Every business needs a press kit. Press kits are a great way to introduce people to your services or products. Press kits are used to open doors to long term relationships with editors, journalists, investors, and others. It is also a well put together packed of informative information about your company and services.
There are various types of press kits. One of the most common ones is a one sheet used by most musicians. This helps musicians promote their music to record labels, radio stations, promoters, distributors. The second most common type is a full informational press kit compiled of various sheets of information in a 9x12 size folder. This type is commonly used for companies who have lots of valuable information to report about their company. A press kit can be a valuable tool in promoting your company and its products.
Press kits express to your onlookers who you are, what you do, and why does it matters to them anyway. In order to create an effective press kit one should include the following below:
• A cover letter. Press kits must have a personalized cover letter rather than a form letter to grab the attention of the reader and tell them why you are sending them your press kit. It is also recommended to include a handwritten note with the letter to give it a personal touch. The letter does not have to be long and drawn out. Most people are very busy so short, sweet, and straight to the point always works best. Handwritten note can say something like, “I look forward to speaking with you soon. Thanks for your time.”
• Company information. Not just any company information but the important details people want to know about like who is the key leaders, what is the company’s history, types of services you produce, did you receive any awards or praises and any promotional information currently running. You could include a fact sheet, brochures, and clippings to name a few.
• Product material. Only include the materials about the services and products you think that will interest the reader and provide basic understanding about your services/products.
• Press releases and publicity clips. Be sure to include copies of any media stories that have been done on your company and products. Photocopies are fine, but if there are photos you may want to consider color copies instead of black and white.
• Financial information. Basic financial statement is a good idea to include to show sales capacity and financial viability for investors and others who need to know.
• Contact information. Seems simple but don’t forget to include contact information to who handles what, website, phone numbers, fax numbers and of course good old email addresses.
Once you have compiled the necessary information, you’ll need to present in a manner that communicates professionalism and excellence. Consider producing your press kit in both an electronic and paper format. The electronic version can be posted on your website or sent as an e-mail attachment. The paper version can be collected in an attractive folder to be mailed or hand delivered.
Remember: Quality counts! By taking the time to proofread for typos and spelling errors you can make sure your press kit has the sizzle it needs to make a good impression.
