Writing a Press Release: How to Write Quotes

Ideally, you will have two types of quotes in your press release. A quote from yourself is mandatory. To give your release extra impact, get a quote from a third-party.

Quoting yourself may seem unnatural to you at first, but it's what every reporter expects. Your quote should be about the information in the press release, not about how great you are. As I always say, the key to getting publicity is to build your story around information, not around yourself.

A good quote: "This tip is the single best advice for homeowners," said local attorney Nicole Jones.

A bad quote: "I am the best lawyer in town," Ms. Jones said.

If you are having trouble coming up with a quote, try interviewing yourself. I often use this technique when I need to come up with an appropriate quote. Think, "What would a reporter ask me?" Probably something about why you are doing what you are doing, what the significance of it is, or how it will change the lives of your readers.

It's often helpful to quote (with consent) clients, customers, colleagues, other experts in your area who complement your story. It shows the reporter there's more to the story than some hot air blowing their way. And it makes it easier for them to assemble a complete story.

Ned Steele works with people in professional services who want to build their practice and accelerate their growth. The president of Ned Steele's MediaImpact, he is the author of 102 Publicity Tips To Grow a Business or Practice. To learn more visit http://www.MediaImpact.biz or call 212-243-8383.

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