
A <a href="www.google.com">press release</a> is one of the most powerful tools in your PR toolkit. It allows you to deliver important information directly to the media, potential partners, and the public. Whether you're announcing a product launch, a new partnership, or a company milestone, an effective press release can help generate buzz and attract attention.
But writing a press release that grabs the right kind of attention isn't as easy as just putting words on paper. It takes a strategic approach to ensure your message stands out in the crowded media landscape. Here’s a guide to writing a press release that gets noticed.
Your headline is the first thing journalists will see, so it needs to grab their attention instantly. Keep it concise, clear, and specific. A headline that is too vague or generic won’t do you any favors. Aim for something that conveys the core of your announcement in a way that makes the reader want to know more.
Example:
"XYZ Corp Launches Revolutionary App to Improve Mental Health in Teens"
The first paragraph of your press release should answer the essential questions of who, what, when, where, why, and how. This is the most important section of the press release, so make sure it includes all the critical information in a nutshell. Journalists often decide whether to cover a story based on this first paragraph, so it needs to be clear and to the point.
Example:
XYZ Corp today announced the launch of its new mental health app designed specifically for teenagers, aimed at providing accessible and personalized mental health support. The app, which will be available for download starting March 15, 2025, promises to help users build coping mechanisms through interactive activities and expert advice.
Including a quote from a key person involved in the announcement adds a personal touch and can help humanize your message. Ideally, this quote should come from a company leader, a subject-matter expert, or someone directly impacted by the news. The quote should reinforce the main message and provide deeper insight into why the announcement matters.
Example:
“We’ve seen a growing need for tools that can support teen mental health in a meaningful and accessible way,” said Jane Doe, CEO of XYZ Corp. “With this app, we’re not only providing a platform for mental health management, but also offering a community that promotes self-care and emotional well-being.”
After your lead paragraph, use the body of the press release to elaborate on the key points. Dive deeper into the specifics of your announcement, including any relevant statistics, background information, and context that will help readers understand the significance of the news. Break the information into easy-to-read paragraphs or bullet points, and avoid overloading the reader with too much information at once.
Example:
The app includes features such as mood tracking, guided meditations, journaling prompts, and access to licensed therapists via chat. In a recent study, 85% of teens reported feeling less stressed after using similar digital mental health tools.
A boilerplate is a brief summary of your company or organization, typically appearing at the end of the press release. It should provide essential background information about your company, including what you do, your mission, and any relevant history. This section doesn’t need to be long—usually around 3–4 sentences will suffice.
Example:
XYZ Corp is a leading provider of innovative mental health solutions. Founded in 2010, the company has helped thousands of individuals improve their mental health through technology-driven tools. With a commitment to accessibility and compassion, XYZ Corp aims to make mental health support available to everyone, anywhere.
Finally, include the contact details of the person or team who can provide more information. This section should be easy to find, and the contact person should be available to respond promptly to inquiries from journalists.
Example:
For media inquiries, please contact:
John Smith
PR Manager, XYZ Corp
Phone: (123) 456-7890
Email: john.smith@xyzcorp.com
Before sending out your press release, make sure to proofread it for spelling, grammar, and clarity. A poorly written press release can undermine your credibility and make it less likely to get picked up by the media. If possible, have a colleague review it as well to ensure that your message is clear and concise.
Writing an effective press release takes time and attention to detail, but following these simple steps will help ensure your news reaches the right audience in a professional and compelling way. By crafting a headline that grabs attention, structuring your release for clarity, and providing supporting details, you’ll be well on your way to generating media coverage that moves the needle for your business.