Monday, December 15, 2008

How to Write a Self Storage Classified Ad

It’s amazing to think that in this age of overwhelming technology, texting, and the internet that newspapers and classified ads haven’t become completely obsolete. There are lots of advanced ways to advertise a self storage facility these days, but you probably aren’t going to buy a banner ad on the web.

Believe it or not, the classifieds are still a great way to advertise your self storage facility. But so many classified ads are so poorly written that they’re a waste of everyone’s time, money, and ad space. Writing a successful classified ad isn’t rocket science, but there’s more to it than meets the eye.

If you’re looking to place an ad in the classifieds, it’s important to put a little thought and effort into what you’re going to say and how you’re going to say it.
Here are few tips on how to write a self storage facility classified ad:

Leave Your Contact Information

Sounds like a no brainer, right? It’s amazing how many people place classified ads and don’t leave the reader anyway to get in touch with them. Whatever the means, be sure to give your interested readers a way to pursue your advertisement.

Proofread

The newspaper should tell you when your ad will run and for how long. Be sure to follow up and ensure that your ad is printed in the proper section and that it’s printed correctly. The simplest error can give your short and sweet classified ad a completely different meaning. If there are typos, follow up with the newspaper.

Keep it Short but Detailed

Classified ads aren’t free so there’s always the temptation to keep it short and to the point. It’s true that readers don’t have the attention span to read a small novella in the ad section, but you don’t want to leave out important information. Include information that is sure to pique the interest of your readers. Words like ‘rare’, ‘brand new’, etc. are usually winners.

List a Price or Rate only if it’s a Steal

List your rental rates with pride. Also, give your readers an idea of your position on the price: if it’s negotiable, say so, if it’s not, let them know.

Create a Sense of Urgency

If you’ve taken the time to place a self storage classified ad, you’re probably ready to take action. You want to rent empty units with haste. Let your reader know that you’re ready to act and they will to. Phrases that encourage readers to act quickly will help you get more response.

Use Keywords Over Generic Phrases

Be specific with titling your ad. Paying for bold type and specific wording is worth it. Saying ‘Affordable Self Storage’ or ‘First Month Free’ is more attractive to classifieds readers that generic phrasing. Let them know exactly what you're offering.

When writing a self storage classified ad, it’s important to include as much information as you can in very few words. Tell your readers what you have for rent and what’s in it for them. The power of the classifieds to help everyday people exchange goods and services is still alive and well.

You can also place self storage classified ads on dozens of high quality internet websites for free. Go here for a directory of the best free classified sites. You should also consider listing your facility on a directory of self storage facilities.

1 comment:

Xdigg said...

Thank you for this article very helpful

Gavin