According to Novus Group, we should think of press releases as a link between a company and the media. It helps shape public perception and controls the narrative about what is being said about the business. While many agencies use press releases almost exclusively for announcements, there are other uses that can be capitalised on.
At a time when many South Africans flock to online news sites and social media to stay informed about the world around them, it is easy to forget about the importance of the press release. Despite the decline in print readers, as was evident in the Novus Group’s ’10 Years in Print Media’ report, the press release remains an important tool when it comes to driving awareness about a company and its spokespeople.
‘Press releases continue to play a critical role in driving brand messages, establishing credibility for organisations and strengthening relationships with journalists,’ said Joe Hamman, Director of Novus Group. ‘Of course, there is an art to writing a press release that can resonate as much with the journalist it is being sent to as it does with the readership of their publication.’
At a time when the media is flooded with information, just like the public at large, press releases provide a structured and reliable source of news. They help businesses stand out by delivering newsworthy content that should be tailored to the publication they are being distributed to. Press releases can also provide vital SEO benefits by driving traffic to company websites, improving search engine rankings, and enhancing online visibility.
How To Write A Compelling Press Release
- Link it to current events or trends. To capture attention, a press release should be relevant to what’s happening in the world. Connect the release to current events, trends or hot topics to increase its appeal.
- Ensure newsworthiness, or think of why a journalist (or the public) should care about the content in the press release. Is it providing valuable information, announcing something significant or offering a unique perspective? A press release should not be a sales pitch. Rather, it must deliver relevant news.
- Avoid jargon as the language used must be clear and accessible. Avoid technical jargon or industry-specific terms that may alienate the journalist or their readers. Remember, a press release must communicate effectively and not confuse the audience.
- Optimise for SEO by including relevant keywords, adding links to the company website and sharing the press release on various platforms to increase its reach and boost its online presence.
- Employ customisation and ensure quality.
‘Press releases are an essential tool in any company’s communication strategy,’ said Hamman.
NOVUS GROUP
https://novusgroup.co.za/
