Five Keys to a Great Ad

1. Know your
   consumer – Know who you’re talking to, what they care about, how they
   think, and most importantly, why your product and service would appeal to them.
2. Communicate
   clearly – Keep your message short, simple, and to the point. Replace dull,
   passive words and phrases with active ones. Focus on one strong, motivating
   message. Tell your reader exactly how they will benefit from your product or
   service. What is your company’s unique advantage? Why you and not your
   competitor? Eliminate any barriers the consumer may have. Why would they resist
   buying your product? Eliminate that issue.
3. Tell your
   customer what you want them to do– If you want them to call, make sure your
   phone number is prominent with a “Call Today!” If you want them to check out
   your website, tell them that. If you want them to come in your store, give them
   a reason to. Tell them what they will miss if they don’t buy your product or
   service.
4. Record
   the strength and value of your ad – Motivate the consumer with special
   offers, free trials, discounts, coupons, or bonuses. Make sure you include
   those three powerful words, “with this ad.” Only then will you be able to
   accurately assess the effectiveness of your advertising efforts.

5. Have an
   editing eye– With every element of your ad, ask yourself, “Will this
   increase my response?” If yes, keep it. And if not, trash it. An excessively
   busy, un-focused ad turns consumers off. Remember you only have 3 seconds to
   capture the reader’s attention. So be clear, be concise, and be memorable.

If you’d like to advertise in
Edmond Outlook Magazine contact Laura Beam by calling (405) 478-4080 or
emailing laura@edmondoutlook.com .