Writing a press release isn't rocket science -- but if you don't do it often, it can be a bit of a challenge. But with the right tools, you can avoid any pitfalls and make your press release writing easier. Before we look at the tools that can help you create a better press release, let's focus on some of the main mistakes you should avoid in your writing. 4 culprits of bad press release writing 1. Euphemism Euphemisms are innocent words that we use in place of potentially more offensive words. A good example is replacing "she died" with "she died". In a press release, this play on words may raise more questions than answers -- or just seem like crap. This can be a problem for journalists. In the end, if the press release is too confusing or just boring, it's thrown aside in favor of a more direct, engaging option.
press release writing 2. Exaggeration The word is often used in poetry to express a point with hyperbole. A common way this is used in press releases is to humanize the product, making it more appealing. For example, "It's so intuitive, it knows what you're thinking before you do it." It's sure to grab your attention, but it's usually accompanied by a healthy dose industry mailing list skepticism. Finally, leave the hyperbole to the poet. When writing a press release, don't exaggerate anything. It will only damage your reputation as a trusted source. Just give it to them, don't exaggerate. 3. Industry terminology Few people outside your industry will understand your jargon. For example, if you are not in the business world, do you understand what a "core competency" or "identity" is? Chances are small - and you don't want to googling every unfamiliar term you come across. So skip the jargon and focus on making your press release available to everyone inside and outside the industry . 4. gibberish We can basically chalk up the term to nonsense. This is when you use pretentious terms to drag down your press release. "Streamlined technology." "Precise positioning." "Innovative design."
At first, these terms may seem flashy and appealing, especially to marketers trying to hype a product. But when you read the press release, it just gets in the way. Instead, stick to the facts. Be detailed, but avoid pretentious phrasing and hype language. Now that you know some dangers to avoid in your writing, let's talk about some free PR tools that can help you make your press release the best it can be. 8 Free PR Tools to Help You Write a Press Release 1. Grammar There are few elements more important to your press release than spelling and grammar. This careless mistake looks unprofessional -- and could mean the end of your release. The tool makes it easy for you by giving you helpful suggestions on spelling and grammar, and keeping a continuous record of mistakes so you always know where you stand. It also integrates with most writing programs and applications. 2. Edited by Hemingway Looking for other editing tools? This one might be more to your taste - especially if you're more intuitive and want more detailed corrections. The Hemingway Editor color-codes every grammar and spelling error as you make it so you can see exactly where the error is and how to fix it.