Got It Right? A Quickie News Release Checklist

Releases that lack energy, focus and purpose are common. They reflect the abilities of their authors, devalue their subjects, and represent a gross waste of paper, postage and time. Before sending out a release, ask five basic questions:

1. Does the release get to the main point immediately?

2. Does the release use quotes appropriately?

3. Does the release provide a suitable platform for back-up materials such as fact sheets and histories.

4. Is the release as short as possible, hopefully no more than a single page?

5. Does the release include all necessary resource information for reporters such as contact names, links, mail, office numbers, cell phone numbers, and addresses?