Reflective Post 9: Tips for writing a good press release

Press release is not an advertisement. They may share the same purpose, to create awareness and to gain publicity. Yet, it is important to note that press release is publish by the 3rd party - mostly newspaper. Therefore, press release is more credible than a paid-advertisement and it should be written like a news, otherwise it will simply be discarded. Here are some tips for writing an effective press release:

1. Newsworthiness
Before you write your press release, ask yourself "What's the news value in your story?". Think from the perspective of a journalist, your story will only get coverage if journalist thinks it is newsworthy and their readers have to know about it. What makes a story newsworthy?

• timely
• proximate 
• prominent
• human interest
• significant 

2. Follow a standard press release format

It is important to follow standard press release formating and include 5W1H questions in your press release. Press release should written in inverted pyramid approach which the most important information comes first followed by less important information. 

3. Use double spacing

Double spacing and wide margin allow journalist to make note in your press release.

4. Good grammar 

Journalists are busy. Make sure your press release is well written or else it will simply be discarded.

For further reading:

A complete guide to writing an effective press release
http://www.marketingdonut.co.uk/marketing/pr/writing-a-press-release/a-complete-guide-to-writing-an-effective-press-release

Written by,

Ng Jas Min

0312182