Press release writers are always in demand. During tough financial times companies are more likely to hire freelancers than full time employees, so freelance press release writers can find themselves even more in demand. If you have strong, creative, clear writing skills and enjoy playing with words until they say exactly what you want them to, then it may be a good idea to start a press release writing business.

The Concept

A press release is a document that announces something such as a new business venture, an award a person or company is receiving, or a special event that is coming up. The document is sent to various press outlets and the press is invited to reprint the document, report on it, or contact the organization releasing the press release.

Press releases almost always follow a certain format and a press release writer is someone who understands how to write a release and also how to distribute the release to the right press outlets. Pres release writing is a specialty area of freelance writing, and a talented and established press release writer can earn a good rate for each release written.

Startup Costs

The startup costs to start a press release writing business are very small if you already own a computer with fast Internet access. Since most of your business will be handled through e-mails and electronic filing of the press releases, a reliable computer and connection are imperative for this business.

Another piece of office equipment that would be very beneficial to have when you start your business is a fax machine so clients can fax you information and you have easy access to a fax machine when you need to send documents. A combination printer/scanner/fax is a good investment and reliable ones can be bought for under $100.

Business cards and flyers are also a good idea to have when you start your business. Business cards can be bought for as little as $10, and flyers don't need to run more than $5 for your initial stack.

The low costs associated with starting a press release business make it ideal for someone without a lot of startup capital.

How to Market It

The marketing when you start a press release business is the same as other freelance writing businesses. Letting friends and family know you've begun a business is always a good place to start.

Joining the local business association is helpful for local contacts. Many businesses in your community can benefit from a well-written press release and local business like to hire local people when they need freelancers.

Since press release writing can be done completely virtually, you don't need to stick to local clients. A personal website and social networking sites will be invaluable to your marketing. Creating a basic website with your contact information and samples of your work will allow people to find you. Social networking sites such as Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook will allow you to get the news of your services out to others. And, a well-written press release letting others know about your writing service couldn't hurt either.