As an entrepreneur, you know you need to send out a press release to announce your new business, but where do you start?
Well, the good news is that it’s not difficult to write a press release. Here are a few tips to help you write your first press release from Step 5 of our “7 Steps to Successful Public Relations,” https://startupnation.com/steps/77/3856/1/1/public-relations-action-plan.htm.
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To start, review press releases and news from your competitors and other successful companies. This way, you’ll get a good idea of how an effective press release looks and sounds.
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Visit PR Newswire, www.prnewswire.com, and follow their press-release structure. Since they follow the official, Associated Press Style Guide, you know you will have the appropriate format for your release. (You may want to order this style guide to help you with your grammar and punctuation.)
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Write a headline that conveys the main message without adding clichés, gimmicks or extra copy. Use action verbs written in the present tense.
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Place all of the important information in the first paragraph (including your website address). Reporters often stop reading after the headline and first paragraph due to tight deadlines so ensure that the key points are noted in the first portion of your release.
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Include a brief section at the end of your press release (called the boiler plate). This should be one paragraph that provides all of the information about your business along with your website address. Also be sure to include your contact information so media members can reach you via phone or e-mail.
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As you’re writing, think about the key elements that your audience will find interesting. Focus on the benefits, insert quotes that have meaning and avoid self-serving jargon.
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When you’re finished, have someone check your press release for errors, tone and newsworthiness. This way, your press release will convey correct information that builds credibility and generates interest.
This is a simple way to write your first release and focus on content. Once your release is written, optimize it for the search engines by using one of the many SEO services out there or hiring a freelance, SEO copywriter. This way, you’ll get more attention online and build buzz.
For more on press-release writing, check out the articles on PR at StartupNation, and check out all of the free details in our “7 Steps to Successful Public Relations” at https://startupnation.com/steps/77/3856/1/1/public-relations-action-plan.htm.
Do you need help reaching your business goals with public relations, SEO copywriting and marketing but just don’t have the time or resources? Please contact me here or at www.rembrandtwrites.com. I’m here to help.
