How to Write a Great Press Release - A Complete Method
An Ultimate Guide To Write A Press Release
Have you ever considered writing Press Releases as a writer?
Probably not, since the “freelance writing” conjures up images of people writing blog posts and copywriting.
However, any written material that a client may need falls under the umbrella of freelance writing.
And that’s fantastic if you want to work from home as a freelance writer!
Learning how to write a press release example and adding this service to your portfolio will help you get more paying freelance writing work!
So, if you’re wondering how to write a press release, here’s everything you need to know about press releases, including examples of how to write a business press release.
What is a Press Release?
A press release, also known as a media release or a press statement, is a document that is sent to members of the media in the hopes of them covering the story.
A press release for a case contains details of an event or news story that the client wishes to bring to the media’s attention.
Since the content is prepackaged, media outlets enjoy press releases because they help them save money on finding news. Journalists save time because they don’t have to study and write the article themselves.
Readers nowadays expect immediate knowledge, putting pressure on media organizations to deliver a large amount of content in a short amount of time.
And this is ideal for a developing freelance writer looking for work.
They can quickly obtain fascinating stories as well as the requisite details to publish them using press releases.
It is a cost-effective way for a client needing a press release to advertise their product and brand.
Furthermore, press releases are sent to more than just journalists and news organizations. Companies tend to put them up on their websites, too.
This is what attracts freelance authors to writing press releases!
How to Write a Press Release
Press releases aren’t as challenging to write as they seem, mainly when the client provides you with all of the details you need!
A press release is essentially a brief burst of information that businesses wish to disseminate to the public.
Clients will employ authors to handle press releases, ensuring concise, descriptive, and well-written.
Again, the procedure is simple. Here’s how to put together the ideal press release.
How Long Should a Press Release Be?
A press release should be brief and to the point.
A press release is usually just 300–400 words long, or three to four short paragraphs.
While you want to give helpful information to the media outlets reading the press release, keep in mind that they are busy people who don’t have time to read lengthy papers.
That is why it is essential to keep the details brief. Excessive terminology and definitions should be avoided.
Press release examples are a great way to see how this short document can communicate so much detail — and I’ve provided some examples at the end of this post!
Now that you know how long a press release should be, here are the essential components to include:
A Press Release’s Components
This may seem to be a lot of information to fit into 400 words, but the body will contain the writing bulk. The rest are merely tidbits of helpful knowledge.
An example of a press release is as follows:
- Headline: The headline, also known as the title, tells readers what the release is about, so it must be attention-getting but not “clickbait.”
- Summary: The summary summarises the press release’s critical points so that readers who don’t have time to read the entire document can get a general idea of what’s going on.
- Date and Place: The date and location should include the name of the city and the full date of publication.
- Body: The press release’s critical component outlines the announcement and offers all relevant information straightforwardly and concisely. The body will frequently have a quote from a crucial person that reporters may use in their story.
- Boilerplate: This is an about segment that gives a high-level summary of the business and what they do.
- Conclusion: To differentiate the text is publishable from other text on the page, press releases end with “###.”
This general outline will remain the same regardless of the type of press release your client requests.
Different Types of Press Releases
While all press releases generally follow the same outline of required elements, the situation about which they are written will dictate what details should be included.
It is essential to consider the type of press release that the client needs. Here are some examples of press releases that you might be assigned to write:
An Event Press Release
Companies can use press releases to advertise an upcoming event to gain media attention.
A grand opening, a convention, or some other gathering that the organization wishes to host is an example of an event.
These press releases explain what the event is about, who can attend, when and where it will take place, and how much it will cost.
New Product Introduction
Organizations also use a press release for a new product launch to spread the word about new solutions they want to bring to their customers.
When writing a new product launch press release, make sure to provide information about the latest product, as well as its cost, availability, and consumer benefits.
A press release can also be used to announce a product update. They are close to new product launches, in that you can concentrate on what the change is and why it was made.
Branding relaunch
Rebranding is a big move for a business to take, and it can be risky because it can confuse customers.
Companies would want to make this process as straightforward as possible by issuing a statement outlining what is changing, why it is revising, and when it will change.
Changes in the Company
When a company undergoes a merger, such as merging with another company, creating new alliances, or hiring executives, it wants to reassure current and potential stakeholders about the company’s growth and direction.
Examples of Press Releases
As promised, here are some real-life press release examples to help you understand how they can look in various situations:
Example of a Press Release #1
Windows Phone 7
Windows Phone 7 is a smartphone operating system. Is There Hope for People Who Need Better Phone Behavior Now That Windows Phone 7 Is Available in the United States?
According to a new report, lousy cell phone conduct is one of the top pet peeves of 72 percent of U.S. adults surveyed. and only 18 percent confess to participating in it.
REDMOND, WA — November 8, 2010 — Microsoft Corp. has commissioned and released the findings of a recent Harris Interactive® survey showing the surprising ways cell phones have become a part of the fabric of Americans’ activities — a point illustrated by the fact that 55 percent of all phone owners surveyed age 18–35 have used their phone in the bathroom. Microsoft is urging users to handle their cell phone habits to celebrate the launch of Windows Phone 7 in the United States. While consumers adore their phones, the distracted behaviours they display when their heads are buried in their phones are becoming increasingly irritating. While most adults in the United States have encountered lousy cell phone conduct, only a tiny percentage have admitted to engaging in such behaviour themselves. The following are the study’s main results from the surveyed adults:
Bad mobile phone behaviour was named one of the top ten pet peeves by 72 percent of respondents. Still, only 18 percent of mobile phone owners admit engaging in such behaviour.
Nineteen percent of phone owners aged 18 to 24 have dropped their phones into a toilet.
Forty-nine percent of adults aged 18 to 24 have tripped or walked into something when texting or emailing on their cell phones.
Sixty-nine percent of cell phone users aged 18 to 34 have used their phones while on the bed for sleep.
The new Windows Phones have a unique phone experience built to bring users in, out, and back to life. Microsoft set out to create a mobile experience with Windows Phone to put the things people care about the most right to the start screen. As a result, Windows Phone integrates simple daily tasks — such as email tasks or photo-taking and sharing activities — so that people can do more in fewer steps.
Example #2 of a Press Release
Canva
Canva raises $40 million in a round to win the title of Unicorn and valuing the company at $1 billion.
Canva, which is now available in all operating systems in 190 countries, shows no signs of slowing down as they launch in their 100th language.
Every second, more than 13 designs are built on Canva.
It is the online design and publishing website, is the newest Australian startup unicorn, with a new valuation of US$1 billion after raising a US$40 million round.
Melanie Perkins, CEO and Co-Founder of Canva stated that while the company is profitable, with previous round investments remaining unchanged, they wanted to raise additional capital to explore exciting global opportunities and quickly advance its core product offering. Sequoia China has joined forces with long-time Canva investors Blackbird Ventures and Felicis Ventures in this round to help the design business with a new round of funding.
Melanie says, “We’ve just scratched the surface of our aim of inspiring anyone to design something and publish anywhere.”
“Design is no longer a specialized skill; every career today requires the design to help them express their message. Previously, a salesperson may draft a message, but now they must produce an entertaining presentation to attract customers. Nonprofits must develop designs to spread their message and collect funds. Also, business plans, a startup favourite, have given way to graphic pitch decks.
The world is increasingly becoming more visual, but conventional design tools on the market are either too difficult to use or too expensive to be affordable. Canva is built to make it easy for individuals and teams to collaborate. Our expanding presence demonstrates the widespread need that we are addressing.
This increased support will put us one step closer to ensuring that everybody can succeed in an increasingly visual environment.” This announcement comes on the heels of several new product releases this year by the 250-person Sydney-based startup, including the platform’s release in 100 languages, a Canva for Android app. Canva Print’s rollout of the United States, Europe, and Australia, with Mexico, recently added. Canva now provides free access to its premium products to over 17,000 nonprofit organizations worldwide.
“Canva is making big strides in democratizing architecture for everyone,” said Rick Baker, Partner at Blackbird Ventures, who led the investment round. Its product development and acceptance across a wide range of demographics is genuinely remarkable. Melanie Perkins and her team have brought the startup from modest beginnings in Australia to one of the fastest-growing tech companies of all time in just four years. It’s an exciting time to be in the workplace and redefining what it means to connect in the twenty-first century.”
Example #3 of a Press Release
Modcloth
Modcloth is a brand that sells clothing. ModCloth Says Goodbye to Black Friday.
Forget about the steals and deals…
MODCLOTH WISHES TO PROVIDE YOU WITH THE FEELS
/PRNewswire/ — NEW YORK, November 20, 2017 /PRNewswire/ — ModCloth, the online retailer, known for its quirky clothes, gifts, and décor, has decided to end its relationship with Black Friday. This year, the company encourages its customers and workers to celebrate the holiday the way it should be observed: with family, friends, and leftover pie.
ModCloth is closing its website and giving its staff the day off on Black Friday so that its employees and customers can concentrate on things that make them happy, such as contributing to charity.
“It’s easy to get swept up in the hustle and bustle of the holidays, so we wanted to do something different to remind our community that this time of year is about family, friends, and supporting those in need,” Nicole Haase, ModCloth’s vice president, and the general merchandising manager said.
Instead of updates from ModCloth’s social media about all the sales and steals, the company wants to know what makes YOU happy this week.
How to Take Part?
Nominate someone you know who is giving back to their community and needs to be recognized to help the spirit of giving and #BlackFridayBreakup. Participants have the opportunity to win $4500 to support their cause or mission.
Share a photo or video on Twitter or Instagram (not Stories)
Tell us why your neighbourhood hero deserves to win.
In the caption, tag @ModCloth and include the hashtags #BlackFridayBreakup and #ModClothGivingContest.
In exchange, ModCloth will donate over $5 million in goods to their friends at Dress for Success. This agency helps women move back into the workforce and will gift one worthy do-gooder customer $4,500.
Shoppers who are eager to get their ModCloth fix need not be concerned; the retailer will begin its Cyber Monday promotions early.
Starting on Sunday, November 26, the platform will be running a Cyber Weekend sale with 30 percent off offers and free shipping until Tuesday, November 28.
ModCloth is a clothing company based in Los Angeles, California. ModCloth is an online native lifestyle brand dedicated to inspiring personal style and empowering women to be the best versions of themselves. ModCloth’s lifestyle-driven collection features its signature line of feminine, vintage-inspired clothing, which is available in a wide range of sizes (XXS-4X) at incredible value prices.
ModCloth was founded in a college dorm room in 2002 by high school sweethearts Susan Gregg Koger and Eric Koger and has since expanded to nearly 300 employees across offices in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Pittsburgh. Jet.com purchased ModCloth in March 2017. Jet is a forward-thinking and highly creative e-commerce company committed to helping the ModCloth brand expand. For more details, please visit www.modcloth.com.
Press releases are yet another tool in the toolbox for providing freelance writing services.
Plus, you’ll make more money!
Now it’s your turn: Have you ever written press releases for clients? I’d love to hear about your experience in the comments!
Originally published at https://ijazahmad004.blogspot.com.
