Differences Between a Media Release and a Press Release
Businesses and individuals can market their brands online through various means such as social media, blogs, and other channels. They can also use traditional marketing strategies such as print, television, and radio ads.
However, two of the most common ways businesses market themselves are through media releases and press releases. These two options can create leads, increase a website’s traffic, and improve search engine optimization.
In addition, they can be used to generate media interest, which can result in free publicity. This article will discuss the key differences between a media release and a press release.
What’s a press release?
A press release is a written statement that is typically used to announce something newsworthy. For example, a company might use a press release to announce a new product, award, event, or hire.
Press releases are also often used to publicize events or generate media coverage. In order to be effective, a press release must be well-written and attention-grabbing. It should also be timely, relevant, and newsworthy.
If you’re not sure whether something is newsworthy, ask yourself whether it would be of interest to the general public or whether it would generate media coverage.
If the answer is no, then it’s probably not worth writing a press release about.
You can use press releases to cover essential news such as
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- A new product or service
- An upcoming event
- A change in company leadership
- A new partnership
- Awards or recognition
What’s a Media Advisory?
A media advisory is a one-page summary issued to announce an event or provide information for reporters. Unlike a traditional press release, which is meant to be distributed to the media, a media advisory is typically sent only to reporters and editors who are likely to be interested in the event.
Media advisories often take the form of calendar listings, providing reporters with the date, time, and location of the event, as well as a brief description.
While they are not intended for general distribution, media advisories can be a valuable tool for generating interest and coverage from the media.
Media advisory covers important events such as
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- Conferences
- Press conferences
- Product launches
- Media tours
- Grand openings
- Live demonstrations
Media Advisory Must-Haves
A media advisory must have the following:
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- The who: Include the names and titles of the main participants.
- The what: Clearly state the purpose of the event.
- The when: Provide the event’s date, time, and location.
- The where: Give directions to the event location, if necessary.
- The why: Explain why the event is newsworthy or interesting to reporters.
As with the case of a press release, you need to discuss the 5Ws when writing a media advisory.
5 Key Differences Between a Press Release and a Media Release
Now that we’ve gone over the basics of each, let’s take a look at the key differences between a press release and a media release:
1. Target audience – A press release is meant for distribution to the general public, while a media advisory is meant for reporters and editors only.
2. Purpose – The purpose of a press release is to generate media coverage, while the purpose of a media advisory is to provide information about an event.
3. Length – A press release is typically between 400 to 500 words, while a media advisory has a word length of 100 to 150.
4. Timing – A press release can be sent out at any time, while a media advisory should be sent twice – the first about 5 to 7 days before an event and the second closer to the date of the event.
5. Content – A press release should be newsworthy and attention-grabbing, while a media advisory should provide information about an event.
Final Thoughts
If you have an event in the future and want to generate media coverage, then a media advisory is the way to go. On the other hand, if you have news that you think would be of interest to the general public, then a press release is the better option.
Both press releases and media advisories can be useful tools for getting the word out about your company or event. Just make sure to know the differences between a media release and a press release, and use the right one for your needs.
Featured Image- Megapixl @ Kiosea39
