Thursday: February 7, 2008.
Richard Beeland, the Media Relations Director for the city, and Janis Hashe, writer and editor professional for Chattanooga, came to our Process and Materials class on Thursday and offered many insightful tips for writing a press release.
I never really knew how much trouble it was for an article to be published until now.
Some of the tips offered:
1. Keep the article simple and “dumb” so people can easily understand.
2. Make sure that the reporter completely understands the material that is being written so they can get a suitable quote from whoever you might need a quote from.
3. Stay away from jargon, unless it is being used with people who can relate.
4. When sending the article, make sure it is completely tweaked and then it is sent to the appropriate editor for that particular section, otherwise it will be canned.
5. Send a press packet or electronic packet.
6. Make sure you remind the editors and press release to follow up.
7. Be professional.
