Digital PR
Boilerplate
A boilerplate is the standardized "About [Company]" paragraph at the end of a press release that provides journalists with factual background information about the issuing organization.
Boilerplate text is a fixture of standard press release formatting. It appears after the body copy, typically preceded by the phrase "About [Company Name]." Its purpose is to give journalists unfamiliar with the brand a quick, factual reference they can use when writing their coverage.
What a Good Boilerplate Includes
- Company name and founding year
- Core business description — what the company does, in plain language
- Key products, services, or platforms
- Industries or markets served
- Notable clients, partnerships, or milestones (optional)
- Headquarters location
- Website URL
Common Boilerplate Mistakes
- Writing in promotional language ("industry-leading," "pioneering," "best-in-class") rather than factual description
- Including too much detail — a boilerplate should be 3–5 sentences maximum
- Failing to update the boilerplate as the business evolves
- Using the boilerplate space for SEO keyword stuffing
Boilerplate vs. Company Description in a Pitch
A boilerplate is a static reference block — written for journalists, not audiences. A company description in a pitch email or media kit is more dynamic, tailored to the specific journalist and story angle being pursued. Both serve different functions in a complete media relations strategy.