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Target Your Message

When writing a press release or newsletter article, you need to take into consideration your target audience. Write to the level of your reader.

If your targeted audience is a group of executives, you are better off providing a bulleted list of important points. These people suffer from information overload, so the less you say, the better. Likewise, if your targeted audience has an average education level of eighth grade (you’d be surprised how many people cannot read above an eighth grade level), then you need to use simple language and present it in a simple way.

Beware of using too much industry lingo. If you use a lot of acronyms, many readers will get lost. They won’t know what you’re talking about. Be sure to spell out the acronym in the first reference, and beware of using it too many times.

Put yourself inside the head of your reader before you begin to write. Then think of yourself as speaking directly to them in a way that they will understand and remember what you have to say.

That’s one of the secrets of effective communications in news releases and newsletters. Actually, it’s a good rule of thumb for any kind of communications, whether you’re talking to your employer, your employee, or your own child.

Use these tips to maximize your results, and achieve success. Plan for these releases early, and get them out, so you can have more time to spend with your family!

...more of Nancy's Tips