Your church or organization wants to get attention from the local press. But where to start? Here are a few rules:
1) Don't send a press release twice a week. Choose your events carefully. An expansion of the building might get a mention, maybe even a story. The hiring of a new babysitter won't.
2) Target the right editor. If it's a business organization, it will go to the business editor. Even better, send it to the listings compiler. Newspapers will usually have that employee's contact information online or in the print version. So, know your targeted news agency. Scout listings may go in the local section, while churches and schools may be covered in the lifestyles sections.
3) Non-profit radio and TV stations are great ways to get your press release or PSA (Public Service Announcement) noticed. They frequently have time blocked for announcing PSAs.
4) No flowery language allowed. Cut out the "greatest church in town" verbage and get to the point. What is happening? When? Who is invited? Yes, the five "Ws."
5) You absolutely must include contact information for publication, or at least so the news agency can confirm your credibility.
Laura Mohammad, a Texas-based writer, is available to produce press releases.
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