Local Newspapers
Trade Publications
Television and Radio News Outlets
National Press (If there is a national impact)
Describe as concisely as possible:
Who the key players are
Why the project is newsworthy (local angle or human interest aspect)
Geographic location
When it is happening and why
How the project came about
Provide complete contact information
Cell number and email address are vital!
Strong descriptive title
Concise writing style presenting only the key facts
Avoid acronyms and jargon
Include photos and relevant information as necessary
Use relevant direct quotations when writing for print media, indirect quotes for radio and TV
I. Analysis
Why is the press release being created?
Who is the target audience? If there are different audiences, do you have different versions of the press release to send out?
II. Evaluation
Content
Does the topic have news value?
Does the press release have a strong and descriptive title?
Does the press release contain the following information?
The key players - Who does the news impact?
Why it's important
Where is it happening -What geographic area is impacted?
When is it happening
The origin of the project
Style
Have you used short, concise sentences which clearly convey the content?
Is the information in the press release factual rather than opinion-based?
If quotes would add interest to the topic, have you included quotes from appropriate sources?
If a photo would add interest to the topic, have you included a high-quality, relevant photo?
Appearance
Is the release in a standard font and double-spaced with wide margins?
Is the end of the press release clearly marked?
Does the press release include complete contact information?