Press Release Templates & Guides

A Hook

The main reason for writing a press release is to get people interested in your business. For example, suppose you're an auto mechanic who has just completed some unusual and challenging car repairs. In that case, it's worth noting that fact and sharing it with local news outlets. Another good way to make the media take notice of your press release is by offering reporters something they can't find on their own or pass up.

An Enticing Headline

As we mentioned earlier, attention spans online aren't exactly long, so headlines need to be eye-catching. If you don't have an attention-grabbing headline, there's a good chance your press release will be ignored by the media and go unread. It should also be informative -- it shouldn't just describe what is included in the body of the text but give readers an idea about why they should read on

• Like saying, "We've discovered how to fix cars" versus, "Fixing cars has never been easier."

An introduction that outlines who you are and what makes your business unique or valuable

Including this information isn't essential for local news outlets. However, if you're sending a press release to a national publication, it's necessary to include information about your business and how readers will benefit from reading the article.

An explanation of what's included in this piece

This is another element that isn't necessary for local news outlets but should be added when pitching your story to more significant publications. In addition, make sure you get rid of any jargon or abbreviations that may confuse reporters -- especially if they aren't familiar with your industry. You can also use bullet points here instead of writing out everything word-for-word, so it saves space and makes things more concise while still being comprehensive enough for other journalists.

The body which includes all the vital facts

The body of your press release should provide the necessary information about what you're pitching. This includes answering questions like who, what, when, where, why, and how. It's always a good idea to have numbers or statistics throughout this part, so it appeals more to readers

• For example: "Over 50% of car owners don't know how to change their oil."

Bullet points are another way that can make things easier to read; however, remember not to go overboard with them. Some publications prefer all text while others will accept both bullet points and standard sentences. If in doubt, ask the publication before sending over your story.

A quote from someone involved in the business is included at the end.

There are several benefits to including quotes in your press release. For one, it makes you look more credible as a business and underlines the value that your company provides for clients. In addition, reporters will appreciate being able to pull great quotes from their interview with you instead of having to think of something themselves or paraphrase what you said, which may not be accurate enough.

A call-to-action at the end

This is an optional element, but if there's another thing about your press release that's unique, why not mention it? You can remind people where they heard about this news story first by including either a hyperlink back to your website or even adding contact information like phone numbers and email addresses so they can get in touch with you.

Dateline

The dateline includes the location of where your press release was written. This isn't necessary for local news outlets since they get their stories from national wire services. Still, suppose you're pitching it to a more prominent publication. In that case, this is an essential element that should be included to give them context about when and where something happened or will happen.

Event

People like reading about events since it's usually fun and exciting. This is an excellent option if you're looking to cover an upcoming party or industry conference that your company will be attending. The best thing about these releases is that they don't necessarily need quotes from any executives, so there isn't much work involved in putting them together.

Book Release

If you have a new book coming out, this is a great way to get attention from people who follow your company's work. Include details about the title and author since it makes things more interesting for readers and provides an explanation of why they would want to read it.

Product Release

This is another popular option for companies, especially if it's a new product line or service that your company offers. Keep the description short, and to the point, so reporters can easily find out what they need to know without reading through too much material.

New Business

If you're trying to launch a new business, create a press release that will help people interested learn more about your company and what makes it stand out from the competition.

New Hire

These are great for companies that want to announce who will be taking on a new role or title at their organization. It's essential to explain why the person is joining your company and what they'll be doing in this position.

Rebranding

This is an excellent option if your company wants to revamp their image or change what they're known for. Again, make sure you explain why this movie was made and how it will benefit potential customers.

Partnership

Suppose you've made a business agreement or entered into an official partnership with another company. In that case, this is an excellent opportunity to get the word out and let people know what it means for both businesses.

Award Press Releases

If your company has received an award or noteworthy mention, this is another excellent way to get the word out about what you've accomplished.