A press release is a common tool in reputation management, designed to announce something significant and newsworthy to the media. This article explores what a press release is, the different ways to send one, and provides a step-by-step guide on how to effectively distribute your press release to maximize visibility and impact.
What is a Press Release?
A press release is an official statement issued to media outlets offering information on a particular matter from entities like companies, governments, celebrities, and others.
It is a concise, compelling document that outlines the who, what, when, where, and why of your story, aiming to garner the interest of journalists and publications to cover your event, announcement, or product launch.
Press releases are formatted to make it easy for media outlets to quickly understand and publish the story if they choose to.
Ways to Send a Press Release
There are several methods to send out a press release, each serving different needs and budgets:
- Email: Directly emailing your press release to journalists and editors is one of the most common and personal methods.
- Wire Services: Services like PR Newswire or Business Wire distribute your press release to a vast network of outlets for a fee.
- Online PR Services: Websites like PRWeb offer the ability to publish your press release online, which can then be indexed by search engines and found by journalists.
How to Send Out a Press Release for Free
For organizations on a budget, there are free methods to distribute press releases:
- Online Platforms: Websites like PRLog and 24-7 Press Release offer free distribution services, though they’re generally less comprehensive than paid services.
- Social Media: Leveraging social media platforms to share the press release can also be an effective method of getting the word out.
How to Send Out a Press Release via Email
- Create a Media List: Gather emails of relevant journalists and media outlets who might be interested in your news.
- Craft Your Email: Write a personalized email to each journalist, attaching the press release, or including it in the body of the email. The subject line should be catchy and the email should introduce the press release compellingly.
- Follow Up: Send a follow-up email if you don’t receive a response within a week. A polite reminder can help your press release get noticed.
