What to Include in a Press Release for a Product Launch
Whenever you are launching a new product, you will produce a range of marketing materials in order to announce it is available for sale. There are several essentials you should include in a product launch press release to make the most of the opportunity to get media pickups about your new product and spread the word.
Why a press release?
A well-written press release can increase brand awareness and promotes your online presence. The media is always looking for news, and there is nothing more newsworthy in relation to your business than a product being launched.
A press release is not a sales letter
While a press release is a good opportunity to outline the features and benefits of the product in order to show its value, it is not a sales letter. It needs to focus on reporting the news, not a hard sell.
This being the case, there are several elements you need to pay attention to so media representatives don’t dismiss your press release as too “spammy”.
1-A compelling headline
The headline is the most important part of the press release because it is the first thing journalists see. It needs to grab their attention and give them a clue as to what the release will be about. Include the product name, a keyword related to your niche or industry, and something that makes them curious to learn more.
2-A powerful summary
The summary supports the headline and gives more information about the story. It helps media representatives decide if they want to read more. It should also contain keywords and more information about why the product is newsworthy. It can include the main benefit of the product and when it will be due for launch.
3-Add the dateline
Write the location and date of the launch. Include state and date of the release. The city and state should be the same city and state of the company’s headquarters or where the product is being launched.
4-Pack the first paragraph with the most important points
Use the 5W of journalism to make sure you don’t leave out anything:
- Who
- What
- When
- Where
- Why
What is the product, what company developed it, and so on.
5-Second paragraph-the main features and benefits
Every product solves at least one problem. Identify what the main issue is and how your product offers a real solution. Write in full sentences, or bullet points, with features in one column and benefits in the other.
6-Third paragraph
Include additional details about why the product is important. Also get quotations from experts, such as the head of the company, a project manager, and/or someone who is considered to be an expert in their niche or industry.
7-Supporting images and video
Seeing is believing. Press releases that include media will also get picked up 7 to 10 times more often than those that do not.
8-The closing paragraph
Summarize the main points and state where and when the product will be available. Provide a link as needed.
9-A clear call to action
Tell the reader what you want them to do once they have read your press release. In this case, you would send them to the product sales letter and tell them. “Visit URL for more information, or to purchase X product.”
10-Add your boilerplate
The boilerplate section covers information about the company such as the number of years in business, mission statement, and other products the company offers. This section may also include information about the company’s CEO or owner. Above all, it includes contact information, so if anyone wants to follow up with you, they can.
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