YEC presents class on writing media releases

The Young Entrepreneurs Collective in collaboration with the Fallon Co-Working Space hosts the fifth class in an ongoing class series for entrepreneurs Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at the Old Post Office, 90 N. Maine St.

Long-time media professional Steve Ranson will teach class attendees how to write a media-ready and effective press release. As the editor of the Lahontan Valley News, Ranson knows first hand what media outlets need, both for print and online. He said the concept remains the same: Media outlets want to see good writing that follows the conventions of correct grammar and some familiarity with the Associated Press style rules.

“With the right skills, press releases can get journalists excited about an entrepreneur’s story,” Ranson said. “Hundreds of press releases are sent each day, many of which go unnoticed by media. Learning to write a good one gives business owners a leg up.”

Ranson said reporters or editors don’t like to waste much time editing media releases, but if a release needs extensive correcting, the 2012 co-Nevada Journalist of the Year said many times the article is either ignored or deleted. Even when newsrooms were larger, Ranson said editors bemoaned the poorly written submissions and often rejected them.

Class attendees will walk away from this lecture with a better understanding of the basic structure of a press release, what topics are newsworthy and how to use these skills to communicate effectively with both the media and the audience.

After covering press releases, the educational series culminates July 29 with insights from The Abbi Agency owner Abbi Whitaker as she teaches Networking 101. This session discusses how to take networking to the next level through strategy, thoughtful conversation and well-chosen events.

Upon completion of all six classes, participants receive a certificate of completion valued at $700. Business owners are also invited to use the amenities provided by the Co-Working Space for a complimentary six months. The Co-Working space provides computers, working desks, printers, an entrepreneurial library and networking opportunities. The classes and amenities provide business owners with the necessary resources to grow and improve.

To sign up for classes, contact CityofFallon@gmail.com. Learn more about the Fallon Co-Working Space or sign up by contacting Valerie Lightfoot at Val@ci.fallon.nv. or call 775-423-3040.