Guidance /
How to Write a Press Release
Learn what a press release is, how to write one, and how to send it to local press in your area.
Press releases are powerful tools to tell your League story, deliver key messages to voters, and connect with the community your League serves. Not every press release looks the same, but there are some general rules and best practices for creating effective press releases.
The slide deck at the button below walks through the purpose of a press release or press statement, how and when to send one, and what each press release should include.
Other Tips
Timeliness
It's important to keep in mind that press releases are most effective when they are sent out in as timely a manner as possible. News moves very fast, and a statement sent even just one day after the news occurred is not likely to be picked up by press.
To help with timeliness, it's useful to draft a press release ahead of time if you anticipate what the news will be. In fact, the LWVUS communications team often drafts two or more press releases for a couple of possible outcomes. Then, when we know the actual outcome of the news, we only need to tweak our draft rather than write from scratch. This saves a lot of time when it really matters.
Press Lists
Build a list of journalists in your area with their email addresses so that you can BCC this entire list when you send a press release. Think of journalists who cover general news, local government, and elections. Be sure to select large news outlets in your area as well as specialized community outlets and outlets serving diverse communities.
The LWVUS communications team can also pull a state-wide press list for state Leagues upon request. Email [email protected] to request a list for your state League.
Publish on Your Website
After sending your press release to journalists, be sure to post the press release on your website. This establishes a record of your League's statements and allows the public to view your statements as well. It also provides a link to your press release that you can use in other applications like social media and newsletters.
Templates
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Media Advisory Template: A media advisory is a special press release used to invite press to cover a public event your League is hosting.
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LWV Organizational Description Template: Useful for boilerplates at the end of press releases.
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