Classifieds: Still a Valuable Source of Bargains

The advance of the internet has affected just about every aspect of our everyday life, from the way we communicate to the way we search for things that interest us or wish to buy.

People are always searching for things that they need or want, from small items like key fobs to a life-changing experience such as a new job. Prior to the invention of the World Wide Web, the main ways of finding such things was either to trawl through the classifieds in the local newspaper, read all the postcards displayed in the newsagent’s window or by enlisting word of mouth.

Now you are just as likely to find out about a new job in the format of an email, by subscribing to alerts from one of the many job websites operating on the internet. Similarly, auction sites offer just about everything that anyone would want to buy. But, despite of that and contrary to expectations, classified ads are still alive and well; whether in print or on the web, there are many different sections of classifieds available.

Looking for love, searching for a new car, needing a new settee; all of those needs can be satisfied by a using the classifieds, either online or through traditional methods. When the concept of classified advertising was introduced it was primarily text-based. But now modern setting and printing techniques, along with the ease with which images can be added to the web means that now many classifieds contain pictures. For most people, that image can be the major selling point and is certainly what can draw a prospective buyer’s eyes towards a particular advert.

The major benefit that online classifieds offer over printed versions is the ability to search for particular items within a grouping or category, quickly and efficiently. When searching for a car for example with advanced search criteria, a buyer can instantly check whether any cars of a particular make, model, colour, year, mileage and price range are available. However, that flexibility in searching for items translates to any category; whether searching for cupid or in the market for a much-needed item.

Also, it is generally a lot easier to get a classified ad published online. Therefore, from registering with an online classifieds website, adverts can then be placed by using a simple lay-out grid. Additionally, it is possible for the online advert to be listed in the printed version of the classifieds, making sure that advertisers get two bites at the cherry.

But whether online or in traditional print, classified ads are helping people do a booming trade and sell on unwanted items, finding a new car or even true love!
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Adam Singleton writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.