How to Make a Promo Press Kit

Musicians send press kits to newspapers to have information published.

Musicians and bands put together press kits to get their music distributed and heard. Most press kits end up in the garbage before they get a second glance. Music executives don't even see most press kits that come into their office. To prevent this, make sure yours has every piece of necessary information. A well-planned press kit will raise the chances of your material being looked at by industry professionals, regardless of the industry. Everyone from newspaper editors to publishers and music execs look at press kits.

Instructions

1. Start with a letter of introduction. This is your first -- and possibly only -- chance to grab the reader's attention. Let him know why he should read further about your business. Include a table of contents and a brief explanation of the contents of your press kit.

2. Include overall information about your company. This should be more in-depth than the information on your business' website. You can include your mission statement, business goals and history. This will be especially important if advertisers want to see your press kit; they'll be able to include eye-catching, important information when promoting your business. Include profiles and bios of the chief officers or heads of the company.

3. Add articles and other promotional materials that refer to your company. For example, you can include a newspaper article about your business in your press kit. Don't include every piece of literature ever published on your business, though. Instead, choose the most recent, most relevant and best-written pieces to include. You can also include press releases.

4. Incorporate brochures or other marketing materials that you use to promote your business.

5. Create an online press kit that you can e-mail to professionals. This is a great choice if you have video clips or other types of performances that you want to send along with your press kit.

Tips & Warnings

• Even small businesses can benefit from putting together and sending out a press kit. Don't think your business isn't important enough to have this type of marketing. New start-ups, franchises and commercial companies all have press kits on hand.

• Press kits are also referred to as "media kits."

• Address everyone who may be looking at your press kit. Include vital information that will serve not just media but also possible investors and potential customers.

References

• Get Signed: Press Kits
• Entrepreneur: Ingredients of a Press Kit