, regional, and city newspapers, local community papers,
wire services, business oriented magazines, E-Zines, free Internet
sites, trade publications, general circulation publications, television
and radio stations. (top)
Examples
of Press Releases
The following links provide sample press
releases that can be tailored to your particular need.
