The press release is a powerful tool. In fact, 72% of journalists say the press release is one of the most useful types of content a PR pro can deliver. Writing an effective press release can be the key to building your brand’s reputation, earning media coverage, and growing your online presence. But first, you need a news angle.
So – how do you keep your content calendar full of compelling, attention-grabbing content during an uncertain or tumultuous news cycle?
It is likely that your organization is full of great stories waiting to be told. A press release must reveal something new or “newsworthy” to capture the attention of both the media and your audience. A newsworthy piece of content is timely, relevant, impactful; it should overall reveal something and be worth reading or writing about.
Not sure where to start? Take a look at these 40 ideas— the possibilities that exist within your own organization may surprise you:
- Opening a new business
- Relocating or opening a new office
- Announcing company expansion
- Launching a new product
- Announcing a product update or new product feature
- Rebranding or updating your company name
- Announcing contest or competition
- Announcing contest results
- Celebrating a company milestone or anniversary
- Launching a new website
- Supporting a non-profit or cause
- Volunteering
- Receiving a donation
- Participating in a national or local event
- Launching a new campaign
- Results from a survey or study
- Changing a product name
- Receiving an award
- Announcing financial earnings results or forecasts
- Announcing a conference call
- Sharing monthly sales reports
- Releasing a thought leadership piece from an industry expert
- Publishing tips or educational information
- Announcing an acquisition or merger
- Hosting a webinar
- Re-purposing a blog post
- Promoting an upcoming event
- Announcing an accomplishment
- Receiving a certification
- Introducing a new hire
- Announcing a retirement
- Announcing an internal promotion
- Announcing a new partnership or collaboration
- Restructuring your business
- Announcing something tied to a major holiday
- Announcing something tied to a local or national story or event
- Announcing a new service
- Issuing a letter to shareholders
- Announcing a new investor
- Offering a free training or resource
Remember, a press release is not an ad and should not focus on low prices (50% Off! Buy Now!) or use direct appeal to consumers (“you” language). A press release should always lead with a news angle and appeal to the interest of both media and key audiences. Almost anything can be turned into a news story; you just have to find that hook.
