News statement

3. News statement.
So, what exactly is a news release? Well, a news release is a short attention-grabber piece of writing that gives information about events, products, and other exciting details of a company. In its basic form, a press release is a written statement meant to generate interest and publicity and attract potential customers. News releases cover a wide range of subjects including new products, business expansions and mergers, job growth, and a company's charitable donations.

Guidelines and Rules

So let's say that you want to write a news release about a company you own. How would you begin? What should you include? The following is a list of guidelines to consider when writing a news release:

Have a Story Worth Telling

Before a reporter will even consider publishing your story, you need to prove that it's worth telling. Make sure your new release focuses on something significant that will interest the general public. For example, a newsworthy story for your company might be an offer of a free television to the first 50 customers on your one-year anniversary. This information is exciting, and who doesn't want a free TV?
Get to the Point
Media outlets are flooded with news releases and to stand out among the competition, you need to quickly capture an editor's attention. This means getting to the point in the first couple of sentences. So, if you want to get your news release published, you might state in your first sentence that the first 50 customers will receive a TV!

Pay Attention to Your Writing

If your news release is full of grammatical errors, misspelled words, and inaccurate information, an editor may disregard it. Always proofread your writing and check your facts. Your message should be clear, concise, and convincing. So, with your press release about your one-year anniversary, you will want to provide any important details and numbers about the TVs and who might receive one. For example, do the customers have to purchase something to receive the TV, or is it the first 50 customers in the door regardless of a purchase?

Add Quotes

Statements and quotes from experts and business leaders can help you strengthen your release. A news release sounds more reliable and important if a company's CEO is commenting on the information. For your press release, perhaps you as the owner might make a statement about the anniversary celebration so that your community and customers can understand the significance of the event.