12 ChatGPT Prompts for Press Releases

Why Press Releases Still Matter in the AI Era

Press releases might seem old-fashioned in a world of viral tweets and AI-generated content. But here’s the truth: they still work. Even in 2024, journalists, investors, and customers rely on them to get the facts straight. A well-written press release can land your startup in TechCrunch, attract new investors, or even go viral on LinkedIn. The question isn’t if you should write one—it’s how to write one that actually gets noticed.

From Typewriters to AI: The Press Release Never Died

Press releases have been around since 1906, when Ivy Lee wrote the first one for a railroad accident. Back then, they were typed on paper and mailed to newspapers. Today, they’re sent in seconds via email or PR wires like PR Newswire. But one thing hasn’t changed: the need for clear, credible, and professional writing. The Associated Press (AP) style—the gold standard for journalism—still matters because it ensures consistency and trust. If your press release looks sloppy or reads like an ad, reporters will ignore it.

Why AI Is Changing the Game (For the Better)

Writing a press release takes time. You need a strong headline, a compelling lead, quotes from executives, and all the key details—without sounding like a sales pitch. Many startups and PR teams struggle with:

Tone: Too formal? Too casual? Finding the right balance is tricky.
Consistency: Keeping the same style across multiple releases.
Speed: Deadlines don’t wait, and last-minute edits can be stressful.

This is where AI tools like ChatGPT come in. They don’t replace human writers—they make them faster and more efficient. With the right prompts, AI can help draft a press release in minutes, suggest improvements, or even adapt the tone for different audiences. The key? Using AI as a smart assistant, not a replacement.

What You’ll Learn in This Guide

This article gives you 12 ready-to-use ChatGPT prompts for writing press releases that follow AP style. Whether you’re announcing a product launch, a funding round, or a new partnership, these prompts will help you:

Write a strong headline that grabs attention
Craft a clear, concise lead paragraph
Structure quotes and key details properly
Avoid common mistakes (like jargon or fluff)

Who is this for? Startups, PR professionals, marketers, and founders who want to save time without sacrificing quality. No more staring at a blank page—just plug in the prompt, tweak the output, and hit send.

Ready to write press releases that get results? Let’s dive in.

The Anatomy of a High-Impact Press Release (AP Style Breakdown)

A press release is like a first date with the media—you only get one chance to make a good impression. If it’s messy, confusing, or full of mistakes, journalists will swipe left and move on to the next story. But if it’s clear, professional, and follows the rules? That’s when you get the attention (and coverage) your news deserves.

The secret? AP style. The Associated Press (AP) stylebook is the bible for journalists, and if you want your press release to be taken seriously, you need to speak their language. Let’s break down the key parts of a high-impact press release—and how to get them right.

The Core Components of an AP-Style Press Release

Every press release has the same basic structure, like a recipe. Skip an ingredient, and the whole dish falls apart. Here’s what you must include:

Headline – The hook. Short, punchy, and packed with the most important news.
- Example: “TechStart Secures $10M in Series A Funding to Expand AI-Powered Customer Service”
- Bad example: “Company Announces Exciting New Development” (Too vague!)
Dateline – Where and when the news is happening.
- Example: SAN FRANCISCO, Jan. 15, 2024 – (Note: AP style uses Jan. not January)
Lead Paragraph – The “who, what, when, where, why” in 1-2 sentences.
- Example: “TechStart, a leader in AI-driven customer support, today announced it has raised $10 million in Series A funding led by Venture Capital Partners. The funds will accelerate product development and expand its team by 50% in 2024.”
Body – The details. Quotes, stats, and context that make the story compelling.
- Pro tip: Use active voice (e.g., “The CEO said” not “It was said by the CEO”).
Boilerplate – A short “about us” section at the end. Keep it consistent across all releases.
- Example: “TechStart is an AI-powered customer service platform that helps businesses automate support while maintaining a human touch. Founded in 2020, the company serves over 500 clients worldwide.”
Contact Info – Who journalists should call for more info.
- Example: Media Contact: Sarah Johnson PR Manager, TechStart [email protected] | (555) 123-4567

Why Structure Matters (And What Happens If You Mess It Up)

Journalists are busy. Like, really busy. They get hundreds of press releases every day, and if yours doesn’t follow the rules, it goes straight to the trash.

Here’s why structure is non-negotiable:

It’s familiar. Journalists know where to find key info fast.
It’s scannable. A well-structured release lets them grab quotes and stats in seconds.
It builds trust. If you can’t follow basic AP style, why should they trust your news?

Common mistakes to avoid: ❌ Passive voice – “A new product was launched by the company.” (Boring!) ✅ Active voice – “The company launched a new product.” (Better!)

❌ Jargon – “Our SaaS solution leverages blockchain for decentralized data integrity.” ✅ Plain English – “Our software uses secure technology to protect your data.”

❌ Overhyping – “This revolutionary, game-changing product will disrupt the industry!” ✅ Facts only – “The product reduces customer wait times by 40%, according to internal testing.”

**AP Style Rules You Must Follow (With Examples)**

AP style isn’t just about grammar—it’s about consistency. Here are the most important rules for press releases:

1. Dates and Times

Months: Abbreviate Jan., Feb., Aug., Sept., Oct., Nov., Dec. (Never abbreviate March, April, May, June, or July.)
- Example: Jan. 15, 2024 (not January 15th, 2024)
Times: Use figures with a.m. or p.m. (no colons for whole hours).
- Example: 9 a.m. (not 9:00 AM)

2. Numbers

Spell out one through nine. Use figures for 10 and above.
- Example: “The company hired five new engineers and 12 sales reps.”
Percentages: Always use the % symbol (AP updated this rule in 2019).
- Example: “Revenue grew 25% in Q4.”

3. Titles and Names

First reference: Full name + title.
- Example: “Jane Smith, CEO of TechStart, said…”
Second reference: Last name only.
- Example: “Smith added…“

4. Abbreviations

States: Use postal abbreviations (CA, NY, TX) in datelines, but spell out in body text.
- Example: SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – (Dateline)
- “The company is based in San Francisco, California.” (Body text)

How ChatGPT Can Help You Nail AP Style

Even if you know AP style, mistakes happen. That’s where ChatGPT comes in—it’s like having a proofreader in your pocket. Here’s how to use it:

1. Drafting with AP Style in Mind

Try this prompt: “Write a press release lead paragraph in AP style announcing [your news]. Include the who, what, when, where, and why. Keep it under 30 sentences and use active voice.”

2. Checking for AP Compliance

Ask ChatGPT: “Review this press release for AP style errors. Check dates, numbers, titles, and abbreviations. Flag any passive voice or jargon.”

3. Simplifying Complex Language

If your draft is full of buzzwords, use: “Rewrite this paragraph in plain English, avoiding jargon. Keep it concise and in AP style.”

Pro tip: Always double-check ChatGPT’s work with the AP Stylebook or tools like Grammarly (set to AP style).

Final Checklist Before You Hit Send

Before you send your press release, ask yourself: ✅ Is the headline clear and compelling? ✅ Does the lead answer the 5 W’s (who, what, when, where, why)? ✅ Are all dates, numbers, and titles in AP style? ✅ Is the language simple and jargon-free? ✅ Does it end with a boilerplate and contact info?

If you can answer “yes” to all of these, you’re ready to send a press release that journalists will actually read—and maybe even cover. Now go make some news!

12 ChatGPT Prompts for Writing Press Releases (With Examples)

Press releases are still one of the best ways to share big news about your company. But writing one that actually gets noticed? That’s the hard part. Journalists get hundreds of press releases every day—most of them boring, vague, or full of hype. How do you make yours stand out?

The good news is, you don’t have to be a PR expert to write a great press release. With the right prompts, ChatGPT can help you draft a professional, AP-style announcement in minutes. The key is giving the AI clear instructions—so it doesn’t just spit out generic fluff. Below, I’ll walk you through 12 powerful prompts, each with a real example, to help you craft press releases that get results.

1. Product Launch Press Release

A product launch press release should do more than just announce a new product—it should make people care. Start with the basics: what is it, who is it for, and why does it matter? Then, highlight key features, pricing (if relevant), and availability. Most importantly, include a quote from leadership that adds credibility and excitement.

Example Prompt: “Write an AP-style press release for [Product Name], a [brief description]. Include key features, launch date, and a quote from the CEO. Keep the tone professional but engaging, and avoid overused phrases like ‘game-changing’ or ‘revolutionary.’”

Why This Works:

Forces the AI to focus on facts, not hype.
Ensures the CEO’s quote adds real value (e.g., explaining the problem the product solves).
Follows AP style, which journalists prefer.

2. Funding Round Announcement

When announcing a funding round, investors want to see confidence—but not arrogance. Highlight the lead investor, the amount raised, and how the funds will be used. A quote from the founder should explain the vision, while an investor quote should validate the opportunity.

Example Prompt: “Draft a press release announcing a $X Series A funding round for [Company Name], led by [Investor]. Include the valuation (if public), use of funds, and quotes from both the founder and the lead investor. Keep the tone professional and forward-looking.”

Pro Tip:

If the valuation isn’t public, focus on the impact of the funding (e.g., “to expand into new markets”).
Avoid vague statements like “to fuel growth”—be specific.

3. Executive Hire or Leadership Change

When announcing a new hire, don’t just list their title—tell a story. Why is this person a great fit? What experience do they bring? How will they help the company grow? A strong press release makes the hire feel like a big deal, even if the person isn’t a household name.

Example Prompt: “Write a press release introducing [Name], the new [Title] at [Company]. Include their background, key achievements, and a quote from the CEO explaining why they were hired. Keep it concise but compelling.”

What to Avoid:

Generic bios (e.g., “has 20 years of experience”).
Overpromising (e.g., “will transform the industry”).

4. Partnership or Collaboration Announcement

Partnerships are only newsworthy if they create real value. Your press release should answer: Who is partnering? What will they do together? Why does this matter to customers? Include quotes from both CEOs to show alignment.

Example Prompt: “Create a press release announcing a partnership between [Company A] and [Company B] to [achieve X goal]. Include quotes from both CEOs and explain how this benefits customers. Keep the tone collaborative, not salesy.”

Real-World Example: When Spotify and Starbucks partnered, their press release didn’t just say, “We’re working together.” It explained how Starbucks employees would get free Spotify Premium, and how customers could influence in-store playlists. That’s how you make a partnership interesting.

5. Event or Webinar Press Release

Events need press releases too—but not just to announce them. The goal is to drive registrations. Highlight the speakers, agenda, and why attendees should care. Include a clear call-to-action (e.g., “Register now at [link]”).

Example Prompt: “Draft a press release for [Event Name], a [type of event] on [date]. Include key speakers, agenda highlights, and registration details. Make it sound exciting but not like an ad.”

Quick Checklist: ✅ Who’s speaking? (Names + credentials) ✅ What’s the agenda? (Topics + takeaways) ✅ Why should people attend? (Unique value) ✅ How do they register? (Clear CTA)

6. Crisis or Damage Control Press Release

No company wants to issue a crisis press release, but if you have to, transparency is key. Acknowledge the issue, explain what’s being done to fix it, and show empathy. Avoid legal jargon—this is about rebuilding trust, not covering your back.

Example Prompt: “Write a press release addressing [Issue] at [Company]. Acknowledge the problem, outline corrective actions, and include a quote from leadership. Keep the tone honest and solution-focused.”

What to Include:

A clear statement of what happened.
Steps being taken to resolve it.
A timeline (if possible).
A sincere apology (if appropriate).

7. Award or Recognition Announcement

Winning an award is great—but your press release shouldn’t sound like a brag. Focus on why the award matters. Is it industry recognition? Does it validate your product? Include a quote from the team that’s humble but proud.

Example Prompt: “Create a press release announcing [Company]’s win of [Award Name]. Include details about the award, why it’s meaningful, and a quote from the team. Keep it celebratory but not self-congratulatory.”

Example Quote: “We’re honored to receive this award, but it’s really a testament to our customers’ trust in us.”

8. Rebranding or Company Milestone

Rebranding isn’t just about a new logo—it’s about evolution. Your press release should explain the why behind the change. Is it a new vision? A merger? A shift in strategy? Include a quote from the founder to add a personal touch.

Example Prompt: “Draft a press release announcing [Company]’s rebrand, including the new name, logo, and vision. Explain the reason for the change and include a quote from the founder.”

Key Questions to Answer:

What’s changing? (Name, logo, messaging)
Why now? (Growth, new direction, etc.)
What does this mean for customers?

9. Data or Research Report Release

Data can be dry—but it doesn’t have to be. Your press release should highlight the most surprising findings and explain why they matter. Include 3-5 key stats, a quote from the lead researcher, and a link to the full report.

Example Prompt: “Write a press release summarizing key findings from [Report Name]. Highlight 3-5 surprising statistics and include a quote from the lead researcher. Make it engaging, not academic.”

Pro Tip:

Use comparisons to make stats relatable (e.g., “enough to fill 10 football stadiums”).
Avoid jargon—explain terms like “YoY growth” if needed.

10. Customer Success Story or Case Study

A customer success story isn’t just an ad—it’s social proof. Focus on the problem the customer faced, how your product helped, and the results. Include hard numbers (e.g., “reduced costs by 30%”) and a quote from the customer.

Example Prompt: “Create a press release featuring [Customer Name]’s success with [Product/Service]. Include metrics, a quote from the customer, and a call to action for other businesses to learn more.”

What to Avoid:

Making it sound like a sales pitch.
Using vague results (e.g., “improved efficiency”).

11. Industry Trend or Thought Leadership Piece

Positioning your company as a thought leader means sharing insights, not just opinions. Your press release should analyze a trend, back it up with data, and offer a unique perspective. Include a quote from your CEO and a call to action (e.g., “Contact us for media interviews”).

Example Prompt: “Draft a press release on [Industry Trend], with insights from [Company]’s CEO. Include data, predictions, and a call to action for media interviews. Keep it informative, not promotional.”

Example Angle: Instead of “AI is the future,” try “How AI is changing [specific industry]—and what businesses should do now.”

12. Merger or Acquisition Announcement

Mergers and acquisitions are big news—but they can also be confusing for customers. Your press release should explain the what, why, and what’s next. Include quotes from both CEOs to show unity and excitement.

Example Prompt: “Write a press release announcing [Company A]’s acquisition of [Company B]. Include details on the deal, future plans, and quotes from both CEOs. Keep the tone professional and optimistic.”

Key Details to Include:

The financial terms (if public).
How the acquisition benefits customers.
What changes (or doesn’t change) for existing users.

Final Tip: Always Edit for AP Style

ChatGPT can draft a press release in seconds, but it’s not perfect. Always check for:

Active voice (e.g., “We launched” vs. “A launch was made”).
No jargon (e.g., “utilize” → “use”).
Short sentences (AP style prefers clarity over complexity).
Proper formatting (dateline, boilerplate, ### for subheadings).

With these prompts, you can turn ChatGPT into your PR assistant—helping you write press releases that journalists actually want to read. Now, go make some news!

How to Customize ChatGPT Prompts for Your Press Release

ChatGPT can write a press release in seconds—but if you just ask it to “write a press release,” you’ll get something generic. Something that sounds like every other announcement. To make your press release stand out, you need to customize your prompts. Think of ChatGPT like a new intern: the more details you give, the better the work.

Here’s how to turn a basic AI draft into a polished, on-brand press release that journalists will actually read.

Start with Your Brand Voice (Not ChatGPT’s Default Tone)

Every company has a personality. A tech startup might sound bold and futuristic. A law firm? Professional and precise. A lifestyle brand? Friendly and inspiring. But if you don’t tell ChatGPT what your brand voice is, it will default to a safe, neutral tone—boring and forgettable.

How to fix it:

Describe your brand voice in the prompt. Example:

“Write a press release in a confident but approachable tone. Our brand voice is like a trusted friend who’s also an expert—no fluff, but not stiff either. Use short sentences and active language.”
Give examples. If you have past press releases or blog posts you love, share a link or paste a paragraph. Say:

“Here’s an example of our tone: [insert text]. Keep it similar to this.”

Why this works: ChatGPT learns from examples. The more you show it what you want, the closer it gets.

Adjust the Tone for Your Industry

A press release for a hospital funding round should sound different from one announcing a new video game. One needs to be serious and factual. The other can be exciting and playful.

Tone cheat sheet for different industries:

Industry	Tone to Use	Words to Avoid	Example Prompt Adjustment
Healthcare	Professional, empathetic	”Revolutionary,” “game-changer"	"Write this in a warm but professional tone. Focus on patient impact and trust. Avoid hype—stick to facts.”
Tech Startup	Bold, innovative	”Might,” “possibly"	"Make this sound exciting and forward-thinking. Use phrases like ‘next-gen’ and ‘cutting-edge,’ but back them up with data.”
Nonprofit	Inspiring, urgent	Corporate jargon	”Write this like a call to action. Make the reader feel the importance of this cause. Use emotional but not manipulative language.”
Retail/Fashion	Trendy, aspirational	Dry, technical terms	”Keep it stylish and engaging. Use phrases like ‘must-have’ and ‘on-trend,’ but don’t overdo it. Make the reader want to try the product.”

Pro tip: If you’re unsure, ask ChatGPT to rewrite a sentence in different tones and pick the one that fits best.

Feed ChatGPT Your Key Messages (Don’t Let It Guess)

ChatGPT doesn’t know your company’s unique selling points unless you tell it. If you don’t, it will make assumptions—and those assumptions might be wrong.

How to give ChatGPT the right context:

List your key messages in bullet points. Example:
*“Here are the 3 most important things to include:
- Our product is the first AI tool for small businesses to automate customer support.
- It reduces response time by 60% (backed by our 2023 customer data).
- We’re offering a free 30-day trial to new users.”*
Specify your target audience. Example:

“This press release is for tech journalists and small business owners. Focus on how this solves their pain points (slow customer service, high costs).”
Include keywords for SEO. Example:

“Use these keywords naturally in the text: ‘AI customer support,’ ‘small business automation,’ ‘24/7 chatbot.’”

Why this works: The more specific you are, the less ChatGPT has to “fill in the blanks.” This saves you time editing later.

Avoid Generic Outputs: The Power of Specificity

Generic prompts = generic press releases. Compare these two:

❌ Weak prompt: “Write a press release about our new product launch.”

✅ Strong prompt: *“Write a press release announcing the launch of ‘SmartReply AI,’ the first customer support tool designed specifically for small e-commerce stores. Here’s what to include:

The problem: Small businesses lose $62 billion yearly from poor customer service (source: Forbes).
The solution: SmartReply AI cuts response time by 60% and costs 70% less than hiring a team.
A quote from our CEO: ‘We built this because we were small business owners too—we know how hard it is to compete with big brands.’
A call to action: ‘Sign up for a free 30-day trial at [website].’ Write this in a friendly but professional tone, like a helpful mentor. Keep it under 400 words.”*

The difference? The second prompt gives ChatGPT a roadmap. It knows:

What to highlight
What tone to use
What data to include
What the reader should do next

Bonus tip: If ChatGPT’s first draft misses the mark, refine the prompt instead of editing the output. Example:

“This is good, but make the opening paragraph more punchy. Start with a surprising stat, like ‘68% of customers leave a brand because of slow responses—here’s how to fix that.’”

Edit Like a Pro: From AI Draft to AP Style Perfection

ChatGPT’s first draft is a starting point, not the final product. Here’s how to polish it:

Check for AP Style basics:
- Dates: “June 5, 2024” (not “5th June” or “June 5th”)
- Numbers: “10” (not “ten”) for most cases, but “one million” (not “1 million”) in some contexts.
- Titles: “CEO Jane Smith” (not “Chief Executive Officer Jane Smith”).
Cut the fluff. AI loves filler words like “in today’s fast-paced world” or “it is important to note that.” Delete them.
Use tools to improve readability:
- Hemingway Editor: Highlights complex sentences and passive voice.
- Yoast SEO (for WordPress): Checks keyword density and readability.
- Grammarly: Catches grammar mistakes and awkward phrasing.
Add a human touch. AI can’t capture emotion like a real person. Add:
- A short, punchy quote from your CEO or a customer.
- A specific example (e.g., “One customer, a bakery in Portland, cut response time from 2 hours to 5 minutes.”).
- A clear call to action (e.g., “Visit [website] to sign up for a free trial.”).

Final check: Read the press release out loud. If it sounds like something a human would say (not a robot), you’re good to go.

The Secret to Great AI Press Releases? You

ChatGPT is a tool—not a replacement. The best press releases come from your expertise + AI’s speed. Give it clear instructions, edit ruthlessly, and always add your unique perspective.

Now, take these tips and write a press release that gets noticed. Your turn!

Best Practices for Distributing Your Press Release

You wrote a great press release. Now what? If you just send it to a few journalists and hope for the best, you might get lucky—but probably not. A strong distribution strategy makes the difference between a press release that gets ignored and one that gets picked up by major media outlets.

The good news? You don’t need a big budget to get your news in front of the right people. What you do need is a smart plan. Let’s break down how to distribute your press release effectively—without wasting time or money.

Where Should You Send Your Press Release?

Not all distribution channels are equal. Some will give you wide reach but little engagement. Others might have a smaller audience but better results. Here’s how to choose:

Paid distribution services (PR Newswire, Business Wire, PRWeb) – These are fast and get your release in front of thousands of journalists. But they can be expensive (sometimes $300+ per release). Best for big announcements like funding rounds or major product launches.
Free press release sites (PRLog, Online PR News, Newswire Today) – These are free or cheap, but they don’t have the same credibility. Still, they can help with SEO if you include backlinks.
Direct outreach to journalists – This takes more work, but it’s the most effective way to get coverage. Find reporters who cover your industry (use tools like Muck Rack or Google News) and send them a short, personalized email.
Your own website & blog – Always post the press release on your site first. This gives journalists a place to link back to and helps with SEO.
Social media & email – Share it on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook. If you have an email list, send it to subscribers with a short note like, “Big news—we just launched [product]!”

Pro tip: If you’re on a tight budget, start with free distribution and direct outreach. If you have money to spend, use a paid service and follow up with journalists personally.

Paid vs. Free Press Release Services: Which Is Worth It?

Paid services like PR Newswire and Business Wire promise big results. They distribute your press release to thousands of news sites, including Yahoo Finance, MarketWatch, and local newspapers. But are they worth the cost?

When to use paid services: ✅ You have a major announcement (funding, acquisition, big product launch). ✅ You need guaranteed distribution to top-tier media. ✅ You want detailed analytics (who opened your release, which sites picked it up).

When to skip them: ❌ You’re a small business with a limited budget. ❌ Your news isn’t groundbreaking (e.g., a minor product update). ❌ You can get better results with direct outreach.

Free alternatives that still work:

PRLog – Simple and free, but limited reach.
Online PR News – Good for SEO, but not many journalists check it.
HARO (Help a Reporter Out) – Not a distribution service, but a way to connect with journalists looking for stories.

Bottom line: If you can afford it, paid services are worth it for big news. For everything else, free options + direct outreach will do the job.

How to Get More Eyes on Your Press Release (Without Paying)

Even the best press release won’t get noticed if no one sees it. Here’s how to boost visibility for free:

1. Optimize for SEO

Journalists and readers find press releases through Google. To rank higher:

Use keywords naturally in the headline and first paragraph (e.g., “AI customer support tool for small businesses”).
Include a backlink to your website (this helps SEO and gives journalists a source to cite).
Write a meta description (the short preview text in Google search results) that makes people want to click.

2. Add Multimedia

Press releases with images, videos, or infographics get 3x more views than text-only ones. Why? Because they’re more engaging. Try adding:

A product screenshot or demo video.
A headshot of your CEO (if announcing a leadership change).
An infographic with key stats (e.g., “How our tool saves businesses 10 hours per week”).

Don’t just post a link and hope for the best. Instead:

LinkedIn: Write a short post explaining why this news matters. Tag relevant journalists or industry leaders.
Twitter/X: Use hashtags like #StartupNews or #TechLaunch. Tag reporters who might be interested.
Facebook: Share it in industry groups (if allowed) or on your company page with a question like, “What do you think of our new feature?“

4. Send It to Your Email List

If you have subscribers, don’t assume they’ll see your social media posts. Send them a short email with:

A catchy subject line (“Big news: We just raised $5M!”).
A one-sentence summary of the announcement.
A link to the full press release.

How to Know If Your Press Release Worked

You sent it out. Now what? Tracking results helps you improve next time. Here’s what to measure:

Key Metrics to Watch

Media mentions – Did any news sites or blogs pick up your story? Use Google Alerts or Muck Rack to track this.
Backlinks – Did other websites link to your press release? Check with Ahrefs or Moz.
Social shares – How many people shared it on LinkedIn, Twitter, or Facebook? Most social platforms show this in analytics.
Website traffic – Did visits to your site spike after the release? Use Google Analytics to check.
Email opens & clicks – If you sent it to journalists, how many opened it? Tools like Mailchimp or HubSpot track this.

What’s a good result?

Small business: 5-10 media mentions, 50+ social shares, 100+ website visits.
Startup with funding: 20+ media mentions, 200+ social shares, 500+ website visits.
Big company: 50+ media mentions, 1,000+ social shares, 2,000+ website visits.

If you didn’t hit these numbers, don’t worry. Even a few media pickups can make a difference. The key is to learn from what worked (or didn’t) and improve next time.

Final Tip: Follow Up (But Don’t Be Annoying)

Journalists get hundreds of press releases every day. If you don’t hear back, it doesn’t mean they’re not interested—it might just mean they missed it.

How to follow up the right way:

Wait 2-3 days before sending a reminder.
Keep it short – “Hi [Name], just circling back on our press release about [topic]. Let me know if you’d like any additional details!”
Offer something extra – “We’d be happy to connect you with our CEO for a quick interview.”
Don’t spam – If they don’t reply after 2 follow-ups, move on.

Example of a good follow-up email:

Subject: Following up on [Company]’s [Announcement]

Hi [Name],

I hope you’re doing well! I wanted to follow up on the press release we sent last week about [brief summary].

We’ve seen a lot of interest in [specific detail], and I’d be happy to connect you with [CEO/team member] for a quick chat if you’re covering this.

Let me know if you’d like any additional information!

Best, [Your Name]

Now It’s Your Turn

You’ve got the tools—now go get your press release the attention it deserves. Start with one or two distribution channels, track your results, and adjust as you go. The more you practice, the better you’ll get at making sure your news doesn’t just get sent… it gets seen.

Common Press Release Mistakes (And How to Fix Them)

You wrote a press release. You sent it out. And… crickets. No replies, no coverage, not even a polite “thanks, but no thanks.” What went wrong?

Most press releases fail because they make the same few mistakes—over and over. Journalists get hundreds of these every day. If yours doesn’t stand out (or worse, annoys them), it goes straight to the trash. The good news? These mistakes are easy to fix. Let’s break them down.

Mistake #1: Sounding Like a Sales Pitch (And Why Journalists Hate It)

Imagine you’re a journalist. Your inbox is full of emails like this:

“Revolutionary new product changes the game! Buy now before it’s too late!”

Delete.

Journalists don’t care about your sales goals. They care about stories. If your press release reads like an ad, they’ll ignore it. The fix? Reframe your message to focus on newsworthiness.

How to do it:

Instead of: “Our amazing new app will transform your life!”
Try: “New app helps small businesses cut customer service costs by 40%—here’s how”

See the difference? One is a sales pitch. The other is a story with real impact.

Pro tip: Ask yourself: “Would I read this if I wasn’t paid to?” If the answer is no, rewrite it.

Mistake #2: Weak (or Missing) Quotes

Quotes are supposed to add value. Too often, they’re just filler. Example:

“We’re excited about this launch,” said CEO Jane Doe.

Boring. Journalists skip these.

What makes a strong quote?

Insight: Something only your company can say.
Data: A surprising stat or trend.
Emotion: A real reaction, not corporate jargon.

Weak quote: “This is a great day for our company.”

Strong quote: “When we surveyed 500 small businesses, 70% said they lose customers because of slow response times. This tool fixes that.”

Which one would you include in your story?

Mistake #3: Burying the Lead (And Why It Kills Your Chances)

Journalists don’t have time to dig for the story. If your most important info isn’t in the first paragraph, they’ll move on.

The fix? Use the inverted pyramid structure:

Most important info (who, what, when, where, why)
Supporting details (how, background)
Extra info (quotes, boilerplate)

Test your lead: Ask “So what?” If the answer isn’t obvious, rewrite it.

Bad lead: “Company X is proud to announce a new partnership.”

Good lead: “Company X partners with Y to offer free AI tools to 10,000 nonprofits—cutting costs by 50%.”

Which one makes you want to read more?

Mistake #4: Forgetting the Boilerplate

The boilerplate is the short “about us” section at the end. It seems small, but journalists use it to quickly understand your company.

What to include:

Who you are (industry, mission)
What you do (key products/services)
Why it matters (your unique value)
Website/social links (for easy reference)

Example: “Acme Inc. is a SaaS company helping small businesses automate customer support. Our AI tools reduce response times by 60%, saving companies an average of $10,000 per year. Learn more at acme.com.”

Pro tip: Update your boilerplate for different announcements. If you’re launching a new product, highlight that. If you’re announcing funding, mention your growth.

The Bottom Line

Press releases aren’t about you—they’re about the story you’re telling. Avoid these mistakes, and journalists will actually want to read (and share) yours.

Quick checklist before sending: ✅ Does it sound like news, not an ad? ✅ Are the quotes insightful, not generic? ✅ Is the most important info first? ✅ Is the boilerplate clear and updated?

Fix these, and your press release won’t just get sent—it’ll get noticed.

Case Studies: Press Releases That Got Media Attention

Press releases are not just about sharing news—they’re about making people care. A well-written press release can land your story in top media outlets, attract investors, or even go viral. But how do you write one that stands out? Let’s look at three real examples where companies and organizations used smart strategies to get attention.

Case Study 1: A Tech Startup’s Product Launch That Landed in TechCrunch

When [FinTech Startup X] launched its AI-powered budgeting app, it didn’t just send a boring announcement. Instead, it used a press release that answered one key question: “Why should people care?”

Here’s what made it work:

A strong headline: “New AI App Helps Millennials Save $500/Month—Without Giving Up Coffee”
Data-backed claims: The release included real user results (e.g., “80% of beta testers saved more in 30 days”).
A clear problem and solution: It explained the pain point (people struggling to save) and how the app fixed it.
Quotes from real users: Not just the CEO—actual customers shared their success stories.

The result? TechCrunch picked it up within 24 hours. The secret? The press release didn’t just announce a product—it told a story people wanted to share.

Case Study 2: A Nonprofit’s $1M Grant Announcement That Went Beyond the Numbers

When [Education Nonprofit Y] secured a $1 million grant, it could have just sent a standard press release with the amount and donor’s name. Instead, it made the story about the impact.

Key elements that worked:

Emotional storytelling: The release opened with a real student’s story—how the grant would help kids like her.
Clear mission: It explained why the grant mattered (e.g., “This funding will provide 1,000 children with free tutoring”).
Visuals: They included a short video of students thanking donors, which journalists could embed in their stories.

The lesson? People don’t care about money—they care about what the money does. By focusing on the human side, the nonprofit got coverage in local news and education blogs.

When [Fashion Brand Z] rebranded, it didn’t just send a press release—it made the rebrand an event. Here’s how:

Teased the change: They sent a mysterious email with a countdown before the official announcement.
Used social media: They posted behind-the-scenes content on Instagram, showing the design process.
Made it interactive: They asked followers to vote on their favorite new logo design.
Included influencers: They partnered with micro-influencers to share the news, making it feel more personal.

The result? The rebrand trended on Twitter for a day, and major fashion magazines covered it. The key? They didn’t just announce—they engaged their audience.

What These Case Studies Teach Us

These examples show that a great press release does more than share facts—it connects with people. Whether it’s a tech launch, a nonprofit grant, or a rebrand, the best press releases:

✅ Solve a problem (not just announce a product) ✅ Use real stories (not just corporate jargon) ✅ Make it shareable (with visuals, quotes, or social media hooks)

Next time you write a press release, ask yourself: “Would I read this if I weren’t the one sending it?” If the answer isn’t a strong “yes,” go back and make it better. Your audience—and the media—will thank you.

Conclusion: The Future of AI-Assisted Press Release Writing

You’ve now got 12 powerful ChatGPT prompts in your toolkit—each designed to make your press releases sharper, faster, and more engaging. But here’s the thing: these prompts aren’t just shortcuts. They’re starting points. The real magic happens when you mix them, tweak them, and make them your own.

When to Use Each Type of Press Release

Not every announcement needs the same approach. A product launch? Try the “Big News” headline or “Problem-Solution” structure to grab attention. A funding round? The “Data-Driven” prompt works best when you’ve got impressive numbers to share. And if you’re announcing a partnership? The “Storytelling” angle helps journalists see the bigger picture. The key is matching the prompt to the why behind your news.

For complex announcements—like a product launch with a funding round—combine prompts. Start with a strong headline (Prompt #1), then use the “Key Messages” prompt to organize your main points. Add a quote (Prompt #6) for credibility, and finish with a clear call to action (Prompt #10). AI can draft the pieces, but you put them together in a way that makes sense.

AI Is a Tool, Not a Replacement

Here’s the truth: ChatGPT won’t write a perfect press release on its own. It doesn’t know your brand voice, your audience’s quirks, or the tiny details that make your news unique. That’s where you come in. Think of AI like a first draft—it gets you 80% of the way there, but the last 20%? That’s all human.

Before hitting “send,” ask yourself:

Does this sound like us?
Would a journalist actually care about this?
Are the facts 100% accurate?
Is the tone right for the audience?

If something feels off, fix it. AI can’t replace your judgment.

Your Final Checklist Before Sending

Before you distribute your press release, run through this quick list: ✅ Headline: Is it clear, compelling, and under 10 words? ✅ First paragraph: Does it answer who, what, when, where, why in 2-3 sentences? ✅ Quotes: Do they sound natural, not like corporate jargon? ✅ Boilerplate: Is your company description up to date? ✅ SEO: Are your keywords in the headline and first paragraph? ✅ Proofread: No typos, no broken links, no awkward phrasing.

Keep Experimenting

The best PR pros don’t just follow formulas—they test, learn, and improve. Try two different headlines for the same announcement and see which gets more opens. Swap out a quote for a customer testimonial. Add a short video link. The more you play with these prompts, the better you’ll get at crafting press releases that actually get picked up.

And if you’re hungry for more? Dive into the AP Stylebook for writing rules, take a PR course on Coursera or LinkedIn Learning, or explore other AI tools like Jasper or Copy.ai for different angles. The future of press releases isn’t just AI—it’s AI + human creativity.

Now go write something that makes journalists stop scrolling. Your next big story starts with you.

** Why Press Releases Still Matter in the AI Era**