How to write a press release

INTRODUCTION

A press release is a written document written by an individual on behalf of an organization which wants the general public to know about something interesting or important. It can be released and distributed through the various forms of media including the internet, television, radio, wire services, magazines and newspaper publications. It contains useful, accurate, interesting and news worthy information about the organization or news event. There are several main elements that should be contained in a press release. Let's see the steps to follow to write a press release.

INSTRUCTION
Easy to Medium

STEPS

Step One

Write an informative headline that informs the reader of the story in one sentence. It shouldn't have details. For instance, "Acme company to open a new store on July 25th in Springfield, Illinois". Make sure it is in bold. If you would like to add additional detail, you can add a sub-headline which gives an additional summary of the press release.

Step Two

Include the date and the city where the news release is coming from on the first line.

Step Three

Give an introduction. In one paragraph explain the whole story. This should be the summary of the whole story in a few sentences. Make the sentences as short and concise as possible, while giving the intended meaning at the same time.

Step Four

Give the details. This is where you can give additional developments in the story. You can quote important persons involved in the story. You can include any information that you think is important for the public to know, and draw attention to important details. If there is anything about your organization or the event that you would like to add to the press release, add a paragraph or two.

Step Five
Give a short description of the organizations involved in the story. This description can and should be used in all press releases.

Step Six

Add the close symbol. This is generally -30-.

Step Seven

Give contact information for the organization. This should begin with a name of a designated contact person. You can give whatever means you like as ways to contact you. You can give a mailing address, email address, phone number, or however the contact person should be reached in case a journalist would like to follow up on something related to the press release.

TIPS

• Keep your sentences short but meaningful.
  
• Use as few sentences as possible to convey the most possible meaning.
  
• Use language that everyone can understand.
  
• Be favorable toward your organization, but without stretching the truth.
  
• Use concrete facts, not speculation.
  
• Hire a media distributor to make sure your news reaches the biggest audience possible.

WARNINGS

• Check you facts. It would not be good to put something untrue in the press release.
  
• Don't use eloquent or too sophisticated words
  
• Stick with facts, and avoid editorials, speculation and personal opinions.
  
• Have the press release approved by the head of the organization before releasing it to the press.