How to Write an Effective Classified Ad

Whether you're a business that needs constant visibility at a low price or you simply have a few items in your attic or garage you want to sell, using a newspaper's classified ad section is an inexpensive way to reach thousands of people.

When preparing a classified ad for any newspaper, follow these tips to help make your ad successful:

Give your readers as much information as you can. Include all the relevant features about the item such as size, color and the condition it's in. If the item is made by a well-known company, specify the brand name.

More people will usually respond to an ad where the item's asking price is given. This will also keep you from getting unnecessary calls from people who feel the item is not in their price range or is more than they are willing to pay.

Structure your ad using complete sentences, and don't use abbreviations. Some newspapers charge by the "line," and space may be a consideration in these cases. However, many papers charge by the word, not how much space the text takes up, so spell words out completely to make the ad clear and more readable.

Don't forget to proofread your text before submitting it. Have another person read it to possibly catch a mistake you've missed.

When readers find an item they are interest in, they will need to contact you. In addition to listing your phone number, specify the best times to reach you. Some people may hang up rather than leave a message on an answer machine, and may not call back a second time. If they can talk directly to you the first time they call, you'll have a better chance of connecting with them. A lot of people prefer communicating by email, so place an email address in your ad, too.

Classified ads are placed under headings. Some items may fall under more than one category, but use a heading that you believe would best capture the attention of your target reader. For example, rather than listing a drum set under "For Sale," place it under "Musical Instruments". One trick is to place an ad under more than one heading, to attract as many different "eyes" as possible.

When planning a yard sale, post your announcement in a classified ad. Many readers look for bargains, and often scan classified ads looking for sales to attend. List a few of the type of items you will have at your yard sale. Tools are a particularly strong draw at yard sales.

If your classified ad is for a business, give your business's website address to direct people where they can go for more comprehensive information.