Writing a press release is one of the most straightforward ways of attracting attention. But make sure it is good. Keep it short, use a good headline that really gets to the guts of the issue and make sure you cover the five W’s: who, what, when, where and why. Use facts and statistics to back up your arguments and, where possible, use quotes by well known spokespeople to give your news that extra “umph”. And, of course, don’t forget to include all your contact details and information about your mission.
[Insert name of your group]
PRESS RELEASE
For immediate release [insert date]
[INSERT TITLE]
[Describe main action, when, where, who and why]
[Strong quote from local campaigner on why the group is taking action]
[Describe background to campaign and broader context of campaigns goals]
[quote and name expert]
[Brief conclusion of expected outcome etc]
[complete schedule of events, if applicable]
For further information please contact:
[Name of media contact]
Telephone:
E-mail:
Web site of organization (if available)
Notes for Editors: [Add blibliographic references where applicable and say: “for more information about xxx go to www.xxxxxxxx.org]
ENDS or ### [Add this to ensure that it is clear that the release is complete]
Find out more
Sample press releases: www.amnesty.org
Independent reporting: www.pulitzercenter.org
More journalism tools: www.journalism.org
