Q. What information do I need to provide in a Press Release?

A. A Press Release is a great way to let the public know about your business. You can send a press release to your local media, newspapers across then nation,  or to online agencies. With the hundreds of press releases received every day, you need to make sure yours will catch the editor's eye. Here are a few things to remember when composing a press release.

Do not abuse the power of the press release. Keep your audience and your purpose in mind when submitting press releases. Make sure that your news is newsworthy. Limit your press releases to your most important news. If reporters get many releases from you that are not newsworthy they are less likely to pay attention when you do have something important to tell.

When sending your press releases try to think of who in the media would be interested in your news. Rather than blasting your press release to every media, target the reporters who cover your specific topic such as business, education, technology or other areas of focus. Don't forget to send your release to magazines and other publications that specialize in the topics relating to your release.

Essentials in a Press Release

Start with a basic outline of the information you want to use in your press release. Always begin your press release with FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE or the date the press release is to be publicized in the top left hand corner.

Contact Information

Include your name, title, company name, telephone number, fax number, web site address and email address. You may also include a home phone number or cell phone number.

Headline

Use an eye-catching headline. The reporter should be able to know exactly what your press release is about

Dateline

Include the date of your release and the city and state you are sending your release from.

Body

Include a compelling first sentence that will lead your readers into the rest of your release. Provide facts and use quotes in your release. Keep the information short and to the point. Try to keep the copy to one page. More than one page could lessen the chances of your release being published.

Boilerplate

This is the standard paragraph that should be at the bottom of every press release that you send out. Thinks of it as your company's signature. This will be a sentence or two that describes your company. Include your web site address, company phone number and other general helpful information.

After the boilerplate, center three pound signs - # # # - in the middle of the page to signify the end of the release.

Remember to keep your release creative, concise and easy for reporters to use.

Additional information and places to send your press release