A news feature is a story that goes beyond the typical “inverted pyramid” structure of breaking news or investigative pieces. It digs deeper into the how and why to provide more analysis, usually focusing on one aspect of the subject matter. These articles can be an effective tool in achieving your PR goals when you’re looking to get more information out to the public.
Unlike breaking news, which is usually time-sensitive, a news feature often has a long shelf life. Ideally, it will remain relevant months or even years after it’s published.
When it comes to a news feature, you’re aiming to entertain while providing the audience with a well-reported piece of information. The tone can be light, serious or anything in between. However, the most important thing is that the story has a clear purpose and delivers its message in an engaging way.
The format of a news feature can vary from an in-depth profile of an individual or company, to a human interest story or exploration of cultural phenomena. However, they all share certain characteristics such as a narrative approach, a nut graph of key points and the use of storytelling devices.
If you’re writing a profile feature, make sure to thoroughly research and interview your subject. You want to provide your readers with all of the key facts they need to understand why your subject is interesting or relevant. If your source is unable or unwilling to talk, politely ask for referrals or try again at a later date.
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