How
to write an effective Press Release
 So you've
become a professional racerchick and need to
get your name & accomplishments out there.
Although a professional media representative has
the background and experience to do this for
you - sometimes when starting out you'll be
faced with doing it alone....so here are a few
pointers:
We've asked
people in the industry, the journalists,
editors and on the other side the PR, Media
Relations coordinators on how to write an
effective press release. Unless you are a
household name chances are your release may
not be picked up by the media but on the same
token there is the chance it might. Note
writing your release should differ from the
release public companies must write but the
basic rules remain the same. Be concise, brief
and to the point - my time is as valuable as
yours. "I like the heading to be to the
point" said one editor, "I like it to
summarize the release". But another
journalist said a catchy headline is sure to
draw his attention. But they both agree the
first paragraph is the most important - make
this informative. The preference is still a
one-page release - no more! A quote is
appreciated but only after the important
criteria is dealt with. Please no fluff
paragraphs - cut to the chase!
Biggest
mistakes:
No
Contact Information: If a journalist
wants an interview they need to get in touch
with you. If there are some important
details missing - they need to get in
touch with you. Provide all contact
information.
- Old
News: "Why do I want to hear
about your finish when the race was 2 days
ago!" said one writer. Remember
deadlines - journalists want the goods
right away - make sure your release is
sent promptly.
- Spelling
and Grammar: This racerchick
isn't the best at this herself so proof
read, proof read and proof read. A
well-written release will show your
professionalism - poor copy and silly
mistakes take away from you & your
team.
- Truth:
Are you the fastest & greatest
super-racer on this planet? There's a
thin line between padding a release with
illogical representation and showing
confidence. Keep it factual and honest.
This is especially important when
including a quote. If your race finish is
not podium - that's fine but do
include (without blame) what happened and
how you will overcome it in the next race.
We look forward
to the next installment of Racerchick 101
where we'll look at WHO to send your releases
to. No one like SPAM - so we'll discuss how to
find the right people for your media list- how
to make and manage a media list and how to get
the media to notice you.
If
there are other areas you'd like to see us
cover, or you'd like to provide your
insight, ideas and share your experiences, we
invite you to do so on our forum or by
e-mailing us here at info@racerchicks.com
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