Me and You and Press Releases

Since press releases are not supposed to be about you or your business, but instead, about how your product can help other people, it is important to keep the “we,” “our,” and “my” to a minimum. For many of us, it’s not natural to speak in the third person, so here are a few tips to help you get out of yourself and write a correct press release.

Get Out Of Your Box
Many of us are stuck inside of our own box. For years we have been discussing the world in first and second person. It is about as natural to speak in the third person as it is to stand on one foot, touch your nose and recite the alphabet backwards.

It is important to write press release in the third person because doing so often gives you an objective point of view on your product. If you think about stepping outside your self and writing a press release, you have a good chance at learning how to write in the third person.

Write For Someone Else
If getting outside of yourself is just not going to happen, then imagine your product or service was not your own. Now, before you start to panic because you think someone stole something, hear me out. If you write your press release as if you are jotting it down for someone else, you will automatically write in the acceptable format.

Another suggestion is to write actual press releases for your competition. While you will not send these releases out, you will begin to get comfortable with third person dictation. Not to mention, you will gain understanding about their product and how yours can improve or help more customers.

Phantom of the Opera Has It Right- at least when it comes to press releases
For those who may not know, the Phantom of the Opera always referred to himself in the third person. While not necessarily appropriate for everyday language, there are times when third person speech, while awkward, can make waves in our business marketing. Make sure you write your press releases by stepping outside of your box or attempting to write for someone else, and if you need more help, get someone to write it for you.