Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Owned Media • Brand Journalism • Spokesperson Training

Press Release

Term from Public Relations industry explained for recruiters

A press release is a written announcement that organizations send to news media to share important news. It's like a formal announcement that follows a specific format to help journalists understand and potentially share the news with their audiences. PR professionals write these to announce things like new products, company changes, events, or achievements. Think of it as an official news story written from the company's perspective, designed to get media attention and public interest. Some people also call it a "news release," "media release," or "press statement."

Examples in Resumes

Wrote and distributed over 50 Press Releases resulting in coverage by major media outlets

Managed the creation and timing of Press Release campaigns for product launches

Secured national media coverage through strategic Press Releases and media outreach

Developed News Releases that gained attention from industry publications

Created compelling Media Releases for company announcements and events

Typical job title: "PR Professionals"

Also try searching for:

Public Relations Specialist PR Coordinator Communications Specialist Media Relations Manager PR Manager Corporate Communications Manager Public Relations Officer

Where to Find PR Professionals

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Online Communities

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle a crisis communication situation where negative press releases might be needed?

Expected Answer: Should explain their experience managing sensitive situations, including timing considerations, message crafting, stakeholder management, and maintaining company reputation while being transparent.

Q: How do you measure the success of a press release campaign?

Expected Answer: Should discuss various metrics like media pickups, audience reach, social media engagement, website traffic, and how these align with business goals. Should mention tools and methods for tracking coverage.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What elements make a press release newsworthy?

Expected Answer: Should explain the importance of timing, relevance, impact, human interest, and unique angles. Should demonstrate understanding of what journalists look for in stories.

Q: How do you maintain relationships with media contacts?

Expected Answer: Should discuss strategies for building and maintaining media relationships, including personalized pitching, respecting deadlines, providing valuable content, and following up appropriately.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the key components of a press release?

Expected Answer: Should mention headline, dateline, lead paragraph, quote, body content, boilerplate, and contact information. Should understand the inverted pyramid style of writing.

Q: How do you distribute a press release?

Expected Answer: Should explain various distribution methods including wire services, email, media databases, and social media. Should understand timing considerations for different media outlets.