How do I prepare a press release for submission?

Preparing a press release for submission involves several critical steps to ensure that it effectively communicates your message and captures the interest of journalists and media outlets. First, begin with a compelling headline that succinctly summarizes the main point of your announcement. The headline should grab attention while remaining informative. Next, follow with a strong lead paragraph that answers the who, what, where, when, why, and how of your news. This should provide the key details that journalists need to understand the significance of your announcement. The subsequent paragraphs can elaborate on the specifics, including quotes from key individuals, relevant statistics, and contextual information that supports your news. It is essential to maintain a clear and concise writing style, avoiding jargon and overly technical language. Keeping the press release to about one page in length is typically recommended. Additionally, include contact information at the end, giving journalists a way to reach you for further inquiries. Finally, before submission, review the press release for any grammatical errors and ensure it follows the formatting guidelines provided by the press release distribution service you choose. eReleases, for instance, typically has specific requirements, so reviewing their guidelines on their website before submission is advisable.