December 25, 2009, Newsletter Issue #173: Creating a Well-written Press Release

Tip of the Week

A press release is a valuable marketing tool in the publishing world. It is one of the first tools you need to get your book into the hands of your readers and a way of announcing the news of your publication to the media. A press release should be written in a professional manner as any publication ready material and is definitely worth the effort to make it the best it possibly can be.

You aren’t trying to sell your book with a press release; you are only making it known that you are published. Be sure to give a general overview of your book in a straightforward, journalistic style. It should be informative and easy to read. Also be sure to write your press release in third person, not first. In other words, don’t say, “My book.” Say, “This book.”

Make sure you have a great headline for your press release and your first paragraph should have a good hook. You want critics and readers to get the basics of your book and why it’s interesting. The end of your press release should have important details such as when the book will be on the market, your availability and your contact information.

Listed below are a few more tips you’ll want to keep in mind when creating a great press release:

- Write in an active voice. Don’t use passive sentences.

- Quote authorities or reviews of your book.

- Use short, concise sentences.

- Date your press release with either ‘For immediate release’ or with an actual date.

- Write -30- or # # # at the end of your press release.

- Be sure to include a contact name and information.

You want your press release to be attention grabbing and well-written so that you are ensuring the best coverage you possibly can for your publication. Remember that a press release is one of the first tools you use as a published author to get the news out to the public about your book. With a little time and effort, you can write a great press release that will turn the critics and public’s eye on your new book.

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