How to Write a Selling Ad That Actually Works

Step-by-step guide + examples and common mistakes

Most ads fail to sell not because the product is bad, but because the ad is poorly written.
In this article, we'll break down how to write an ad that attracts attention, builds trust, and leads to a sale.

1. The Headline — 50% of Success

The headline is the first thing a user sees in Google search and on classified ad sites.

Bad:

Selling phone

Good:

iPhone 13, 128 GB, perfect condition, complete set

Formula for a selling headline:

What you're selling + key feature + condition / benefit

Examples:

• Apartment renovation turnkey — fast and with warranty
• IKEA sofa, almost new, pickup available
• Office cleaning — one-time or on a regular basis

Tip: use words that people actually search for (model, service, city).

2. Description: Answer Questions in Advance

A good ad saves time — both yours and the buyer's.

What to include:

• Exactly what you're selling / offering
• Item condition or service experience
• Reason for selling (optional, but increases trust)
• Terms: delivery, pickup, warranty
• Price: fixed or negotiable

Example of a good ad:

Selling iPhone 13, 128 GB, black.
Used carefully, no scratches, always kept in a case.
Complete set + original box.
Works perfectly, selling because I'm buying a new model.
Price: €520, reasonable offers considered.

3. Photos Matter More Than Text

Ads with quality photos get 3-5 times more responses.

How to take photos:

• Real product, not stock images from the internet
• Good lighting
• Multiple angles
• Details and defects (honesty = trust)

Bad: Blurry photos, screenshots, images from Google

4. Price: Don't Overprice or Underprice

Price too high — no responses. Price too low — suspicion of fraud.

How to set the price:

• Check similar listings
• Consider the condition
• Leave room for negotiation

5. Contact and Trust

Must have:

• Current phone number or chat
• Polite tone
• Willingness to answer questions

People buy from people, not from "faceless ads."

TOP-7 Ad Mistakes

1. No photos or one bad photo
2. Description too short
3. CAPS LOCK AND EXCLAMATIONS!!!
4. No price listed
5. Deception or hidden defects
6. Old, outdated listings
7. Spelling errors

Good Ad Checklist

Clear headline
Detailed description
Real photos
Fair price
Convenient contact method

Conclusion

If you want to quickly sell a product or service — start with the right ad.
And you can post it for free and easily on Ozna.sk.

Try applying these tips today — you'll see the difference immediately.