Tips for writing an effective news release
June 30, 2010
cjenkins8
Decide why you are writing a press release and determine your focus. Make sure the information is newsworthy.
Keep it short and to the point. Usually, press releases are no more than one page. Start with a brief description of the news, then distinguish who announced it, and not the other way around.
Ask yourself, “How are people going to relate to this and will they be able to connect?” Tell the audience that the information is intended for them and why they should continue to read it.
Make sure the first 10 words of your release are effective, as they are the most important. Create a headline and center it in bold type just above the first line of the body of the press release. Headlines typically highlight the most important, significant or shocking fact in the release.
Print the words “FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE” in the top left-hand margin in all caps. Follow this line with relevant contact information: name, title, address, phone number, email address. Create a dateline – the first line of the body of your press release – that includes the city where the release is generated and the date (i.e. LOS ANGELES, CALIF. – January 1, 2000).
Center these marks, ” # # #” or “-30-”, at the bottom of the page to indicate the end of your release.
Avoid excessive use of adjectives and fancy language. Make certain the first paragraph includes all the vital information: the where, when, why, what and who. Deal with the facts.
Make sure you wait until you have something with enough substance to issue a release.
Make it as easy as possible for media representatives to do their jobs.
Print your release on high quality paper using a good laser. You only get one chance to make a solid first impression.
http://www.press-release-writing.com/10-essential-tips-for-writing-press-releases/
http://www.ehow.com/how_8793_write-proper-press-release.html
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