# Press Conference Definition: Purpose, Process, and Benefits

## What Is a Press Conference?

A press conference is an event organized to officially distribute information and answer questions from the media. Corporations, government bodies, and other organizations may use press conferences to address specific [public relations](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/p/public-relations-pr.asp) issues, such as a crisis or scandal.

Typically, corporate press conferences are led by the company's executives, press liaison, or communications officer. While they are sometimes routine, press conferences can play an important role in public engagement and raising brand awareness.

### Key Takeaways

*   A press conference is a strategic event used by companies and organizations to distribute information to the media and manage public relations, often allowing for interactive question-and-answer sessions.  
    
*   These events can be planned to address both positive and negative news, such as product launches or controversies, allowing companies to shape the narrative in their favor.  
    
*   Press conferences are often accompanied by a press release that outlines the details of the event, ensuring media and public awareness in advance.  
    
*   By hosting press conferences, companies can enhance their brand recognition and authority in the market, gaining valuable media exposure at a lower cost than traditional advertising.  
    
*   The organization and management of a press conference, including location choice and attendee invitations, are crucial elements that impact its success and visibility.

## How Press Conferences Work

Press conferences are held by companies or individuals and are attended by the media. During the event, one or more speakers may address those attending. Reporters may then be able to ask questions.

Before a press conference takes place, a company may issue a press release, outlining the nature of the event. At times, these are issued well in advance of the conference.

A company has the opportunity to present a news story in its most favorable light by inviting the press to special events. In other cases, lesser-known companies may want to increase their stature in the media by making it easier for news agencies to cover company events.

By gaining favorable media exposure, companies are able to gain greater [brand recognition](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/b/brand-recognition.asp) and authority in the market, usually at a much lower cost than would be required for a widespread [advertising campaign](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/m/marketing-strategy.asp).

Press conferences are also called news conferences. When there is no official statement or no questions allowed, the event is called a photo op.

## Reasons to Host a Press Conference

There are many reasons why companies choose to hold press conferences. They may be called to do any of the following:

*   Respond to [earnings](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/e/earnings.asp), other news, or controversies
*   Announce the departure or addition of a new executive
*   Unveil a new production facility
*   Announce the release of a new product or a [merger or acquisition](https://www.investopedia.com/terms/m/mergersandacquisitions.asp)

Of course, these are just some of the instances when a company may call a conference. In some cases, companies may time their press conferences before any news breaks. This can be beneficial to get ahead of any negative news to portray the company in an honest and truthful light as opposed to a company that was trying to hide the negative news.

## Key Considerations for Organizing a Press Conference

Before holding the press conference—or presser as they're known to journalists—there are a few key points a company will consider.

First, is the press release. In addition to announcing the conference, the release should be well crafted. It should be clear, concise, and to the point. But it should also address the issue at hand, whether that's a positive announcement like a product launch, or in response to negative news or controversy.

> **Important**
>
> The follow up after the press conference is just as important, so any queries that are answered after will carry the same weight.

The location of the presser is also really important. It should be able to accommodate the number of attendees and should have a link to what's being announced. A company may decide to hold the conference at the production facility or in a retail store if it's about a new product launch.

Another consideration is who to invite. Companies generally have a list of media who are apprised of the conference with a copy of the press release. The invitation, just like the release, should be well crafted in order to get the maximum level of people interested.