How long should press release be?

Contents:

1. Importance of having the right length for press releases
2. The recommended length for press releases, along with supporting data and research.
3. Factors to consider when determining the length of a press release (e.g. target audience, type of announcement, etc.)
4. Best practices for writing concise and impactful press releases
5. Tips for editing and refining press releases to meet the ideal length
6. The consequences of having press releases that are too long or too short
7. Case studies or examples of well-written press releases of varying lengths

Importance of having the right length for press releases

The length of a press release can play a significant role in its success. A well-written and well-structured press release can generate interest and attract media attention, leading to increased visibility and credibility for your brand. On the other hand, a press release that is too long or too short can detract from its impact and may not effectively communicate your message.

Having the right length for a press release is crucial because:

• Attention Span: With the abundance of information available online, it’s essential to grab the reader’s attention quickly. A press release that is too long may lose the reader’s interest before they reach the most important information. On the other hand, a press release that is too short may not provide enough information to adequately convey the message.

• Clarity and Concision: A well-written press release should be clear and concise, providing only the most relevant information. Having the right length for your press release can help to ensure that the information is presented in an easy-to-digest format, making it more likely to be read and shared.

• Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Press releases that are optimized for search engines are more likely to be found and read by potential customers. A press release that is too long may contain irrelevant information that can negatively impact its SEO. On the other hand, a press release that is too short may not provide enough content for search engines to rank it effectively.

• Credibility: A well-written press release can establish credibility and enhance the reputation of your brand. A press release that is too long or too short may be seen as amateurish or lacking attention to detail, detracting from the credibility of your brand.

Having the right length for a press release is essential to ensure that your message is effectively communicated, that it grabs the reader’s attention, and that it enhances the credibility of your brand. By taking the time to determine the ideal length for your press release, you can increase its chances of success and reach your desired outcome. 

Reference: Prezly’s ‘The perfect press release length: how long should a press release be? We asked the experts’.

The recommended length for press releases

The recommended length for a press release varies, but most experts agree that it should be between 400-800 words. A press release that is too long may become overwhelming or difficult to digest, while a press release that is too short may not provide enough information to effectively communicate the message.

According to a study by PR Newswire, the average length of a press release in 2018 was 421 words. The study also found that press releases with a length of 400-499 words had the highest average read rate, with a 27.4% read rate. This resonates with Newswire recommendation of 300-400 words in the post – What Is the Ideal Press Release Length? 

Another study by Cision, a leading provider of media and influencer outreach software, found that the ideal length for a press release was between 400-600 words (2021 State of the Press Release). The study found that press releases in this length range received the most engagement from journalists and other stakeholders, leading to higher visibility and credibility for the brand.

The recommended length for a press release is between 400-800 words, with a sweet spot of 400-600 words for maximum engagement and impact. It’s important to keep in mind that the length of a press release will depend on various factors, including the type of announcement, target audience, and overall message. However, the data and research suggest that a length between 400-800 words is the most effective for press releases.

Factors to consider when determining the length of a press release

Determining the length of a press release requires considering several key factors. Here are some of the most important factors to consider when deciding the length of your press release:

• Type of Announcement: The type of announcement you are making can have a significant impact on the length of your press release. For example, a major product launch or significant company news may warrant a longer press release, while a minor update or routine company news may require a shorter press release.

• Target Audience: The target audience for your press release is an important consideration when determining its length. A technical audience may require a longer, more detailed press release, while a general audience may require a shorter, more straightforward press release.

• Purpose of the Press Release: The purpose of the press release is another important factor to consider when determining its length. If the goal is to generate media coverage, a longer press release may provide more information for journalists to work with. If the goal is to provide information to customers, a shorter press release may be more effective.

• Company Guidelines: Some companies have specific guidelines for press releases, including length requirements. It’s important to be aware of any guidelines that your company may have when determining the length of your press release.

• Available Information: The amount of information available to include in your press release can also impact its length. If you have a lot of information to include, you may need a longer press release. If you have limited information, a shorter press release may be more appropriate.

Determining the length of a press release requires considering several key factors, including the type of announcement, target audience, purpose of the press release, company guidelines, and available information. By carefully considering these factors, you can determine the ideal length for your press release and ensure that your message is effectively communicated.

Best practices for writing concise and impactful press releases

Writing an impactful and concise press release requires following some best practices that can help you effectively communicate your message. Here are some tips for writing the best press releases:

• Get to the Point: Start your press release with a clear and concise headline that sums up the main message. Your opening should be direct and to the point, with the most important information coming first.

• Use Active Voice: Write in the active voice, which makes your press release more engaging and easier to understand. Avoid passive voice and long, complex sentences.

• Highlight Key Information: Make sure to highlight the most important information, such as key benefits and key features, in your press release. This will help your target audience understand the main message and remember it.

• Use Subheadings: Breaking up your press release with subheadings can help make it easier to read and understand. It also helps your target audience quickly identify the most important information.

• Keep it Simple: Use simple language and avoid using industry jargon or technical terms that may be difficult for your target audience to understand. Keep your press release concise and avoid lengthy explanations.

• Use Quotes: Including quotes from company executives or other relevant individuals can help add depth and context to your press release. However, be selective and keep the quotes brief and relevant.

• Include a Call to Action: Encourage your target audience to take action by including a call to action at the end of your press release. For example, you can ask them to visit your website or contact you for more information.

In conclusion, writing a concise and impactful press release requires following best practices such as getting to the point, using active voice, highlighting key information, using subheadings, keeping it simple, using quotes, and including a call to action. By following these tips, you can write a press release that effectively communicates your message and helps your target audience understand the main points.

Tips for editing and refining press releases to meet the ideal length

Editing and refining your press release is an important step to ensure that it meets the ideal length. Here are some tips for editing and refining your press release:

• Be concise: Avoid using unnecessary words and phrases, and stick to the most important information. Try to get your message across in as few words as possible.

• Eliminate redundancies: Look for repeating information and eliminate it. This will help you streamline your press release and make it more concise.

• Use bullet points: Break up long paragraphs into bullet points. This makes it easier for your target audience to understand the information and helps you to get your message across more effectively.

• Use statistics and data: Including statistics and data can add credibility to your press release, but make sure to use them in a way that supports your main message.

• Get feedback: Have someone else review your press release and provide feedback. They may be able to suggest edits that can help you make it more concise and impactful.

Editing and refining your press release is an important step to ensure that it meets the ideal length. By being concise, eliminating redundancies, using bullet points, using statistics and data, and getting feedback, you can refine your press release and ensure that it effectively communicates your message.

Additionally, for more tips on how to write a compelling press release, you may want to check out our previous blog post “How to Write a Compelling Press Release?” which covers a range of topics including the structure of a press release, how to grab the reader’s attention, and more. This post provides further guidance on how to make your press release as impactful as possible and can complement the information provided in this section on “Tips for editing and refining press releases to meet the ideal length”.

Consequences of having press releases that are too long or too short

Having press releases that are either too long or too short can have negative consequences for your business. A press release that is too long can overwhelm your target audience, making it difficult for them to retain the information and understand your message. On the other hand, a press release that is too short may not provide enough information to fully communicate your message.

Here are some of the consequences of having press releases that are too long or too short:

• Lack of engagement: If your press release is too long, your target audience may lose interest and not engage with the content. Similarly, if your press release is too short, it may not provide enough information to pique the interest of your target audience.

• Missed opportunities: If your press release is too long, you may miss out on opportunities to get your message across. Similarly, if your press release is too short, you may not be able to fully convey the importance of your announcement.

• Decreased credibility: A press release that is too long or too short can decrease the credibility of your business. This can lead to negative perceptions and mistrust among your target audience.

It is important to find the right balance when it comes to the length of your press release. Striving for the ideal length can help you engage your target audience, effectively communicate your message, and maintain your credibility.

In addition to the information in this article, we also offer a collection of free press release templates to help you craft the perfect press release for your needs. These templates cover a range of different types of announcements and are designed to provide a solid foundation for your press release, making it easier for you to get started. Whether you’re announcing a new product launch, a major milestone, or a change in leadership, our templates will help you get your message across in a clear and concise manner. So if you’re looking for a little extra support when writing your press release, be sure to check out our collection of free press release templates.

If you’re looking for a professional and effective way to get your message out to the public, our press release writing service is here to help. Our team of experienced writers knows how to craft a press release that will capture the attention of your target audience and deliver your message in the most impactful way possible. Whether you’re announcing a new product, a major milestone, or a change in leadership, our team will work with you to create a press release that is tailored to your needs and designed to get results. We understand the importance of having a well-written and well-structured press release, and we’re here to help you achieve that goal. So why wait? Contact us today to learn more about our press release writing services and how we can help you get your message out to the world.