… that doesn’t end up in the round file (trash).
A media or press release is one of the main ways you can share your news with the media. Reporters journalist, and editors are hungry for news, and often depend on releases to tip them off to new products, company trends, and other newsworthy developments. Much of what you read in newspapers, magazines, or trade publications, hear on the radio or see on television started with a media release. The average journalist receives several hundred media releases each week, many of which end up in the round file. Your challenge is to tell your story in a way that makes the journalist want to know more and ultimately tell your story.
Here are TEN Tips to write a media/press release that will get noticed:
1. Paper. Use standard, white, 8½ “x11” paper or the “standard” acceptable size in your part of the world.
2. Margins. Use wide margins on all four sides. Suggested top and bottom margins between 1 ½ -2 inches, side margins between 1-1 ½ inches. This makes it easier for journalists to make notes in the margins.
3. Folding. Fold the release so that the headline and date will be the first thing the editor or reporter sees upon opening the envelope.
4. Header. The name of your organization, contact info (address, address, phone numbers and email) should appear at the top of your release.
5. Contact Person. Always include at the top corner of every page, a two or three word description of the story. Title, the name, and phone number of key contact people – no more than two. Phone numbers are critical. Make sure those phone numbers listed are accessible 24/7. It is advisable to use a direct line, not a line that has to go through a switchboard or menu.
6. Release Date. The release date – Usually “For Immediate Release” or for release on (fill in date) – the majority of releases are “For Immediate Release.” This indicates the media may use the information on its own schedules.
7. Deadlines. It is important to know the media’s deadlines. Magazines, even weekly ones, are often planned months in advance. For calendar items, know when the media outlet’s deadline is. Daily newspapers have a deadline. Don’t fax a release out the day before an event expecting it to receive coverage. Allow sufficient time for the media to decide if and when they want to cover your story. If you think your event is so far in the distance the media might forget about it, then simply send another release as the time draws nearer.
8. Headlines. The headline is used to catch attention, make the words pay off. A good headline will compel the media to read the rest of the story.
Excerpted from The Media eGuide. Visit: http://heidirichards.com/free-media-e-guide-special-report/ to get your FREE copy!
Read Part Two “How to Write a Successful Press Release” Ten MORE Tips