For the benefit of understanding the subtle difference between article formats, here are the clear definitions of a press release and an editorial.
Press releases are pro-active media messages designed to inform the public about specific events. They often contain a great deal of information about a product, service, individual, company or organization. They are typically used as public relations tools for notifying the media about what has or will transpire to gain mass exposure of their message using a third-parties distribution network. Press releases convey your message your way—”straight from the horse’s mouth”. Publicity is the most cost-effective marketing tool there is and it’s the only part of a marketing strategy that builds credibility.
An editorial is one writing style used to express an opinion or reaction to news, events, or issues of concern. Most editorials are used to influence readers to think or act the same way as the author, so they can be written to promote the benefits of a product, service or idea. You can build a library of archived editorials that can serve as an ongoing newsletter promoting a specific issue or idea.
