Question About News Releases.....

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores the use of press releases by Pampered Chef consultants, focusing on how to effectively utilize them for local newspapers and the challenges some participants face in locating the relevant materials on the website.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, inquires about the process of using news releases and whether there are any associated costs.
  • Another participant mentions that while there is no charge to send a press release, it is up to the newspaper to decide if it will be published.
  • Several users express difficulty in finding the press release on the website, sharing their experiences and frustrations.
  • One participant provides guidance on navigating the website to locate the press release section.
  • Another participant shares their background in PR and marketing, offering insights on how to effectively write and send press releases to local newspapers.
  • One participant appreciates the advice about the structure of press releases, specifically the "inverted pyramid" style, and how it affects publication chances.
  • Another participant notes that smaller community newspapers may provide better coverage for such news, especially during slow news periods.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ regarding the effectiveness of press releases and the challenges in accessing them on the website, with no clear consensus emerging on the best practices for sending them.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences and insights related to the use of press releases in their local communities, reflecting a range of familiarity with the process.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking to understand how to utilize press releases effectively and those facing challenges in accessing related resources on the website may find this discussion beneficial.

hoosierchef
hoosierchef
Messages
926
Have any of you used the News Releases? If so, what are we supposed to do? Just send them to our local newspapers or what? This is something new to me. Does it cost anything?

Sorry about all the ????'s. TIA!
 
There's no charge to send a press release, BUT it's at the newspaper's discretion whether it's used or not. They have stacks of press releases, and a lot of them are only used as "filler."
 
Has anyone been able to locate this press release on the website? I am hunting and have followed the directions in the email from yesterday but it is NOT coming up! HELP me all you smart people!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #4
Go to CC, then go to the "Promoting Your Business" Tab. It's listed about half-way down there.
 
I am so sorry... but that's where I've been and it isn't there... there is nothing that says overview or press release or anything. I went to the downloadable tab as well and there is nothing there either... why can't I see this? I'm following your's and the emails instructions... sigh...
 
I'm going to shut down my computer and start up again.... who knows... I can't figure out why I can't see the same things on the website ... I even have my contacts in and I can't find it! :)
 
Instead of rolling over "Promoting Your Business," you actually have to click on it. It then brings you to a DIFFERENT list of items (how stupid!) ....I am thinking that this is what they are calling the "overview of promoting your business"
 
  • Thread starter
  • #8
Thanks for clarifying that Jennifer. Yep. You actually have to click on the tab. Then it is half way down under Press Releases.
 
She must be restarting her computer! :p
 
WHAT would I DO without you guys!!!!!!!!!??????????????
Thanks SO much... I feel really stupid but am relieved to know it wasn't right there staring at me!
 
I used to do PR and Marketing full time (just some background info). Send to the community sections of your local newspapers -- even better if you can get a name. Just call and ask who covers local business community news .

I thought the release they gave us was way too long and poorly written (must have been an intern -- that's who wrote my straight cut releases back in my agency days.) Newspapers cut from the bottom up so you need to write in "pyramid" style. Most important news first. More likely than not the local paper will just run the 1st paragraph. PLus it is alwasy best to have a one page release.

I've attached my edited release -- feel free! (I printed it on pale pink paper)
 

Attachments

Thanks Mandy!! I didn't realize that we could change the wording around and such! I will try this again once I set up a fundraiser...so that I can try and get it in there this time!
 
Mandy~

Thanks! You have probably helped out a lot of us with that extra info about how newspapers will cut from the bottom up. Thanks for editing and posting that!!!
 
It depends on the newspaper, actually and their policies, plus if they want to publish the information or not.The way the press release is written is an inverted pyramid, giving general information first, then narrowing down the details. I like how it is written because it gives pertinent information about the national cause, and then later narrowing it down and saying exactly how they are going about raising the money. I've mailed the press release as-is to a couple of community newspapers. Hopefully they will run something. Sometimes they run it word for word, if they are desperate for something to fill their pages, that is.
 
Yes - "inverted pyramid!" I agree with sailortena -- every paper has different policies. In my experience, smaller community papers tend to give the best coverage of this type of news. If it is a slow news day/week -- they probably will run it word for word -- which would be great!

Here's to a very slow news week and lots of columns to fill!
 
Great job, Mandy on the press release!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #17
MandyK said:
Yes - "inverted pyramid!" I agree with sailortena -- every paper has different policies. In my experience, smaller community papers tend to give the best coverage of this type of news. If it is a slow news day/week -- they probably will run it word for word -- which would be great!

Here's to a very slow news week and lots of columns to fill!
Click to expand...


Mandy, Thanks so much for the info!! It's great to have so many "insiders" on here!! I knew someone would step forward and let us know how the industry tends to work!

Have a grate weekend!
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a news release in the context of direct sales?

A news release in direct sales is a formal announcement issued to the media to inform them about significant events, product launches, promotions, or updates related to a company, such as Pampered Chef. It aims to generate publicity and attract attention from potential customers and the media.

How can I write an effective news release for my Pampered Chef business?

To write an effective news release, start with a catchy headline that summarizes the main point. Include the date and location, followed by a strong opening paragraph that answers the who, what, when, where, and why. Use quotes from company representatives or satisfied customers to add credibility, and conclude with a call to action. Keep it concise and focused on newsworthy information.

Where should I distribute my news release?

You can distribute your news release through various channels, including online press release distribution services, social media platforms, your personal website, and local news outlets. Additionally, consider sending it directly to relevant bloggers and influencers in the cooking and home goods niche to maximize reach.

How often should I issue news releases for my Pampered Chef business?

The frequency of news releases depends on your business activities. It's advisable to issue a news release whenever you have significant news, such as a new product launch, a major event, or a noteworthy achievement. However, avoid over-saturating the market with too many releases, as this can lead to diminishing returns.

What are the benefits of issuing news releases for my direct sales business?

Issuing news releases can enhance visibility for your Pampered Chef business, attract new customers, and build credibility. They can also help establish you as an authority in the direct sales space, improve your search engine rankings, and provide content for your social media channels, ultimately driving more traffic and sales.

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