What Goes into Creating a Great Print Ad?

Print advertising remains a powerful tool for reaching and engaging with audiences. A strategic approach is helpful for creating effective print advertisements that resonate with your audience.

Here are seven tips for getting great results:

1. Define clear, measurable objectives. Whether you aim to increase brand awareness, drive sales, or promote a new product, your goal will guide your messaging and creative decisions. Be specific: "I want to increase sales by 10% over last month's ad." Or, "I want to increase per-order revenues by 5%." Otherwise, how will you know you've reached your goals? Be specific, but be realistic, too!

2. Understand your target audience. Knowing your audience includes knowing their demographics, interests, and pain points. This information will help you tailor your message to resonate with them effectively.

3. Use the insights you've gathered to create a compelling message. Focus more on benefits than features. Position your product or service as solving a specific problem or enhancing recipients' lives in a clearly defined way.

4. Capitalize on your competition's vulnerabilities. Identify areas where competitors may fall short and position your product or service as a superior alternative. Highlight your unique selling points that set you apart.

5. Pick the right images. Images capture attention and convey your message. Different photos will appeal to various audiences, so choose high-quality, relevant images that complement your ad's message and appeal to your unique target audience.

6. Include a call to action (CTA). Every print ad should include a clear and compelling call to action. Whether it's encouraging readers to visit your website, call a phone number, or visit a store, make it easy for them to take the next step. You'd be surprised how often marketers forget!

7. Measure your results and refine them for next time. Build in tracking so you know how your campaign performed. This way, you can keep doing what works and stop doing what doesn't. 

Designing a successful print ad doesn't have to be complicated. Planning and following these tips will ensure great results every time.