Voice of Business Blog

Press releases serve as powerful tools for organizations to communicate key messages, announce significant developments, and garner media attention. Whether you're hosting an event, unveiling a new product, or sharing important company updates, a well-crafted press release can amplify your message and enhance your brand's visibility.

This guide is designed to help empower our members to share your news effectively on our website and Voice of Business newsletter, as well as to your customers, shareholders, and the local media! Best of all, you don't have to worry about adhering to exact AP style guides or technicalities. By focusing on these general principles, you can confidently convey your message and ensure it has the desired effect.

Key Components of a Press Release:

1. Headline: The headline is your first opportunity to grab the reader's attention. Craft a concise and compelling headline that encapsulates the essence of your announcement.
2. Body: The body of the press release should provide all relevant information in a clear and concise manner. Include the who, what, when, where, why, and how of your announcement, ensuring that key details are prominently featured.
3. Quote: Incorporating a quote from a key spokesperson adds credibility and a human touch to your press release. Choose a quote that reinforces your key message and highlights the significance of your announcement.
4. Boilerplate: A brief boilerplate about your organization should be included at the end of the press release. This section provides essential background information about your company and helps establish credibility with readers.
5. Contact Information: Conclude the press release with contact details for media inquiries or further information. Ensure that the contact person listed is readily available and responsive to media queries.

Greater Rochester Chamber has created an annotated example press release to show these tips in action and a fill-in-the-blank template to help organizations get started.