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For a successful business, you need a viable business idea, the skills to make it work and the funding. Discover whether your idea has what it takes.

Forming your business correctly is essential to ensure you are protected and you comply with the rules. Learn how to set up your business.

Advice on protecting your wellbeing, self-confidence and mental health from the pressures of starting and running a business.

Learn why business planning is an essential exercise if your business is to start and grow successfully, attract funding or target new markets.

It is likely you will need funding to start your business unless you have your own money. Discover some of the main sources of start up funding.

Businesses and individuals must account for and pay various taxes. Understand your tax obligations and how to file, account and pay any taxes you owe.

Businesses are required to comply with a wide range of business laws. We introduce the main rules and regulations you must comply with.

Marketing matters. It drives sales and helps promote your brand and products. Discover how to market your business and reach your target customers.

Some businesses need a high street location whilst others can be run from home. Understand the key factors from cost to location, size to security.

Your employees can your biggest asset. They can also be your biggest challenge. We explain how to recruitment and manage staff successfully.

It is likely your business could not function without some form of IT. Learn how to specify, buy, maintain and secure your business IT.

Few businesses manage the leap from start up to high-growth business. Learn what it takes to scale up and take your business to the next level.

How to write a press release - checklist

Use this checklist to help you write an effective press release, including how to structure it, what you need to include and what format to use.

  • Decide which publication your target audience reads.
  • Focus on creating a news story which will suit the publication and audience you are targeting.
  • Create an interesting headline which will encourage your audience to read on.
  • Include all the key points of the story in a brief opening paragraph.
  • Continue with additional paragraphs providing more information, in order of importance.
  • Keep the piece short, typically 300 words at most, using short sentences and paragraphs of 60 words at most.
  • Include your contact details in case further information is needed.
  • If necessary, add more detailed background information in a separate ‘note to editors’.
  • Write in the style of the publication, avoiding inappropriate jargon or overly technical language.
  • Consider including quotes to add colour to the article.
  • Find out who you should send your release to, what the deadline for copy is and in which format they prefer to receive releases (eg as an attachment to an email or simply as an email).
  • Craft an attention-grabbing subject line to encourage the journalist or editor to notice and open the email.
  • Write ‘PRESS RELEASE’ across the top of the page and use a letterhead template if you have one.
  • If possible, include an interesting and relevant picture; check the publication’s requirements for print and what format you should use when sending it by email.
  • Check your spelling and any factual information.
  • Review whether the piece is interesting, in the right style, and could be cut at the end of any paragraph and published without further editing.

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