In public information work, precision matters. The facts we share, the way we say them, and even the labels we use on official materials help shape how our message is received. And one of the most common—and overlooked—examples of this is the difference between a press release and a news release.

While the terms are often used interchangeably, there’s an important distinction. More than just semantics, this difference speaks to how we approach public communication in a modern, multi-channel world.

Let’s break it down.

Press Release: A Legacy Term for a Narrow Audience

The term “press release” dates back to a time when traditional newsrooms were the primary, if not exclusive, gatekeepers of public information. A press release was something crafted specifically for members of the press—newspapers, television, and radio.

In that model, public information officers wrote directly to journalists, who then decided how to translate that material to the public.

Today, that model no longer holds.

We now communicate directly with the public via:

• Agency websites
• Email alerts
• Social media
• News conferences and livestreams
• Partner organizations and public distribution

Calling it a “press release” implies it’s only for media use—and that can limit your reach and relevance.

News Release: A Broader, More Inclusive Term

A news release recognizes that your message is intended for the entire public, not just reporters. It reflects the reality that:

• Your audience includes community members, elected officials, partner agencies, stakeholders, and yes—journalists.
• It may be distributed through multiple platforms, including your website, social media, and community briefings.
• It should be written with clarity and accessibility for the general public—not just for editors and producers.

This shift in terminology aligns with how we approach plain language, transparency, and community engagement.

Why It Matters for Public Information Officers

As PIOs, our job is to:

• Deliver facts quickly and accurately
• Reduce confusion and speculation
• Build public trust through consistency and professionalism

Using the correct terminology reinforces our credibility and intent.

Calling it a news release makes clear that:

• The information is for the public
• It’s official and vetted
• It’s not limited to insider access

Words matter—especially when you’re speaking on behalf of a government agency, school system, or public health department.

Final Thought: Speak Like the Professional You Are

It may seem like a small distinction—but in communications, small things signal bigger truths.

At PDR Strategies, we believe in helping public information officers and agency leaders fine-tune every message—from the header to the hashtags. Because in this work, how you say it is just as important as what you say.

📎 Need help elevating your communications toolkit, aligning your language with modern standards, or training your team on messaging strategy?
Let’s talk. Contact PDR Strategies today.