Crafting an Engaging News Release for Your Company
Writing a news release, also known as a press release, is an important skill for marketing and communications professionals. A well-crafted news release can attract attention to your company, product, or event, and potentially lead to significant media coverage. By following a few steps and using clear, concise language, anyone can draft an engaging news release.
Understand the Purpose
It's crucial to know the goal of the news release. The primary purpose is to inform the media and the public about something noteworthy your company is doing. Whether it's launching a new product, announcing an event, or sharing company news, your release should highlight the announcement's significance.
Grab Attention with a Compelling Headline
The headline should capture the reader's interest. It must be clear, direct, and engaging. Think about what makes your news unique and convey that in a concise manner. For example, if your company is launching a solar-powered toaster, a suitable headline could be "Eco-Friendly Breakfasts: XYZ Company Introduces Solar-Powered Toaster."
Get to the Point
Journalists are often pressed for time and may not sift through unnecessary information. The first paragraph of your news release should address the who, what, when, where, why, and how of your story. This way, journalists can quickly grasp the essence of your news.
Write in the Third Person
Use the third person when writing news releases. This creates a formal tone and makes the release easier to turn into an article. Instead of using "we" or "I," use your company name or "the company."
Include Quotes
Quotes add a personal touch to your news release and are frequently used by journalists. Include a quote from a senior executive or relevant expert that provides insight or opinion not covered in the body of the release.
Provide Relevant Background
Your news release should contain information about your company or the specific project or product you’re announcing. Give enough context for someone unfamiliar with your company to understand the significance of your news. Keep it brief and focused.
Keep it Short and Sweet
Aim for a length of one page or about 300-500 words. If it’s too long, editors may overlook it, and the most important information could be missed. Focus on the critical points for clarity.
Make It Practical
Include practical details such as the date of the event or product release, pricing information, website URL, and contact information for your press liaison. Journalists should not have to search for essential details.
Edit and Proofread
Spelling or grammatical errors can undermine your news release's professionalism. Proofread several times before distribution, and consider having a colleague review it. Read it aloud to catch awkward phrasing or mistakes.
Distribute Your News Release
Once your news release is polished, distribute it to the appropriate media outlets. You can use a distribution service, email it directly to specific journalists, or post it to your company's newsroom.
Having a dedicated newsroom on your website can be an excellent way to keep all your company news centralized and easily accessible. Writing a clear and compelling news release is manageable. Focus on a strong headline, concise content, valuable quotes, and relevant information to ensure your news stands out.