When we think of putting out releases in the crypto sector, it’s easy to assume that press releases are the only options. But the more you delve into the topic, the more apparent it will be that there are different types of releases. Two of the most common types are press releases and news releases. On the surface, they might seem like the exact same thing, but in reality, they are not.
Getting the most benefit from your crypto journey means knowing when to put out a press release vs news release. But not to worry. In this article, we’re going to explain what each means, how to go about leveraging them, and how to get the most benefit.
What Is a News Release in Crypto?
Many people are not familiar with the concept of a news release, but the truth is that it is essentially a type of press release. A news release is a document that puts out factual reports on developments with regard to an organization or individual. As the name would suggest, the point of a news release is to pass along this information as accurately and effectively as possible. Unlike some other types of releases, its goal is not publicity or eliciting a certain response from the public but merely circulating the information in question. An example of a news release would be a company announcing that it has a new CEO or is relocating its headquarters.
What Is a Press Release in Crypto?
There are two key things to understand about press releases in crypto. First, a press release is the umbrella term for releases that inform the public about any topic. Think of it like this: a news release is a form of press release, but not every press release is a news release. A traditional press release, however, is a document published not only to inform the public about certain developments but also to elicit a specific response or perception, or to trigger action. For example, if you put out a press release about a new product line, the text might be framed to tout the product as superior to others on the market. In that sense, the press release is trying to create a positive reputation within the market and also drive sales.
What’s the Difference Between a Press Release and a News Release in Crypto
With all this considered, it’s important to understand the differences between a press release vs a news release in the crypto sector. As we’ve said, a press release is trying to elicit certain responses from the public or drive action. A news release, on the other hand, is simply trying to inform without necessarily driving action.
The classic example is announcing a product and trying to drive sales versus simply telling the public that you have a new CEO. In the case of the former, you are trying to make the public see you as a good company and/or make a purchase. In the case of the latter, you’re not necessarily expecting the public to think anything of it but to simply be aware. This is further emphasized by the fact that press releases often have a call-to-action, such as telling the reader to go to your website or visit your social media. A news release, on the other hand, does not tell the reader to take any action because there is no action to be taken.
When to Use a Press Release in Crypto
Now that you have more of an understanding of press release vs news release, you’ll need to know when to use one versus the other. A press release should be used when you are trying to drum up a certain response from the public. Ask yourself if you want your reader to take any action or if they simply need to be informed.
If you’re launching a new product or service, you want a press release to elicit specific responses. If you’re trying to drive sales, grow your social media, or increase your public perception, you need to put out your press release. Simply telling readers that you have launched a new product without a call-to-action or any text hyping up the product is not very effective, and so, those situations call for a press release.
When to Use a News Release in Crypto
There are also times when a news release is the most effective way to go. This includes announcements being made that don’t require any follow-up action. Changes in your business’s corporate structure that need to be announced for legal reasons can be put out as a news release. Similarly, you can simply communicate upcoming events and changes to your business structure using a news release. The golden rule, as we’ve said, is to ask yourself what you want the reader to take away. If simply being informed is enough, a news release will be adequate.
Common Mistakes Crypto Projects Make
While press releases and news releases are both common in the crypto industry, various projects trying to leverage them often make mistakes. Some of the most common include:
- Using the wrong type of release when making announcements
- Using the wrong format
- Publishing on the wrong platforms
- Creating limited visibility
How to Choose the Right Format (Decision Framework)
As we’ve said, using the wrong format for a press release or news release can stifle the results and make you come off as unprofessional. The good news is that choosing the right formats is pretty straightforward. Press releases and news releases typically follow the same structure with a few differences.
As we’ve noted in a previous blog post, a standard press release format should include a heading that summarizes the development in a single sentence and an introductory paragraph that touches on the 5Ws ( Who, when, where, what, and why), a body text, quotes if necessary, a summary paragraph, an about section, and media links.
The main difference between a press release versus news release is that the former will have a call-to-action towards the end, encouraging the user to visit a website, contact them, and much more. The language used within the body is also geared towards hyping the project and trying to elicit a certain reaction. In a news release, the information is presented in a more factual way, with less emphasis on the reader taking any action after the fact.
Best Practices for Crypto PR Success
As you navigate the world of press release versus news release, certain best practices can guide you towards the best results. While it might take a bit of practice to get your bearings, here are a few ways to go about it:
1. Combine Both Formats in Campaigns: Don’t make the mistake of thinking that a campaign has to have only press releases or only news releases. In a single campaign, multiple announcements may be needed, which might require issuing press and news releases. You might also choose to put out both types of releases for the same announcement. You can put out a release plainly stating that you have launched a new token, and also put out a press release talking about the anticipation around it.
2. Optimize Headlines for Keywords: Whether you are writing a news release or press release, make sure that your headlines include high-ranking and relevant keywords that can gain traction. Even though a news release is not used to necessarily drive engagement, it can get a lot of eyes on your business, so don’t neglect this.
3. Include Quotes From Founders: Even though a news release is less overtly promotional than a press release, nothing stops you from including quotes from founders and other relevant parties. Even when stating information, a quote from a relevant party can help convince the reader of the project’s value and lead to good results.
4. Use Data/Statistics (for news releases): When putting out a news release, you can bolster your credibility by adding statistics and other relevant data. These can be used to show how well your business is doing, the potential of your new project, or simply give more context around it. Anything that will make the release richer and more interesting to read should always be welcomed.
5. Distribute on High-Authority Crypto Sites: Whether you are putting out a press release or news release, you want to have as many eyes on it as possible. One of the best ways to do this is to have them published on high authority crypto sites. Luckily, the services like what we offer here at BTCWire give you access to the top crypto sites in the world to suit your purposes.
Conclusion
As you begin issuing press and news releases, certain actions will keep you on the right path. From experience, we know that the following is recommended:
1. Launch With a Strong Narrative:
When starting off your relationship with the public, you need to have a strong narrative around it. If you’re putting out press releases, you want to distinguish yourself from other businesses in the crypto space and allow the public to find you endearing. When putting out news releases, be careful of the ones you publish first, as this will set the scene for how the public will engage with you. Even as you are just informing them of various developments, be mindful of what you announce or what you keep under wraps.
2. Use Targeted Crypto PR Distribution
Not only should you put out the best press release and news releases possible, but you should also leverage crypto PR distribution services. By looking through our packages page on BTCWire, you can choose the best crypto site to publish on, regardless of your specific niche and budget.
3. Build Relationships With Crypto Journalists
As you put out press releases and news releases, you should see coverage from various journalists, and it’s important to build a relationship with them. As we’ve previously explained, this includes everything from offering quotes to exclusives to even invitations to in-person events. These relationships will serve you for years to come, so prioritize them.
4. Leverage Community Amplification
Community building is one of the biggest tools of the crypto industry, and you should certainly embrace this. Whether it is closed communities where you offer exclusives or more public ones, ensure that you incentivize your community to spread the word of your business and keep new people coming. This will keep your business afloat through industry high points as well as winters.