All you need to know about Press Releases

In this world where media and communications takes a lead above all else press releases are of primary importance. Also referred to as a news release, or media release, or press statement it is usually a recorded communication directed at the members of the media for the purpose of making an announcement that is newsworthy. Typically agencies that handle the press communications for various companies pass these releases on to the editors of newspapers, magazines, television channels and other media networks. It provides the reporters basics of the information that they might need in order to formulate a story. These are typically targeted at newspapers and magazines and TV channels, so that via the print and broadcast medium the company can reach out and spread the message to maximum number of people possible.

Use of press releases is a common practice in the field of Public Relations. Press Releases can be used to announce a wide array of information ranging from new products or services, sales or other financial data, information about mergers and acquisitions, scheduled events, accomplishments, awards, personal promotions etc. Usually aimed at gaining favorable media attention, press releases are meant to forward the company’s agenda to the public at large.

Typically a press release consists of some common elements like:
A Headline: which briefly summarizes the news in one line and is aimed to catch the attention of the journalists
A Dateline: which usually has the release date and the city from which the news originates
Introduction: which generally contains basic information and answers the five W’s – who, where, what, when, and why
Body: which gives you further information about the news, including some form of data, statistics, or other information pertaining to the news
Boilerplate or Backgrounder: which gives you the background information about the issuing company, individual or organization
Media Contact Information: which gives you the contact details including name, email address, phone numbers and the address of the contact person of the agency publishing the information