What do you do with a press release? This is a question that often arises for businesses and organizations looking to share important news with their audience. A press release is a written statement that provides information about a newsworthy event, product launch, or announcement. However, simply crafting a press release is not enough; it needs to be distributed effectively to reach the intended audience. In this article, we will explore various strategies and best practices for maximizing the impact of your press release.
The first step in handling a press release is to ensure that it is well-written and informative. A compelling press release should include the who, what, when, where, why, and how of the news item. It should be concise, clear, and free of jargon. Before distributing the release, it is crucial to proofread and edit it to avoid any errors or inconsistencies.
Once the press release is ready, the next step is to determine the appropriate channels for distribution. While traditional media outlets such as newspapers, magazines, and television stations remain valuable, there are now numerous online platforms and social media networks where press releases can be shared. Here are some effective distribution strategies:
1. Targeted Media Outlets: Identify relevant media outlets that cater to your industry or audience. Send the press release directly to editors and journalists who cover the relevant beat.
2. Wire Services: Consider using wire services such as PR Newswire, Business Wire, or PRWeb to distribute your press release to a wide range of media outlets and online platforms.
3. Social Media: Share your press release on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. Use relevant hashtags to increase visibility.
4. Email Newsletters: If you have a list of subscribers or contacts, consider sending the press release directly to their inboxes. This can be particularly effective for industry-specific newsletters.
5. Company Website and Blog: Post the press release on your company’s website and blog. This not only helps in search engine optimization (SEO) but also provides a permanent record of the news.
6. Press Release Distribution Lists: Subscribe to press release distribution lists and submit your release to these channels to reach a broader audience.
In addition to distributing the press release, it is essential to track its performance. This can be done by monitoring the number of views, downloads, and media mentions. Use tools such as Google Analytics, social media insights, and media monitoring services to gauge the effectiveness of your distribution strategy.
Remember that a press release is not just a one-time event. Follow up with the media outlets and contacts to ensure they received the release and are interested in covering the story. Offer additional information, interviews, or press kits if necessary.
In conclusion, what do you do with a press release? Craft a well-written, informative statement, distribute it through targeted channels, and track its performance. By following these steps, you can increase the chances of your press release being noticed and shared, ultimately driving more visibility and engagement for your business or organization.
