40 Newsworthy Reasons to Write a Press Release

The press release is a powerful tool. In fact, 72% of journalists say the press release is one of the most useful types of content a PR pro can deliver. Writing an effective press release can be the key to building your brand’s reputation, earning media coverage, and growing your online presence. But first, you need a news angle.  

So – how do you keep your content calendar full of compelling, attention-grabbing content during an uncertain or tumultuous news cycle?  

It is likely that your organization is full of great stories waiting to be told. A press release must reveal something new or “newsworthy” to capture the attention of both the media and your audience. A newsworthy piece of content is timely, relevant, impactful; it should overall reveal something and be worth reading or writing about.  

Not sure where to start? Take a look at these 40 ideas—  the possibilities that exist within your own organization may surprise you:   

1. Opening a new business 
2. Relocating or opening a new office  
3. Announcing company expansion 
4. Launching a new product 
5. Announcing a product update or new product feature 
6. Rebranding or updating your company name  
7. Announcing contest or competition  
8. Announcing contest results 
9. Celebrating a company milestone or anniversary  
10. Launching a new website 
11. Supporting a non-profit or cause 
12. Volunteering  
13. Receiving a donation 
14. Participating in a national or local event 
15. Launching a new campaign  
16. Results from a survey or study 
17. Changing a product name 
18. Receiving an award  
19. Announcing financial earnings results or forecasts 
20. Announcing a conference call 
21. Sharing monthly sales reports 
22. Releasing a thought leadership piece from an industry expert 
23. Publishing tips or educational information   
24. Announcing an acquisition or merger 
25. Hosting a webinar 
26. Re-purposing a blog post 
27. Promoting an upcoming event  
28. Announcing an accomplishment  
29. Receiving a certification 
30. Introducing a new hire 
31. Announcing a retirement  
32. Announcing an internal promotion 
33. Announcing a new partnership or collaboration 
34. Restructuring your business 
35. Announcing something tied to a major holiday 
36. Announcing something tied to a local or national story or event 
37. Announcing a new service  
38. Issuing a letter to shareholders  
39. Announcing a new investor  
40. Offering a free training or resource 

Remember, a press release is not an ad and should not focus on low prices (50% Off! Buy Now!) or use direct appeal to consumers (“you” language). A press release should always lead with a news angle and appeal to the interest of both media and key audiences. Almost anything can be turned into a news story; you just have to find that hook.