Most news gathering organizations welcome a newstrip; and all accept press releases.

Do you know how to write an effective press release?

First off have something to write about. That might be easier than you think. Is your company involved in a community event? That’s news. Have you been recognized in your industry? That’s news. Write it up and send it in.

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Next, keep your press release short and informational. People like to wax eloquent, but editors don’t have time for that. Leave the long, detailed explanations for someone that is paying you by the word, think of Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables. You have a better chance of getting attention when your writing is concise and clear. State the facts and give some contact information. Also submit everything through email. That’s the way we communicate now. Wait a day or so and make a follow-up phone call to be sure your email got there. We communicate through email, but it’s not infallible.

Yes, you really can write and submit your own press releases. You can also shovel your own snow and unclog your own pipes. Or you can get professionals to do all those things for you so you can concentrate on running your business.