Have you ever found yourself confused between Press Releases and a Press Note? Then, let’s clear up the confusion. Assume a Press release is the full course meal and a Press note is a quick bite. Now, let’s break it down in the simplest way.
These two PR tools may sound similar but have some differences. Businesses use both of these PR tools in communicating news to the media.
But what is the difference between these two PR tools? What could be the purpose of each tool? When should you use them? In this blog, you will get answers to these queries.
Let’s break it down in the simplest way possible.
What is a Press Release?
A press release is known as the official statement that is issued by organizations or businesses to the media to announce important updates or news. It is made in a formal tone and a structured format. Businesses mainly use these to declare product launches, events, achievements, or other updates.
For instance: An organisation or business declares the launch of a new product with the help of media.
Press releases
Features
Structure: A standard format contains a headline, subheadline, body content, dates, and contact information.
Headline: Informative and catchy headline
Dateline: The dateline is used in the first line of the first paragraph, which ensures that the content conveys the updated information to the journalists.
Lead Paragraph: Introductory paragraph that includes the main details of the announcement.
Body: More detailing by providing background information, statistics, quotes, and supportive data.
Length of the content: The content must be within 600-1000 words
Contact Information: Clear contact information for journalists.
What is a Press Note?
A Press Note is a shorter and smarter version of a press release. It is issued to the media for giving the highlights of an event, modifications in the event, and for giving rapid updates. It does not require many details since it is only interested in giving the important points in a concise manner.
Press note
Features
- Length: It is short and typically written between 200-400 words.
- Structure: It is written with an emphasis on the primary information. It does not possess any strict structure.
- Headlines: Brief and descriptive headlines.
- Time-sensitive: It is used for quick updates.
- Distribution: It is circulated mainly to a limited number of chosen people.
- Background: No particular background of the company or the event is necessary.
For instance, a press note was issued to inform the media of changes in events.
Key Differences Between Press Releases and Press Notes
Factors | Press Release | Press Note |
Length of the Content | The length of a press release document is 2 to 3 pages, approximately. | It contains minimal information, which is written in 1-2 pages only. |
Content Style and Tone | Written in a formal tone | Written in an informal and conversational tone. |
Structure | A headline, subheading, lead paragraph, body content, quotes, and boilerplate about the company. | A brief heading, a brief paragraph of salient facts, and contact details alone. |
Body of the Content | It includes detailed background information on the news or events. | It includes short information such as location, date, time, and contact information. |
Purpose | It is a formal document issued by an organization to the media. It is mainly used for major announcements and explanations. It covers every detail of the events or news and also includes the background story (if any). Moreover, if needed, statistical data and quotes are also included in press notes. | It is a brief document that is written in an informal tone for quick announcements. Organizations use press notes to announce or declare any changes in information. Press notes are only used for short information, reminders, or quick updates without any detailing. |
Timing | Typically used by organizations for product launches, planned announcements, and company updates. | It is used for immediate announcements, such as changes in events, emergency updates, and timely announcements. |
Audience | Distributed to a wide range of audiences, which includes media outlets, customers, investors, and the public. | Distributed to a selected group of audience, which includes local media journalists or stakeholders. |
Distribution Channels | It is distributed through social media, email, or other internal channels. | It is typically distributed through Business Wire or PR Newswire and social media networks. |
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) | You can produce SEO-friendly content in order to improve the online visibility of your business and drive engagement. | It is not required to be optimized for search engines. |
Measurement | It is tracked mostly to understand their impact or effectiveness. While measuring a press release, you must focus on evaluating its effectiveness on media coverage. | Mostly, Press notes are not tracked or measured. But, if you want to track it, you must focus on understanding its effectiveness on stakeholder communication. |
Impact | Helps to establish a company’s reputation by offering complete information and a structured message. | Employed predominantly as a short notification, having a smaller impact on branding campaigns. |
When to Choose a Press Release vs. a Press Note
Press Release
- Product Launch
- Making major announcements for formal events
- For detailed information about company awards or achievements
- Invitation for media coverage
- Reaching a broader audience, which includes national or international media
- To improve website SEO.
- Detailed information using statistics and other findings.
Press Note
- Rapid communication
- Limited Distribution
- A brief update on events or schedules
- Internal Announcements
- Last-minute anuoncements
- Sharing urgent information
Conclusion
It’s clear that these two PR roles are not similar; they have different purposes and distribution channels in the world of PR. If you want to launch a new product or celebrate your success, a Press Release is the best option. But if you want to convey urgent changes in events or make last-minute changes, using a Press Note will be the best option. Before choosing the PR tool, you must decide your purpose for sharing the message and how much detail you want to share. Choosing the right PR tool enhances communication and media outreach. Still confused? Contact Us to guide you in choosing the right PR tool.
