Writing an effective press release is crucial for getting your message across to journalists and the public. A well-crafted press release can increase the chances of media coverage and help you achieve your communication goals. Here are some ways that Nimble can help you create a compelling press release:

Grab attention with a catchy headline! 

The first thing journalists and readers alike will see is your headline. This is what will draw them in to read the full story - so make it attention-grabbing and informative. It should convey the main point of the press release concisely.

A strong start. 

Write a strong opening paragraph! In the first paragraph, include the most important information - who, what, when, where, why, and how. Journalists often receive numerous press releases, so it's essential to make your key points immediately apparent.

Short and sweet! 

Stick to the point and keep your press release concise. Aim for one to two pages maximum. Avoid using jargon or unnecessary technical language.

Is it newsworthy? 

Press releases should be timely and relevant. Highlight what makes your story newsworthy and why it matters to the target audience.

Quotes are GOLD!

Include quotes from relevant stakeholders, such as company executives or experts, to add credibility and a human touch to the release.

Where and when? 

If the press release is about an event, include all the necessary information such as date, time, location, and RSVP instructions.

A picture tells a thousand words! 

Consider using multimedia elements. Incorporating relevant images, videos, or infographics will make the press release more engaging and visually appealing.

Any questions? 

Provide the contact details of a media representative who can answer questions or provide additional information.

Get your structure right!

When writing your release, use the inverted pyramid structure: place the most important information at the beginning and follow with supporting details in descending order of importance.

TELL don’t SELL

Avoid using overly promotional language; a press release is not an advertisement. Stick to objective language and present the facts rather than making exaggerated claims.

Spellcheck, proofread, and repeat.

Typos and grammatical errors can undermine your credibility. Always proofread the press release yourself - and then pass it to others to review - before sending it out. (Top tip: make sure your word processing software is set to the correct language!)

Tailor-made releases for your audience.

Tailor your copy for the target audience. Customising the press release to suit the interests and preferences of the journalists or media outlets you are targeting will increase the likelihood of engagement.

Out in the correct format.

Use a clear and consistent format for your press release, including the dateline, headline, body, and boilerplate (a brief description of your company/organisation).

Create your distribution strategy.

Anyone can send any release to every press contact they hold. But this is a waste of time and money, especially if the release isn’t relevant to most publications. Send your press release to relevant media outlets, journalists, and influencers who cover topics related to your news.

Follow Up!

After sending the press release, follow up with journalists to see if they need any further information or interviews, or images. It may just jog their memory!

READ ALL ABOUT IT!

Sharing a link to your release on your own channels once published will encourage followers to read and engage with the article. Tagging the publishers or using relevant hashtags may also encourage new followers! 

Remember, the key to an effective press release is to present information in a clear, concise, and compelling way. By following these tips, you can increase the likelihood of gaining media attention and achieving your communication objectives.

Need a hand? 

At Nimble Media, our public relations and content creation team have more than 30 years of newsroom, copywriting, research, web copy, blogging and PR experience… along with a proven track record of securing media coverage in both local and national press, radio and TV. We work with you to ensure your company’s presence is felt – quickly translating this presence into new business opportunities.

To arrange a chat over a cuppa to discuss your PR needs, contact Nimble Media today.