Press Releases

The purpose of a press release is to generate attention and make news regarding a company launch, a new product, a music release, or any other significant milestone. Press releases are written and distributed by organizations and individuals as a way to inform the media of interesting news and information.

A press release will usually include a compelling headline that captures the attention of the media as well as of readers of newspapers, magazines, and websites where the press release might be published. A subhead is often used to provide more insight into the content of the press release. Additionally, the location and date the press release was issued are usually included along with quotes from any involved parties and contact information to close.

A press release can be published a number of ways. The most popular way is simply to include the press release on a website and share it via social media platforms. Another effective way is to use the services of a press release distribution service that distributes the published release to a number of media outlets locally, nationally, or internationally. Finally, one can distribute a press release directly to one or more media contacts for the purpose of encouraging outlets to write an article about the information contained within the release.

There are many press release distribution services available for companies and individuals. These include PR Newswire, PRWeb, Business Wire, Newswire, PR.com, eReleases, and GlobeNewswire. Each distribution service offers its own method for distribution among traditional, online, or other media outlets and provides a variety of pricing options.

As with other forms of written content targeted for public consumption, a press release may be as short or long as its originator believes is necessary. Many media experts suggest that press releases range anywhere from 300 to 500 words in order to maximize distribution and readership.

The characteristics of a good press release include elements designed to maximize distribution, pickup and readership. Those characteristics include making sure the press release:

• Is newsworthy
• Features a compelling headline
• Has a gripping lead sentence
• Is free from typos, grammatical errors and misspellings
• Features contact information.