How to Write Press Releases for New Websites
The workhorse of nearly all public relations campaigns, the press release has been utilized for decades. Its main function is to spread the word about a product or organization -- in this case, your website. A press release may be used in countless ways, from enticing a reporter to write about your website, to receiving an online ad that can be used on Facebook or other social networks. A press release is typically one to two pages in length and written like a news story, with an attention-grabbing headline.
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Instructions
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Instructions
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Write the website name and URL above the headline, on the top left hand corner of the page. In this section, the words "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE," in all capital letters, should also appear. Include a contact person with phone number, too, in case the recipient wants to follow up for more information.
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Next, write the headline. The headline should be an attention-grabbing and informative statement about the launch of your website.
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The dateline is the location of where the story is originating. This will be placed at the start of the first sentence, separated from the wording by a dash.
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It is best to stick to the expected format for the body of the press release. In journalism, students generally learn to address the "5 Ws" with every story: Who, What, Where, When and Why. You can write a release that includes the "5 Ws" in the content. You can also choose to start each paragraph with one the "5 Ws" followed by a colon and then answer the questions as they relate to your website launch. The end result looks like a bulletin, with the "5 Ws" clearly laid out in front of the reader.
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End the press release with a description about your company or service. This is usually a brief report of the founding of the website and possibly naming the staff involved, too, if that helps give the site more legitimacy.
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Tips & Warnings
You may want to include a quote from the principals involved in the new website, such as the manager of the business. Many press releases conclude with "END" in capital letters. If you want to get fancy, you can end the release with "###" or "-30-."
Avoid wordiness. Get to the point and never lose focus. The release is meant to read like a short newspaper story.
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Resources
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