The New Press Release in Town

In Chapter 12 of “Share This”, the author Stuart Bruce talks about the social media press release. I feel the need to comment on this because time has evolved the traditional press release into something that social media yet again controls.

Before I read this chapter I did not even know social media press releases existed. My introduction to PR class never mentioned this “new” idea (“new” because the idea has been growing since its release by Shift Communications in 2006). I wanted to really explore this and make sure everyone knew about it. My thinking is if I do not know what it is I surely do not know how to write one.

Here are a few current widely accepted current elements of a social media press release the book mentions on page 105:

·         Headline- Write a catchy headline that will effectively use search engine optimism, and catch the public’s eye on social media platforms. 

·         Anchor Text Links- This is key words or phrases that will link to a web page with more information on the subject. I thought this was smart because instead of people asking for more information you have already provided a credible source embedded in the press release to which everyone has access by a click of a button.

·         Creative Commons License- This is an online copyright release which makes it clear who can use the information and how. Be sure to include this!

There are about 23 actual guidelines the book gives that are current to social media releases today. Before doing a social media release it wouldn’t hurt to look up a few current social media releases to see what is still accepted or what may have changed because we all know anything that has to do with the Web or social media is always changing.

            If you would like to see Shift Communication’s first ever social media press release template it can be seen on this link. In the article just click the on the link in the words "the first social media press release".

            Shift Communication’s updated template (version 2.0) is here. In the article click on the link in the words "what does the modern social media press release look like?"