Ok, you’re finally going to write a release. You have a reporter in mind to send it to and you’re raring to go.
I’ve found that most people don’t write very well, and, like most things in life, we need a system to complete the task. With that in mind, I developed a system to help others write a quick news release, about any subject. I wanted to get a little feedback from you and share what seems to work best so far.
1. Google it.
Copy and paste every sentence that makes sense to you about the subject at hand and/or that you agree with into one document. Spend only 10 minutes on this step.
2. Find at least one quotation from another expert in the field who agrees with you.
Copy and paste that into your document.
3. Decide WHO CARES about the subject at hand.
Create a clever hook and title that speaks to them (it’s not about you, it’s about how it affects others) and add that to the top of your document.
4. Write the sub-title.
The subtitle must explain the biggest benefit for your audience and put in italics below your title.
5. Move the three KEY points that best explain your subject to the top.
6. Toss at least half of what’s left.
Edit or rework the rest.
7. Make it yours.
Add your own words, thoughts, sentences, so the edited version creates a complete message on your subject.
8. Insert your own quotation.
9. Remember the 5 W’s.
Be sure you have addressed about your subject; the who, what, when, where, why, how, and who cares.
10. Reread your title.
If it does not answer a burning question, rework it until it does.
It should take you less than 30 minutes to complete this system and write a news release. If you need a reason to send a news release go to www.MeetTheNewMedia.com/88reasons to find one.
10.5 – Proofread.
Get a fresh pair of eyes to read your release. Before sending it out to the media, send it to someone you trust to proofread it for you. If you can’t do that, then set the release aside for awhile and come back later to read it and proof it again.
If you send 12 releases a year to 10 news outlets, expect to get picked up at least six times. That should be worth the 12 hour investment.
If you want to be a part of something that really works, join us at the next Meet the Media. You’ll meet top area reporters face-to-face, and learn the best tactics to get your message in the news or on the web. Go to www. MeetTheNewMedia.com to register!
If I can be of any help, feel free to contact me: Rebecca@MeetTheNewMedia.com
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