The Journey
A newsletter for chapter advisors, chapter officers, and regional officers.

Writing an Effective News Release

• Develop a masthead with your chapter and college information, your chapter contact's name, address, email address, phone number and date.
  
  
• Begin with a short, attention-grabbing headline.
  
  
• Answer the basic questions of who, what, where, when, why and how.
  
  
• Make the release concise and objective.
  
  
• Try to include a quote from a chapter advisor or member.
  
  
• Explain the event or project as accurately as possible.
  
  
• Limit releases to one or two pages.
  
  
• Provide high quality photographs with clear captions.
  
  
• Distribute the release one week prior to the event.
  
  
• Keep a copy for your files.

• Keep up-to-date media lists.
  
  
• Personalize your material.
  
  
• Contact the media only with newsworthy story ideas.
  
  
• Call reporters during times other than deadline - mornings are usually best.
  
  
• When speaking to reporters, be brief and stick to the point.
  
  
• Know your story and anticipate questions.
  
  
• Be available. Don't make reporters hunt for you. Return phone calls promptly.
  
  
• Always work within a reporter's deadline.
  
  
• When you send information to the press, be sure your chapter members are informed.
  
  
• Take no for an answer. Arguing with reporters alienates them.

Use The Media to Your Advantage

Copyright 1996-2002 by Phi Theta Kappa, Inc. All Rights Reserved. The name, logo and various titles have been registered with the U.S. Patent Office.

This page last modified -- Friday, 14-Nov-2003 11:00:21 CST (cwe)