We live in an interconnected digital world where businesses scramble to get the exposure they need to stand out. Despite the growth of new communication technologies, press releases are more important than ever. They are a powerful tool that will help you communicate what’s happening at your company with those that matter most to you – that is journalists, bloggers and influencers, and ultimately the audiences they’re reaching.
Here is a 5- step guide that would help you harness the power of media through a well-organised and effective press release.
1. Use an attention-grabbing headline
It is well known that the average attention span of readers is on a steady decline. Therefore, it is paramount to capture your audience within the first few seconds of contact with your press release. Summarise your main point in about 10 to 20 words while always keeping your reader and their interests in mind.
2. Keep it clean
It should go without saying but a golden rule in PR is show, don’t tell. Your press release should provide factual information about the product, person, or event that you are covering. Let journalists make up their mind about your news. Don’t overdo it with the adjectives and keep the fluff to a minimum.
3. Include a media kit
Most of the time, you don’t get much say on what others write about you. However, what you can control is the images you put out there. And you know what they say, a picture is worth a thousand words! This is what makes media kits such an important tool when it comes to sharing exciting news.
4. Think SEO
Search engines use backlinks (ie links that point to your website from other websites) to rank a page. The more backlinks to your site, the better your ranking in searches. Insert links to more information on your website. For example, if you’re announcing the release of an annual report, share links to the online report on your website so that journalists can redirect their readers back to your site.
5. Remember to proofread!
A silly typo in your press release could be damaging to the reputation of your brand. Worse still, you won’t have an opportunity to make amends. So, once you’re done with the press release, go through it to check for errors. Have someone else on your team read through to ensure that no typos are left unspotted.
At SOL PR, we have a commitment to understanding our clients’ businesses and focus on driving their growth. We deliver cost-effective tactical communications plans and look for long-term relationships that foster teamwork and shared knowledge. Such relationships allow for extensive industry networking and can produce results that exceed the expected.
