How to send your next Press Release on AP News by KISS PR Associated Press Distribution Service

How to send your next Press Release on AP News by KISS PR Associated Press Distribution Service?

Mastering the Art of AP Press Release Writing and Publishing: A Comprehensive Guide

Press releases are essential tools for businesses and individuals looking to share important news, establish credibility, and enhance visibility. For those navigating the world of public relations, understanding the nuances of writing and publishing press releases is crucial. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, focusing on AP (Associated Press) standards, writing techniques, and submission tips, tailored for the KISS PR Brand Story ecosystem.

What Is a Press Release?

A press release is a concise, factual announcement sent to journalists and media outlets to inform them of newsworthy events, product launches, partnerships, or milestones. Its goal is to capture the attention of editors and journalists, encouraging them to publish the information or follow up for more details.

For a press release to be effective, it must be timely, relevant, and adhere to industry standards, such as the Associated Press (AP) format.

How to Write a Press Release for AP

The Associated Press is a globally recognized news agency, and its style guide sets the standard for journalistic writing. Writing a press release in AP style ensures professionalism, clarity, and a higher likelihood of publication.

Key Elements of an AP-Style Press Release:

1. Headline: A compelling, concise title that grabs attention. Use active verbs and make the headline relevant to the audience. Example: "Tech Startup Revolutionizes Online Shopping with AI-Powered Platform"
2. Dateline: Include the city and date of the announcement at the start of the first paragraph. This adds credibility and context. Example: NEW YORK, Jan. 6, 2025 —
3. Lead Paragraph: Answer the key questions: Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How. This paragraph sets the tone for the entire release and should immediately engage the reader.
4. Body: Provide detailed information in descending order of importance. Use supporting facts, quotes, and context to expand on the lead.
5. Boilerplate: Conclude with a brief description of your company or organization, including its mission and contact details.
6. Contact Information: Provide clear contact details for media inquiries. Include a name, phone number, and email address.

Can You Write Your Own Press Release?

Yes, absolutely! Writing your own press release can be cost-effective and empowering. However, it requires a strong understanding of journalistic standards, attention to detail, and a knack for storytelling.

Here are some tips for writing your own press release:

• Start Strong: The first sentence should immediately communicate the news value.
• Keep It Concise: A press release is typically 300–500 words long. Focus on delivering key points without unnecessary fluff.
• Use Quotes Strategically: Including a quote from a company leader or subject matter expert can humanize the story and add credibility.
• Edit and Proofread: Typos or grammatical errors can undermine your message. Always double-check your work.

If you’re unsure, the KISS PR Brand Story platform offers expert services to craft professional press releases tailored to your needs.

How Do I Get My Press Release Published?

Publishing a press release involves strategic distribution. Here are the steps to maximize your chances of getting noticed:

1. Choose the Right Distribution Channels: Options include newswires, direct submissions to journalists, or leveraging platforms like KISS PR Brand Story, which provides access to a network of 1,000+ media outlets.
2. Target the Right Audience: Research and reach out to journalists and media outlets that cover your industry or niche. Personalize your pitch for better engagement.
3. Follow Up: A polite email or call to confirm receipt can make a difference in getting your press release noticed.
4. Use SEO Best Practices: Optimize your press release with relevant keywords to improve online visibility.

How Do I Submit a Press Release to AP News?

Submitting a press release to AP News requires adherence to their strict standards. While individuals cannot directly publish content on AP, they can submit it through accredited news distribution services or work with PR professionals.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Craft a High-Quality Release: Ensure it’s newsworthy, well-written, and in AP style.
2. Use an Accredited Newswire: Services like KISS PR Brand Story or PR Newswire can distribute your release to AP journalists.
3. Leverage Local AP Bureaus: If your news has regional relevance, contacting local AP bureaus can increase your chances of coverage.

What Does AP Format Look Like?

The AP format emphasizes clarity, brevity, and accuracy. Key characteristics include:

• Short Sentences: Avoid overly complex structures.
• Neutral Tone: Stick to factual, unbiased language.
• Consistent Style: Follow the AP Stylebook for grammar, punctuation, and capitalization rules.
• Inverted Pyramid: Present the most critical information first, followed by supporting details.

What Is AP Style Journalism?

AP style is the gold standard for journalistic writing. It prioritizes accessibility, ensuring that stories are easy to read and understand across diverse audiences. For press releases, adopting AP style can significantly increase your credibility with media professionals.

Key Principles of AP Style:

• Spell out numbers below 10 (e.g., "three" instead of "3").
• Use specific dates instead of vague references (e.g., "Jan. 6, 2025" rather than "recently").
• Write in the third person.
• Avoid promotional language or exaggerated claims.

Leveraging KISS PR Brand Story for Press Release Success

At KISS PR Brand Story, we specialize in simplifying the press release process. From crafting compelling narratives to distributing them across our vast network, we help businesses gain the media exposure they deserve. Our white-label services empower agencies, allowing them to offer press release distribution under their own brand.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional or new to PR, our platform ensures your story gets the attention it deserves.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of press release writing and publishing requires an understanding of journalistic standards, a keen sense of storytelling, and strategic distribution. By following AP style guidelines and leveraging expert platforms like KISS PR Brand Story, you can amplify your message and connect with your audience effectively.

Ready to make your mark? Contact KISS PR Brand Story today and let us help you tell your story to the world.