Write news releases that stand out and get published
A one-day course covering news judgment, language, structure and distribution of press releases
This course combines three key competencies: language and technical writing skills, news judgment, and tailoring news writing for the online space. Through practical workshops and expert coaching, you will learn to write powerful press releases that drive mainstream media coverage and also shape reputation in digital media.
Course format
This course is popular for its hands-on format, revolving around a variety of fun and fast-paced writing exercises. Expect to spend a lot of your day writing, not listening. You will also receive personal coaching on your writing style – and feel free to bring along any press releases or other texts that you are working on, if you would like in-depth feedback and guidance.
This course comprises four modules each covering a set of key concepts and skills. Within each module, best practice and key concepts are covered off in a concise briefing, followed by a range of stimulating learning activities like team workshops, group discussions, topical case studies and role-play exercises.
Modules:
1) Press release essentials
2) Press release presentation: structure and format
3) Press release content: news, language and colour
4) Press releases online: search and social media impact
Learning outcomes
After this course you will be able to:
- Understand how journalists use press releases, what they want and need from them
- Plan a press release that will grasp journalists’ attention from the start
- Format and structure your press release correctly with all of the essential elements
- Spice up your press releases with news value, powerful language and memorable colour
- Write and distribute press releases that make an impact online as well as with the news media
Who should attend
Core-level courses are pitched at a level to help you analyse core concepts and execute universal skills.
This course is aimed at everybody whose task it is to write press releases on a regular basis and who needs to deliver more value through stronger writing skills, from fundamentals to fine-tuning.
Qualification credit
This course provides Advanced Professional Qualification credit, independently accredited by Edexcel. For details, download the course brochure.
Feedback
Enjoyed thoroughly!
- Deepa Rai, International Alert
I liked that we were such a small group and got so much one to one
- Emily Swain, FSL
Liked the information, delivery style, top tips from real life
- Lorenzo Casarosa, Royal Institution of Naval Architects
Small group, good knowledge and experience
- Paul Sandell, Thomson Financial
Very accessible, good examples and visual materials — clearly explained
- Helen Wood, Treehouse
The small group and informal approach made the training environment most comfortable
- Sebastian Gordon, Cafod