Writing News and Press Releases

Being able to write a good news story, press release or publicity notice is a skill that can set you apart in the workplace. Getting the word out is an essential activity for every organization. Acquire the skills good journalists have and learn how to craft a news story, press release or publicity notice that will get attention.

Agenda

Unit 1
The Skills good journalists have
-What journalists know how to do
-How to think like your audience
-Kinds of publicity notices
-Keys to successful publicity notices

Unit 2
Writing a good news story
-The inverted pyramid
-The 5 Ws and H
-How not to bury the lead
-Writing a good headline for your story

Unit 3
Creating the Successful Press Release
-The press release format
-Quotes, how many to use, who to quote and how
-How and where to highlight your organization and contact
-Avoiding the direct sales pitch

Unit 4
Distributing Your Press Release
-Targeting media, journalists and audiences
-Email press releases
-Print press releases
-Getting attention