Sales And Marketing Skills

Press Releases (Structure, Tips, Examples, And Ready-To-Use Templates)





What is a Press Release?

A press release is a formal announcement shared with the media and the public to communicate newsworthy information about your organization, product, or event. It’s designed to grab journalists' attention and encourage them to cover your story.


Why Are Press Releases Important?

  1. Increase Brand Awareness: Share your news with a wider audience.
  2. Build Credibility: Establish your organization as a trusted source of information.
  3. Gain Media Coverage: Provide journalists with newsworthy content.
  4. Boost SEO: Press releases published online can drive traffic and improve search engine rankings.

When to Use a Press Release?

Press releases are ideal for announcing:
- New Product/Service Launches
- Company Milestones (anniversaries, awards, achievements)
- Events: Webinars, conferences, fundraisers.
- Partnerships or Acquisitions
- Leadership Changes: New hires, promotions.
- Crisis Communication (e.g., responding to PR issues).
- Charitable Initiatives


Press Release Structure

A press release follows a standard format to ensure clarity and professionalism.

1. Headline (Title)

  • A concise, attention-grabbing title summarizing the news.
  • Example: "Tech Innovators Launch AI Tool to Boost Productivity by 40%"

2. Subheadline (Optional)

  • Provides more detail about the announcement, supporting the headline.
  • Example: "The new AI software, designed for small businesses, is set to revolutionize workflows starting this quarter."

3. Dateline

  • Includes the location (city, state) and date of release.
  • Example: SAN FRANCISCO, CA — January 21, 2025

4. Lead Paragraph

  • Answers the 5 Ws: Who, What, Where, When, and Why.
  • Hooks the reader by immediately stating why the news is important.
  • Example:
    "Tech Innovators Inc. announced today the launch of its groundbreaking AI tool, StreamlinePro, designed to help small businesses automate repetitive tasks and boost productivity by 40%. The tool will be available starting February 1, 2025."

5. Body Paragraph(s)

  • Expand on the details:
  • Key features, benefits, or milestones.
  • Quotes from executives, customers, or stakeholders.
  • Relevant stats or background information.

6. Boilerplate

  • A brief paragraph about your company or organization.
  • Example:
    "Tech Innovators Inc. is a leading provider of productivity software, serving over 5,000 businesses worldwide. Founded in 2015, the company is committed to developing innovative solutions to help businesses thrive."

7. Call to Action (CTA)

  • Encourage the reader to take the next step (e.g., visit your website, attend an event, contact for more information).
  • Example: "For more information about StreamlinePro, visit www.techinnovators.com or contact [email protected]."

8. Contact Information

  • Include details for journalists to reach you.
  • Example:
  • Name: Jane Doe
  • Title: PR Manager
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Phone: (555) 123-4567

Press Release Writing Tips

  1. Keep it Concise: Stick to 400–600 words (1–1.5 pages).
  2. Use Professional Tone: Avoid salesy language; focus on providing information.
  3. Include a Quote: Add a statement from a company executive or stakeholder for credibility.
  4. Example: "This AI tool will redefine productivity for small businesses," said John Smith, CEO of Tech Innovators.
  5. Make it Newsworthy: Ensure the announcement is timely, relevant, and interesting.
  6. Write for Journalists: Provide the key details upfront to make it easy for media outlets to cover your story.
  7. Include Supporting Media: Attach high-quality images, videos, or infographics.

Sample Press Release Templates

Template 1: Product Launch Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Headline: [Company Name] Launches [Product Name] to Transform [Industry/Problem Solved]

Subheadline: Innovative [Product/Service] Offers [Key Benefit/Feature] Starting [Launch Date].

Dateline: [City, State] — [Date]

Lead Paragraph:
[Company Name] announced today the launch of [Product Name], a [short description of product/service] designed to [specific benefit/problem solved]. Available starting [date], [Product Name] aims to [describe impact or goal].

Body Paragraph(s):
The new [product/service] features [key feature 1], [key feature 2], and [key feature 3]. [Explain how it stands out or benefits the target audience].

"This is a game-changer for [target audience]," said [Name, Title], [Company Name]. "With [Product Name], our customers can [specific outcome or advantage]."

[Provide additional details or supporting stats.]

Boilerplate:
[Brief overview of the company, including history, mission, and any relevant achievements.]

Call to Action:
For more information about [Product Name], visit [Website URL] or contact [Contact Name] at [email/phone].

Contact Information:
- Name: [Full Name]
- Title: [Title]
- Email: [Email Address]
- Phone: [Phone Number]


Template 2: Event Announcement Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Headline: [Company Name] Announces [Event Name], [Event Type] Happening on [Date]

Subheadline: [Event Name] Will Bring Together [Target Audience] to Discuss [Key Topic].

Dateline: [City, State] — [Date]

Lead Paragraph:
[Company Name] is thrilled to announce [Event Name], a [event type: webinar, conference, workshop, etc.] that will take place on [date] at [location or virtual link]. The event will focus on [key topic or theme] and bring together [target audience: industry leaders, professionals, etc.] to [main event goal].

Body Paragraph(s):
Attendees will have the opportunity to [list benefits: learn, network, collaborate]. The event will feature:
- Keynote by [Name, Title, Company] on [topic].
- Panel discussions on [specific topics].
- Workshops on [specific skills].

"We’re excited to host [Event Name] and provide a platform for [target audience] to connect and grow," said [Name, Title, Company]. "This event is designed to [specific benefit or goal]."

Boilerplate:
[Brief description of the company, highlighting its expertise and relevance to the event topic.]

Call to Action:
To register for [Event Name], visit [Event Website URL] or contact [Contact Name] at [email/phone].

Contact Information:
- Name: [Full Name]
- Title: [Title]
- Email: [Email Address]
- Phone: [Phone Number]


Sample Press Release Examples

Example 1: Product Launch

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Headline: XYZ Corp Unveils SmartTherm, the Thermostat of the Future

Subheadline: The SmartTherm Delivers Energy Savings and AI-Powered Temperature Control for Modern Homes.

Dateline: NEW YORK, NY — January 21, 2025

XYZ Corp today announced the launch of SmartTherm, a groundbreaking smart thermostat designed to reduce energy bills by 30% while offering seamless AI-powered control. Available now at major retailers and online, SmartTherm combines advanced technology with sleek design to meet the needs of eco-conscious homeowners.

"We believe SmartTherm will revolutionize home temperature management," said Jane Doe, CEO of XYZ Corp. "It’s not just a thermostat; it’s an intelligent partner for a sustainable lifestyle."

Boilerplate:
Founded in 2010, XYZ Corp is a leader in home automation technology, delivering innovative solutions that make modern living smarter and more sustainable.

Call to Action:
For more details about SmartTherm, visit www.xyzcorp.com or contact [email protected].


By following these press release basics and examples, you’ll effectively communicate your news and increase your chances of media coverage.


If you liked this, consider supporting us by checking out Tiny Skills - 250+ Top Work & Personal Skills Made Easy