Writing a press release can be a difficult task. However, with the right information, template, and content, your press release can be a hit! You just need to follow the essentials.
There are only three parts of a press release to worry about. These include the headline, subheadline and body content. First, you must learn to properly write out a headline.
The headline should follow these guidelines:
• Centered at the top of the page (separate from the rest of the press release)
• In all caps and bold
• One line
• Informative, but simple
Next up is the sub-headline. Not all press releases need a sub-headline. If you feel as though your headline was enough, then leave it alone. There is no need to further explain. However, for the subheadline you should:
• Set it up below the headline
• Center and put in italics and "mixed case"
And finally you have the body. The body of the press release is going to take the longest and be the most frustrating. Hang in there! Follow this format and you will be done before you know it.
The first paragraph is the most crucial. This is the paragraph most people will scan and decide if they want to read the rest of the release or not. So, be convincing and sell it! Here are some pointers for the first paragraph of the body:
• The entire body of the press release is aligned to the left and is single spaced
• Start with a location followed by a date (EX: Saddle Brook, NJ, September 20, 2012-Hudson Horizons. . .)
• Two, three sentences max!
• Answer the 5 W's (who, what, when, where and why)
For the rest of the body, you are simply restating what was said in the first paragraph, but in more detail. Remember, press releases are professional writings so stick to facts (not opinions) and professional lingo. You also want to include in the body are quotes that prove your point or support the cause. Be sure that your press release is approximately ¾ of a page long.
There is only one other part of the body to mention in specifics; this is the ending. The last paragraph should be a brief company bio, also known as the boilerplate. After the bio, enter twice, center and add three pound signs (###). This indicates to the reader that the press release is finished. You also want to add in contact information (your name, company name, address, email address, phone number, fax number, website, etc.) at the end of the press release so the readers can get in contact with you if they have any questions or concerns.
It seems as though there are a lot of components that make up a press release, but if you stick to these tips you will write like a pro!