How to Write a Successful Classified Ad for Craigslist and newspapers

With a difficult economy, many people are deciding to sell personal items to supplement their income and make ends meet. One of the best ways to ensure you get the most money for your items is by writing good classified ads for your local paper and craigslist.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pen, paper
• Phone
• Computer with an internet connection

1. First, identify the item or items you want to sell. I recommend writing separate ads for each item and not lumping several things together. The exception to this would be items that are used in conjunction with one another. For example, it's a good idea to advertise an electric guitar and amplifier together. Potential guitar buyers are likely also in the market for an amplifier.

2. Next, identify the best features and benefits of the item you are selling. A feature is what it is, a benefit is what it does. Features are much more powerful when the associated benefit is also given. For example, satellite radio is a feature a car might have, the benefit is being able to listen to your favorite genre of music commercial-free and never losing the signal no matter where you drive. Select your item's best 2 features/benefits for your ad. You can't list everything or your ad will lose its impact.

3. Create the two most important factors for a good ad -- mystery and urgency. The easiest way to create mystery, is to leave out a key piece of information. I recommend the price. Instead of mentioning a price, use words like "price reduced for quick sale" or "motivated seller." Create urgency by using words like "call today between 5 pm and 8 pm" or "only one available." The key is to get people calling and responding to your ad. If you give too much information in the advertisement people have fewer reasons to call.

4. Finally, if advertising on craigslist, include multiple photos of your item from various angles. If your local paper will allow a small photo in a classified ad and your budget allows it, place a small photo there as well.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember to be descriptive and accentuate the positive.
• Brevity is important. Give just enough information to generate interest and a phone call.
• Remember mystery and urgency!
• Don't give too much information in your ad. If you tell potential buyers everything in the ad, they don't have a reason to call.

[PawPawFrankie]

on 3/17/2009 Great ad writing tips! 5*