Some things will always stand the test of time no matter how much we advance as a society. People will always be looking to sell their “junk” and others will always be looking to buy that “junk.” Selling things through classified ads will always be around, but how we sell our things have changed. The internet is more read than the newspaper now, and people have turned to electronic classified ads as a way to sell their stuff online. You will be surprised, but many of the concepts for online ads or the same as for the newspaper.
The first thing to do is look for any websites for classified ads that might offer their services free of charge. There are some out there that do this and others will do this if you purchase an ad to print in their paper. While the basic service might be free, adding pictures, keyword searches or other services may cost you a nominal charge. If you have an item that you know will sell quickly, then take advantage of the free charge. If your item is not unique or may be harder to sell, then use everything you can to make your ad stand out.
You will want your online classified ad to stick out and be noticed as much as possible, just like it would be in a newspaper. People are visual learners and you need to appeal to that sense. Here is a list of ideas to make your ad stick out:
- Use a catch phrase or keyword that captures the reader’s interest.
- Use all capital letters and/or bold font for the catch phrase or keyword
- Use a border to box-in your ad
- Add a picture to your online ad
- Purchase a bigger space to use larger font
- Use color if possible
Be available for your potential buyer in the form of phone calls, texts or emails. One missed opportunity could cost you a sale. Be sure to give all of your contact information in the ad. Provide at least two phone numbers if you can. Provide an email link if possible.
Be as specific about your item description as possible. Vague language in an ad will have two consequences. First, your ad may be overlooked by the buyer. Second, you will open the door for numerous phone calls, texts and emails requesting more information about the item you’re selling.
Place your classified ads in as many online sites as possible. This will grow your audience rapidly. If someone doesn’t read it you can be sure that might be told by someone that did.
Create a website and add your URL to you classified ad. This allows potential buyers to see more information about the product that is not listed in the ad. This also creates a customer base that will visit your website again whether you have placed another ad or not.
As you can see, some things will never change, like selling things you no longer want to people who want them. The way we do it has now changed and a successful sale now depends on a quality online classified ad.