In India, there are so many free classifieds that the reader only gets to notice the ones that really pop out at him. If you are intending to post your own classified ads, they must be written in such a way that they can catch and hold the reader’s attention among all the others.

First of all, you must come up with a good headline. This is the primary element that will make your ad jump out at the reader among all the other free classifieds. If the reader is attracted to the headline, there is a big chance that he will go on reading the ad’s content. There are a few factors that make a headline impressive.

It must be catchy and grab one’s attention. Catchiness is big in India and can make or break popularity. That said, it shouldn’t be too long but it must have a nice ring to it.

Important keywords should be included. Whatever your ad is about, your headline must give that clear picture to the reader. That way, he knows that if he reads on, he will be reading content that is applicable to him or that he is interested in. It will also narrow down the readers to those who are truly potential customers and not just skimming through, saving your time and that of the reader’s.

If you have a target group, you can mention it in the headline. For example, if what you are selling is particularly catered to children, it must be specified. That way, it will catch the eye of the people involved more quickly.

Sales talk must already begin with the headline. Some people don’t bother with reading entire classified ads; they stop at the headline. If you already make a brief sales pitch with the headline, then it may be the thing to persuade the reader. Then, it is likely he or she will read the rest of the ad for the remaining details. Your headline must have that independent power to make a sale.

When you have come up with the perfect headline, you must then choose your words carefully for the rest of the ad.

Classified Ad Content

It should be product-focused. Although you want to promote the company’s name, that should be secondary. The reason for an ad is to sell the product, so it should be the main focus. The customer is looking for a product, presumably, not the company.

A customer is more likely to respond if he is addressed personally. “You” is always more direct than “I”, “us” or “we”. Apart from the product, the customer is the most important focus. Make sure to put him before the company.

Include all the benefits. Although a particular few may sound good enough to you, it is possible that that one last detail you neglected to specify would have made the sale. Each customer has his own mental list of deal-makers and breakers. Plus, he is apt to weigh the benefits with the cost. The more he can tick off, the more he is persuaded that he is making a good deal.

Whether your ad is catered to India or somewhere else, make sure you have an image of the customer in mind while writing the ad. Then you will know how best to communicate to him and among a sea of free classifieds, he will know which one is worth his attention.