💎 10 Critical Press Release Writing Guidelines Every Entrepreneur Should Know

1️⃣ Start Strong and Clear

Your opening line is the hook that decides whether a journalist keeps reading. It should instantly answer the who, what, where, when, and why of your story.

💡 Example: Leadership coach hosts free virtual summit to help business owners prevent burnout and reclaim work-life balance.

✨ Pro Tip: Don’t build up to the point — lead with it. The first two sentences should make someone stop scrolling and think, “This is worth covering.”

2️⃣ Make It Easy for the Media

The easier you make a journalist’s job, the more likely they are to use your story. Include key facts, quotes, and background details they can copy or adapt instantly.

💡 Example: Add a short “About” paragraph, a contact name with a phone number and email, and one quotable line from you that summarises your message.

✨ Pro Tip: Imagine your release being lifted word-for-word into an article. Would it still sound polished and credible? If yes — you’ve nailed it.

3️⃣ Think Like a Reader

A powerful press release doesn’t just inform — it engages. To capture attention, you need to write from the reader’s perspective, not your own. Ask yourself what the audience would genuinely find interesting, helpful, or inspiring.

💡 Example: Career coach shares five strategies professionals can use to pivot confidently into more fulfilling roles.

✨ Pro Tip: Before sending, read your press release as if you’re the journalist’s audience. Would it make you pause, feel something, or learn something new? If not, refine your angle until it does.

4️⃣ Make It Relevant and Beneficial

A press release should always answer the unspoken question: “Why should anyone care?” Tie your announcement to real trends, needs, or emotions.

💡 Example: Nutrition expert reveals how mindful eating can reduce anxiety — backed by new research.

✨ Pro Tip: Link your story to something timely — a national awareness week, a seasonal theme, or a social issue your audience already cares about.

5️⃣ Back Up Every Claim with Facts

Facts build trust. Use data, research, or measurable results to strengthen your message.

💡 Example: Study finds 68% of entrepreneurs feel more productive after adopting this three-minute morning ritual.

✨ Pro Tip: Quote credible sources or reference your own results. Journalists love ready-made proof points.

6️⃣ Include a Clear Company or Expert Bio

End with a short paragraph that establishes who you are, what you do, and how people can reach you. It’s called a boilerplate — and it matters.

💡 Example: Jane Smith is a mindset and business strategist helping women entrepreneurs scale sustainably through her signature Success Blueprint Program. For interviews or features, contact jane@successblueprint.com.

✨ Pro Tip: Keep it factual and under 100 words. Think of it as your business card for the media.

7️⃣ Be Concise and Elegant

Less is more. Avoid filler, hype, or overused phrases. A great press release gets to the point — fast.

💡 Example: Instead of saying “incredible, life-changing results,” say “helped 200+ clients double their revenue within 12 months.”

✨ Pro Tip: 400–500 words is the sweet spot. Enough for depth, short enough for busy editors.

8️⃣ Get Permission Before Quoting Others

If you’re referencing another brand, organisation, or person — get written permission. It keeps your reputation polished and your relationships intact.

💡 Example: Before including a client’s testimonial or collaboration, confirm they’re happy for their name to appear publicly.

✨ Pro Tip: Protect your credibility by ensuring every quote or mention is verified and approved.

9️⃣ Keep Exclamation Marks Out of It

Excitement belongs in marketing copy — not press releases. One exclamation mark can be forgiven; several will kill your credibility.

💡 Example: Avoid “This is the most amazing opportunity ever!!!” Instead, let your results speak.

✨ Pro Tip: Professional tone wins trust. The more factual you sound, the more journalists take you seriously.

🔟 Avoid Industry Jargon

Overly technical language turns readers off. Use terms everyone understands so your message feels accessible and clear.

💡 Example: Replace “optimising brand visibility via synergistic digital ecosystems” with “helping businesses get seen online through smarter content strategy.”

✨ Pro Tip: Speak to journalists, not at them. Simple is sophisticated — and far more likely to get coverage.