A press release is an announcement distributed to members of the press for publication. For example – The company sent a press release announcing its new product.

Definition of Press Release: A press release is a written announcement that seeks to draw media attention to a specific event, product or service.

A news release, media release, press release or press statement is a written or recorded communication directed at members of the news media for the purpose of making an announcement. Typically, they are mailed, faxed, or e-mailed to assignment editors at newspapers, magazines, radio stations, television stations, and/or television networks. Commercial press-release distribution services are also used to distribute news releases.

A press release is sent to journalists to encourage them to develop an article on a specific subject or topic. A press release is generally biased towards the objectives of the author. It is written to highlight an important event, program, or piece of information. It succinctly describes the who, what, when, where, why and how of the subject matter.

Sometimes confused with articles, press releases should be written in a more journalistic style called the pyramid, where the most newsworthy information is presented first. Press releases are kicked off with a headline, which is a catchy title designed to explain the general news angle while grabbing journalist’s attention. Press releases are dated and contain the hometown of the issuing person, company or organization.

Writing quality press releases is a process requiring skill and experience. Every word of a press release may be scrutinized, so careful wording is essential. This is why many companies turn to outside public relation firms for official press releases and other media contacts. Inaccurate or poorly worded information in an official press release can come back to haunt a company or organization. For this reason, most press releases are very succinct and businesslike in tone.

How to
Read our How To section for more information about writing a press release. Here you will find tips and basic information about press releases. Read the How to write a press release