Thursday, January 31, 2008

How to write a press release

I did something that I have not done in a long time. I went to petgroomer.com and checked the message board. It's not that I don't like petgroomer.com, I have just been too busy.

Anyway, when I went there I saw a questions about press releases. Being the kind, helpful person that I am, I answered the post.

After I answered the post, some more questions popped up.

"What kind of info do you put in a press release?" and "Any samples?"

So I decided to share some important points about writing a press release and more importantly, how to get your press release printed. I have included a sample press release from my Groomers Marketing Course.


Here is the sample press release that I have used. This press release turned into a full page article from a local newspaper. You have my permission to use it. Where ever you see the words in bold print is where you want to put your business name and contact information:

For Immediate Release Contact: Insert your name
Insert your number


Does Your Dog Shed A Lot? Free Report Offers Help


Does your dog shed a lot? If you said “yes” you’re not alone. According to recent surveys, one of the biggest complaints among dog owners is shedding problems. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to help reduce the amount of shedding that your dog does. Your name, owner of Your business name, has recently developed a report entitled “How To Reduce Your Dog’s Shedding In 3 to 5 Days.” The report offers eight steps that any dog owner can apply.

“Shedding is a natural, normal process; you should never try to eliminate shedding. We want to help dog owners reduce and control the amount of shedding. All dogs shed to a certain degree; the problem is when your dog starts to shed excessively,” says your name. “What we offer in the report are simple solutions for dog owners to use and apply. If the steps are followed, you can sometimes reduce your dog’s shedding by 75%.”

Here are a few suggestions:

1. Add safflower oil to your dog’s food. Safflower oil is high in Omega 3 fatty acids. It has been proven to help dogs with skin and coat problems, a teaspoon for small dogs and a tablespoon for larger dogs is all you need.

2. Apple cider vinegar can greatly help dogs with dry flaky skin. The next time you give your dog a bath, add half a cup of apple cider vinegar to one gallon of water and pour the mixture over your dog’s coat. Let it soak for five minutes and then rinse. This is especially good for dogs with skin problems and “hot spots”.

3. An easy way to rid your dog of excessive hair is to use a lint roller. Start by going against the grain of your dog’s fur and then go in the other direction. You’ll be amazed by how much extra hair this will pick up.

To get the complete report “How to reduce your dogs shedding in 3 to 5 days” call your business name at your number

Here's the thing about press releases. The press release has to written in a way that will peak the editors interest. When the editor is looking at press releases they are thinking about what's in the press release that is of any interest to their readers.

When you send in your press release make sure that it is double spaced and if you can send in a picture. This will increase your chances of getting printed.

Don't forget to send your press release to TV, radio and newspaper. You get get the names and addresses of all the media in your area by going to Gebbieinc.com.

Good luck!

Eric

P.S. Would you like to learn more marketing and advertising techniques designed just for groomers? Check out Groomers Marketing Course.

No comments: