What Makes a Great News Story?

Many times it begins with a news announcement, or a press release.  But reporters receive dozens every day, so a word of advice from this top public relations company:  A press release must be solid and include at least one of these qualities to capture their attention:

1. Everyone or nearly everyone can relate.  2. Holds the interest and those reading or viewing the story; not at all boring.  3. Anticipates and attaches to the big news story.  4. Non-promotional.  5. Developments that are ongoing could likely call for a series of stories.  6. Experts are much-needed resources for journalists.  7. Research, ground breaking and peer reviewed preferred.  8. Short quotes that are memorable, colorful and truthful.  9. Opposition and controversy make your story interesting to the reader/viewer.  10. Never-before-seen or heard.  11. Pictures and props are critical to a good news story.  12. Real people, not actors or role-playing while sticking to the facts. Read more here.

Free press release posting sites can also boost search engine optimization: prlog.org, i-newswire.com, openpr.com

Answer the News Input Form (NIF) to make your story great

What is your news announcement? Examples: Grand Opening, New Hire, 1,000th Customer

Provide Who, What, Where, When and Why

Additional information: Spokesperson quote, industry trends &/or statistics

Wish list. What blogs, magazines, newspapers, etc. do you see as the best fit/focus for this press release?

Provide name and URL for each please

Approximate date for press release to be sent and pitched to the reporters?

Your Name

Your email or telephone

If telephone, provide the day, time of day -- including time zone -- to call you

Feel free to upload a logo, photo or screen shot that corresponds with the press release.

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