An online press release is simply a traditional press release that is distributed through online channels. Online press releases are a fantastic way to share company news with a wide audience, gain inbound links back to your company website, and generate overall awareness about recent events involving your business.
How to Pick a Press Release Topic
The first question you should ask yourself when you set out to write a press release is simply this: is my story newsworthy?
Many online press release distribution services won't accept your press release if they feel it's not newsworthy - not to mention readers won't find it interesting, either. Here are some topics Entrepreneur.com suggests for newsworthy press release topics:
Starting a new business- Introducing a new product
- Celebrating an anniversary
- Announcing a restructuring of the company
- Opening up branch or satellite offices
- Receiving an award
- Participating in a philanthropic event
- Introducing a unique strategy/approach
- Announcing a partnership
- Changing the company or product name
- Announcing a public appearance on television, radio or in person
- Launching a website
- Announcing free information available
- Announcing that you've reached a major milestone
- Obtaining a new, significant customer
- Expanding or renovating the business
- Establishing a unique vendor agreement
- Restructuring your business or its business model
- Setting up a customer advisory group
- Announcing the results of research or surveys you have conducted
- Announcing that an individual in your business has been named to serve in a leadership position in a community, professional or charitable organization
- Sponsoring a workshop or seminar
- Making public statements on future business trends or conditions
- Forming a new strategic partnership or alliance
How to Prepare for your Press Release
Once you've chosen your press release topic, grab a pen and paper and write down accurate answers to the following questions:
- Who is your story about?
- What is it that happened?
- When did it happen?
- Where did it happen?
- Why did it happen? (For whom did it happen?)
- Do I have any quotes from those involved?
- Who is the target audience? (At whom is the story aimed?)
- Why am I writing this story? (Who benefits from me writing this story?)
By answering these questions, you'll be well on your way to drafting an informative, articulate press release you can use to help drive traffic to your site.
Now that you know how to begin writing your press release, learn more about the components of a press release.
