How to Create a Want Ad

Whether you want to find an item, a prospective employee or a new roommate, there are a few key elements common to any "Wanted" ad.

Instructions

1. Imagine you're the person who's just stumbled upon the ad. Consider how you found the ad and ask yourself whether the ad makes you feel compelled to respond. The ad should include a few brief benefits to the person that answers it, whether it's a signing bonus for a job or a reward for the return of your cat.

2. Decide where the ad should appear. Whether it's a sign in a shop window, the newspaper classifieds or a poster plastered on a bulletin board, make sure the venue or forum for your ad will reach your target audience and is also still within your budget range.

3. List the qualities or qualifications you're looking for in order from most to least important. Bullet-form is a great way to do this in a manner that makes your priorities clear and succinct.

4. Follow the general wanted ad order. This usually begins with the title: Wanted: (insert what you want), followed by brief details on what you want the item/person for and a point-form list that specifies exactly what you're looking for. Also, include comprehensive contact information at the bottom of the ad and include the best time to contact you.

5. Proofread your ad for spelling, grammar and factual errors. It's important to proofread the ad yourself and not rely solely on your word processor. Even if your computer picks up spelling errors, it can't tell you if one of the digits in your phone number is wrong.