Getting featured in AP News is a badge of honour that can catapult your brand to new heights. With its global reach and reputation as one of the most trusted journalistic platforms, the AP News offers unparalleled exposure and credibility. Whether you’re a startup, a nonprofit, or an established business, securing a spot in AP News can transform your image, generate opportunities, and establish you as an authority in your industry.

But here’s the catch—it’s not easy to stand out in today’s crowded media landscape. With thousands of press releases distributed daily, how do you grab the attention of one of the world’s leading news organizations? This blog will guide you step-by-step on how to write and distribute a press release that stands a chance of making it to an AP News feature. From crafting the perfect story to picking the right distribution channels, we’ve got you covered.

Why AP News beneficial for Your Business

AP News is a powerhouse in journalism, and being featured there can be the ultimate credibility boost for your business or personal brand. Here’s why:

• Global Reach: AP News is syndicated to over 15,000 outlets worldwide, ensuring your story reaches a vast audience.
• Unmatched Credibility: The AP has a reputation for impartial and accurate reporting, lending weight and legitimacy to stories featured on its platform.
• Tangible Impact: An AP News feature can significantly increase visibility, attract investors or partners, and even improve customer trust.

For example, a case study revealed that a startup featured in AP News saw a 40% increase in website traffic and secured funding within eight weeks of its feature. This speaks volumes about its influence and potential impact.

Crafting an AP News Press Release

To stand out and grab editors’ attention, follow these tips for creating a press release that shines:

Write with Purpose

1. Strong Headline 

  Craft a headline that is concise, engaging, and clearly conveys your story. Focus on action words and unique angles. For example:

“Local Startup Achieves Net-Zero Milestone with Innovative Energy Tech” 

2. Compelling Lead Paragraph 

  The opening paragraph should summarize the who, what, when, where, and why. This should immediately capture the reader and entice them to continue reading.

3. Clear and Compelling Narrative 

  Balance factual reporting with a human-interest element. Stories that evoke emotion or solve real-world problems often perform best.

Focus on Newsworthiness

Stories that resonate with AP News editors often check these boxes:

• Relevance to current events or trends.
• Timeliness, such as product launches or new partnerships.
• Uniqueness, such as a groundbreaking innovation or a community support initiative.

For instance, if you’re launching a new app, emphasize how it’s solving a widespread problem better than competitors.

Stick to AP Style

Ensure your press release is polished and aligns with journalistic standards. AP News adheres to the AP Stylebook, which covers specific guidelines on grammar, punctuation, and formatting. Poorly formatted or unprofessional releases are often dismissed outright.

• Pro Tip: Use tools like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor for basic proofreading and consider hiring a professional copywriter with experience in AP Style.

Choosing the Right Press Release Distribution Channels

Not all platforms are created equal when it comes to press release distribution. If you’re targeting AP News, choosing the right channel is critical. Here’s what you need to know:

Reliable Distribution Services

Some platforms specialize in getting stories onto AP News and its associated outlets. Popular services include:

• Monday Newswire
• PRNewswire 
• Business Wire 
• GlobeNewswire

These premium services ensure that your press release is distributed to top-tier publications, including AP News, significantly increasing your chances of being featured.

Paid vs. Free Options

While free distribution platforms exist, premium services offer benefits like:

• Guaranteed placement on high-visibility platforms.
• Detailed analytics to track performance.
• Wider media reach across syndication partners.

If AP News is your goal, investing in a paid distribution service is often worth it.

Pro Tips to Make Your Press Release Stand Out

Going the extra mile can make all the difference in securing that coveted feature. Here’s how you can take your press release to the next level:

Tailor Your Pitch

Customize your press release to align with trending topics or industry movements. For instance, a tech company might craft a release that ties into broader conversations about AI ethics.

Use Multimedia Content

High-quality images, videos, and infographics can significantly enhance your press release. Visual elements not only make your story more compelling but also make it easier for journalists to repurpose the content for publication.

Engage with Journalists 

Building relationships with industry-specific reporters can give you an advantage. Follow up professionally after sending your press release, offering additional context or interviews if needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To give your press release the best shot at success, steer clear of these pitfalls:

• Overly Promotional Language 

  Avoid turning your release into an ad. Focus on newsworthy angles rather than making it sound like a sales pitch.

• Lack of Proofreading 

  Typos and grammatical errors can damage credibility and lead to rejection.

• Non-Newsworthy Stories 

  Ensure your story is actually relevant and interesting to a broader audience. If it lacks substance, AP News editors won’t bite.

• Ignoring Follow-Ups 

  Don’t just hit send and forget. Follow up politely to ensure your press release gets the attention it deserves.

Boost Your Chances of Being Featured in AP News

Getting featured in AP News isn’t easy, but it’s more achievable than you might think when you have the right strategy. It starts with crafting a strong, newsworthy press release, choosing the right distribution channels and going the extra mile to engage with journalists.

If you’re ready to take the first step, explore trusted press release distribution services or consult experts who specialize in crafting attention-grabbing press releases. Don’t just wait for your story to be noticed—take action and tell the world why it matters.