Entrepreneurs like Tony Robbins preach the importance of leveraging opportunities to maximize business potential. One powerful tool in your arsenal for achieving that is the press release. Whether you’re a small business, startup, or author looking to boost visibility and attract quality customers, a well-crafted press release can make a huge difference.
Apple’s 2007 press release for the iPhone is an iconic example of the power of a press release. It set a new standard for product launches and showed how a well-written press release can grab the attention of both the media and consumers. Needless to say, it had a big impact on the tech industry.
Today, we’re going to guide you through the process of formatting your press release submission, along with tips for effective media outreach and some great distribution services like eReleases. Let’s dive in!
Why You Need a Press Release
First, let’s talk about why press releases still matter. In an era dominated by social media and instant communication, a press release offers a structured way to share news with journalists and the public. A well-written release can:
- Generate Media Coverage: It can capture the attention of journalists looking for stories in your industry
- Drive Website Traffic: A strong press release can boost your search engine optimization (SEO) efforts and bring traffic to your website
- Establish Credibility: Getting coverage in reputable media outlets builds trust with potential customers and partners
The bottom line? A press release can be a game-changer for your business, helping you to get noticed and stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Key Components of a Press Release
A press release isn’t just a bunch of facts thrown together. It’s a story, and every good story has a structure. Here is a press release formatting guide to the essential components you need:
1. Headline
Your headline is your first impression, and it has to be compelling; aim for clarity and impact. A good rule of thumb is to keep it under 80 characters. It should summarize the essence of your news and make people want to read more.
2. Subheadline
This isn’t mandatory, but it’s a great opportunity to provide more context. Think of the subheadline as a chance to give a little extra flavor to your headline.
3. Dateline
This should include your location and the date of the release. For example, “DALLAS, TX – November 2, 2024 -” This gives journalists immediate context for your announcement.
4. Introduction
Your opening paragraph should answer the who, what, when, where, and why. This is your hook–the part that makes the reader want to keep going. Think of it as the lead of a news article.
5. Body
This is where you dive deeper into the details. Include relevant data, background information, and quotes from key figures in your organization. This is your chance to add color to your story and provide substance.
6. Boilerplate
At the end of your press release, include a boilerplate about your company. This brief paragraph should summarize your mission, vision, and achievements. It’s your chance to showcase what makes your business unique.
7. Contact Information
Always provide contact details for someone in your organization who can answer questions. This should include a name, phone number, and email address.
Formatting Your Press Release
Now that we’ve covered the content, let’s talk about formatting. A clean, professional format is crucial for making a good impression. Here’s how to do it:
1. Structure It Properly
A standard structure is key to readability. Here’s a basic outline:
- Headline: Centered, bold, and in a larger font size
- Subheadline: Optional, but if you use one, make it slightly smaller than the headline
- Dateline: Bold
- Body: Left-aligned, standard font (like Times New Roman or Arial), 12-point size
2. Keep It Concise
Aim for around 400-600 words. Journalists are busy, and a concise message is more likely to get read. Use short paragraphs and bullet points for clarity.
3. Use Active Voice
Writing in the active voice makes your press release more engaging. Instead of saying, “A new product was launched by our company,” say, “Our company launched a new product.” It’s more direct and impactful.
4. Incorporate Quotes
Quotes add a human element to your press release and can provide credibility. For example:
“Launching this product is a major milestone for us,” said Jane Smith, CEO of [Your Company]. “It highlights our commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.”
5. Include Hyperlinks
If applicable, include hyperlinks to your website, product pages, or relevant articles. This not only provides journalists with easy access to additional information but can also help drive traffic to your site.
6. Use Visuals Wisely
If your press release will be distributed online, consider including high-quality images, infographics, or videos. Visuals can enhance engagement and help tell your story better.
7. Proofread and Edit
This is non-negotiable: Typos or grammatical errors can hurt your credibility. Always have someone else read it to catch mistakes you might miss.
Press Release Submission Tips
Now that you’ve got your press release ready, let’s talk about ways to maximize visibility. Use these tips to get the most bang for your buck:
1. Build a Targeted Media List
Create a list of journalists, bloggers, and publications that cover your industry. Personalize your media outreach strategies by considering what type of stories they typically write about. Tailoring your message can make all the difference.
2. Craft a Compelling Email Pitch
When you reach out, don’t just attach the press release. Write a brief email that highlights the significance of your news and why it’s relevant to their audience. Make it personal; reference their recent work if possible.
3. Timing is Key
Consider the timing of your submission. Avoid Mondays and Fridays, as those days are often busy for journalists. Mid-week–Tuesday to Thursday–is typically the best time to send your press release.
4. Follow Up Respectfully
If you don’t hear back after a week or so, it’s okay to send a polite follow-up email. Just don’t overdo it–one or two follow-ups should be sufficient.
5. Be Available for Questions
When journalists express interest, be ready to provide additional information or interviews. This can lead to deeper coverage and a stronger connection with the media.
Press Release Distribution Services
Getting your press release into the right hands is crucial. That’s where distribution services like eReleases come in. They specialize in helping you share your story with the right audience, amplifying your message through targeted media outreach.
When you distribute a press release via eReleases, you’re not just sending it into the void. You’re connecting with journalists, bloggers, and influencers who are actively seeking new stories. This targeted approach can lead to valuable media coverage that boosts your credibility and visibility.
Imagine your news getting featured in reputable outlets–what that could do for your brand! It’s not just about media mentions; it’s about driving quality traffic to your website and attracting customers who are genuinely interested in what you offer.
In a world where attention is the currency, eReleases empowers you to stand out. If you want to grow your business and establish a solid presence, leveraging press release distribution is a smart move.
Effective Media Outreach Strategies
Once you’ve submitted your press release, you need to actively engage with the media. Here are some strategies to improve your outreach:
1. Build Relationships With Journalists
Don’t wait until you have news to engage with journalists. Share their articles, comment on their posts, and participate in discussions. Building a relationship can make them more likely to cover your future announcements.
2. Leverage Social Media
Use your company’s social media channels to promote your press release. Tag relevant journalists and media outlets in your posts. This increases visibility and encourages sharing, which can help amplify your message.
3. Create an Online Newsroom
Consider establishing an online newsroom on your website. This is a dedicated space where journalists can find your press releases, images, and background information. It makes it easier for the media to cover your story.
4. Monitor Media Coverage
Use tools like Google Alerts or media monitoring services to track mentions of your company and industry. This will help you gauge the effectiveness of your press releases and adjust your strategy accordingly.
5. Measure and Analyze Results
After your press release goes out, measure its impact. Look at metrics such as website traffic, social media engagement, and media coverage. Analyzing these results will help you refine your future PR efforts.
Craft Your Press Release Submission With eReleases
A well-crafted and formatted press release submission can be a powerful tool for your business, especially if you’re a small business, startup, or author looking to increase visibility and attract quality customers.
Ready to elevate your brand’s visibility? With eReleases, you can get a professionally written press release at an affordable rate, complete with a fast turnaround. Our team crafts your message and targets it to a hand-selected group of journalists, reporters, bloggers, and influencers most likely to share your story.
With access to an internal database of over 1.7 million media contacts, we ensure your release lands in the right hands. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to gain quality media coverage that drives traffic and boosts your business. Get started with eReleases today and watch your brand soar!