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Common Press Release Mistakes Women in Business Face Tougher Challenges with Brand Identity 5 Ways to Create Advertising Guaranteed to Increase Your Bottom Line 6 Ways Others Can Promote Your Business Getting Customers to Help You Market Getting the Most from Your Business CardsCommon Press Release Mistakes
Below you will find some of the most common errors that are encountered on a regular basis when drafting a press release. You do not get a second chance to correct the negative impressions left by a poorly written release.
All Upper Case Characters - Never submit a press release in all upper case characters. The headline and body of your press release should be in proper case.
Grammatical Errors - Even the best writers occasionally miss grammatical errors and typos. Please proof read, edit and reproof your press release. If you need editorial assistance there are professional public relations firms available to prepare or edit your press release.
Lack of Content - Make sure that you answer all of the "W" questions, who, what, where, when, why and how to ensure a complete press release.
Press Releases that Scream BUY ME! - Do not write your press release like an advertisement. Remember that journalists are NOT your marketing partners. Their job is to relay information to their audience, not to sell. A good press release informs the media. If your press release screams, BUY ME, then you might want to consider reworking your release.
Hype Flags - This is a close cousin to the BUY ME problem. A "Hype Flag" is anything that challenges the credibility of your press release. Examples of "Hype Flags" include an abundance of exclamation points or wild product and service claims.
Contact Information - Be sure to include the name and phone number of the contact for your press release at the top of the page. This makes it easier for a newsperson to locate should they want to call you for an interview. If your contact person is not in the office during regular hours, list an alternative number such as a cell phone or home number. An e-mail address should also be included as in this electronic age, many news people schedule appointments online.
Pictures - If you are writing a press release in recognition of an employee (such as a new hire or a promotion) include a photo of the employee with the release. Should your ‘story’ get printed in the paper, there is a chance that the photo will run also. Thus, increasing the amount of free press you receive.
Got more questions or need assistance, Lapdog Productions, LLC can navigate you through the writing and editorial process. Contact us at 434-989-5480.
