A press release is a short, compelling news story written by a public relations professional and sent to targeted members of the media. A press release should read like a news story, written in third-person, citing quotes and sources and containing standard press release information.

What are the rules for media release?

The 10 golden rules of writing press releases

• Keep it brief.
• Use attention-grabbing headlines.
• Include a release date.
• Convey the key facts in your first paragraph.
• Expand the story – but keep it lean.
• Include some good quotes.
• Add a profile or backgrounder and contacts.
• Include a photograph.

How do you write a press release legally?

Press releases follow a unique structure:

1. Headline – Optimize the headline with a keyword phrase, if possible.
2. Dateline and the city/state – Include the date and the area the news is coming from.
3. Body – Discuss your announcement and include quotes to support the story.

What are the 7 steps to a press release?

How To Write a Press Release: 7 Steps

1. Find Ways To Be Newsworthy. As you’ll be pitching to journalists, create a news release with that in mind.
2. Write Your Press Release Headline.
3. Craft Your Lede.
4. Write Your Body Paragraphs.
5. Include Supporting Quotes.
6. Write Your Boilerplate Text.
7. Add Media Contact Details.

What makes a good media release?

A good press release should take a factual tone and be short and concise, giving the journalist the essence of the story. They will get in touch if they want more information. If you get the news content right and write to the publication’s style, you give yourself a good chance of getting your story across.

How do I publish a press release for free?

5 Truly Free Press Release Distribution Services

1. OnlinePRNews.com: Best for Free Short-term Release Publishing.
2. NewswireToday.com: Best for Wide RSS Feed Reach for Non-profits.
3. PRLog: Best for Free Press Room for Company Press Releases.
4. 1888PressRelease.com: Best for Distribution to Search Engines.

How many words should a press release be?

Be concise The ideal length of a press release is about an A4 side or about 300 to 400 words (the length of a short news item). That’s just three or four short paragraphs and a couple of of quotes.

How do you write a killer press release?

How to write a killer press release

1. Do the work for them. Write your press release as though it’s going straight into the paper.
2. The all-important headline.
3. Date.
4. Consider the publication you’re writing for.
5. Magical first paragraph.
6. Stats are strong.
7. Quote.
8. Keep it short.

What are the guidelines for a press release?

All press releases must be between 300 and 800 words in length. The news summary included with the release must also be no longer than two sentences. Double-space all content and cover the five W’s of the newsworthy event in the first paragraph: who, what, why, where, and when.

What should be included in an AP press release?

A PR Daily article outlines six necessary AP style guide steps you ought to take when composing your release to assure that it’s newsworthy. They include: stating your objective clearly, using the five Ws, minding your spacing, using proper grammar and style, and showing names and titles correctly and appropriately.

What are the requirements for a valid release?

As such, the delivery is an essential requirement in forming a valid release. In order for it to take effect, a release must be supported by adequate consideration. Provided something of value is received, the consideration will be deemed adequate. Additionally, a release is ratified by acceptance of consideration.

How long does it take to become a press release writer?

Employers want applicants with one to five years of experience in the field of public relations and writing. You can gain experience while still in school by completing internships with professional public relations departments. Some entry-level assistant positions at public relations offices may also help you obtain the necessary experience.