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Step 1
Decide why you are writing a press release and determine your focus.
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Step 2
Keep it short and to the point. Usually, press releases are no more than one page.
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Step 3
Print the words "FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE" in the top left-hand margin in all caps. Follow this line with relevant contact information: name, title, address, phone number, email address.
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Step 4
Create a headline and center it in bold type just above the first line of the body of the press release. Headlines typically highlight the most important, significant or shocking fact in the release.
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Step 5
Create a dateline - the first line of the body of your press release - that includes the city where the release is generated and the date (i.e. LOS ANGELES, CALIF. - January 1, 2000).
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Step 6
Make certain the first paragraph includes all the vital information: the where, when, why, what and who.
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Step 7
Include some tantalizing peripheral details or facts to spark curiosity in following paragraphs. A good press release not only informs but also teases.
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Step 8
Wrap up the last paragraph with a "for additional information" line, a place to find more details. An annual report or a Web site can be great sources of information.
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Step 9
Center these marks, " # # #" or "-30-", at the bottom of the page to indicate the end of your release.
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Step 10
Print your release on high quality paper using a good laser or inkjet printer. You only get one chance to make a solid first impression.









Comments
gwmaw7 said
on 3/25/2009 Good guidelines for writing press release.I found this affordable press release distribution service which seems pretty newhttp://www.ibwire.com
grapegirls said
on 3/13/2009 PR plays a BIG role in getting the word out on our wine business and events. A well-written press release is a must, great info!
probuilder said
on 1/30/2009 Excellent article and resources. Helped me with my first press release. Thanks, Spence.
PSYCHSCRIBE said
on 11/23/2008 Thank you for your generosity is offering helpful suggestions.
Sandra L. Ceren, Ph.D.
LOOK BEFORE YOU LEAP-A PREMARITAL GUIDE
HooahCopyWriter said
on 10/28/2008 Good little article!
A couple more thoughts--one, regarding SEO:
The first paragraph must be as descriptive as possible--as your readers may get no further. Also, these particular words are indexed by search engines if your release is posted on the Internet.
Two--from a journalistic standpoint:
Don't forget that every press release must answer the basic tenets of journalism: who, what, when, where, why, how. Forget one, and people will be left guessing.