What is a social media news release?
A social media news release has “expanded the audience beyond just the traditional media outlet.” (pg. 137 in Public Relations Writing and Media Techniques (6th Ed.) )
Social media news releases include things to help you understand more about the product, event, or organization. SMNRs include videos, graphics, and links. They are a much more interactive version of the traditional news release.
My favorite thing about SMNR are the videos. In my SMNR final project, I wasn’t able to use one. MY organization didn’t have an updated video. But, I have been using a lot of videos in my PR Connection category in my blog and I really feel like they are helpful. I added a commercial to my blog and then discussed it. Now, my readers will know exactly what I am talking about when they read my blog. Thank you YouTube.
When should a PR practitioner use an SMNR?
An SMNR should be used when there is any more information that cannot be included into the traditional news release.
I feel like a PR practitioner should use an SMNR rather than a traditional news release any time possible. My fellow classmate, Lauryn Williams, feels the same way. In her blog, I heard it from that PR Girl, she says, “I believe that while sending and distributing SMNRs online via blog or wire service is important to allow the customer to directly interact with your company, traditional press releases should still be used. I say use both as frequently as possible. Write the traditional press releases with journalists and gatekeepers in mind, and write SMNRs with your company and opinion in mind while avoiding hype. Hype will be recognized and cause customers to distrust what you say.”
Here are some blogs about SMNRs:
News Release for the Digital Age
Here are some websites that help you with your SMNR:
Good luck with your first SMNR!
