What Makes A Good Native Ad?

In the vast landscape of advertising, standing out has become more challenging than ever. With users becoming increasingly savvy and immune to traditional advertising techniques, marketers are continuously seeking innovative ways to capture attention. Native advertising is effective at reaching users who have grown weary of ads by seamlessly blending advertisements into the content that surrounds them. But what sets the best native ads apart from the rest? Let's review the key components that constitute an effective native ad.

‍

1. Authenticity and Relevance

The very essence of native advertising lies in its ability to merge seamlessly with the platform's existing content. This doesn't just refer to its physical appearance but also the content and context. The best native ads are those that feel authentic and relevant to the audience. They shouldn't feel forced or out of place. Instead, they should provide value in the context of what the audience is already consuming.

‍

For instance, a native ad on a travel blog might discuss the benefits of a particular luggage brand in the context of a personal travel story. The best native ads not only match the visual style of the platform but also resonate with the content's tone and context, offering valuable insights or information pertinent to the audience.

‍

2. Visual Appeal

While the message is paramount, the presentation cannot be ignored. The aesthetics of an ad play a pivotal role in capturing a viewer's attention. The best native ads are those that are visually appealing, with high-quality images, engaging graphics, and a design that complements the platform it's displayed on. It's not just about looking good; it's about resonating with the audience's preferences and the platform's aesthetic.

‍

Take, for example, a native ad on Instagram. It might showcase a product through an influencer's day-to-day activities, using high-quality visuals that align with the platform's aesthetic. The best native ads don't just look good; they echo the platform's visual language, resonating with the audience's expectations and tastes.

‍

3. Clear, Yet Subtle Call-to-Action (CTA)

A native ad's primary purpose is to encourage the viewer to take a specific action, whether it's clicking on a link, signing up for a newsletter, or making a purchase. The best native ads strike a delicate balance by providing a clear CTA without being overly aggressive. The CTA should be woven naturally into the content, nudging the viewer towards the desired action without disrupting their experience.

‍

Imagine reading a captivating article about home décor trends, and towards the end, you're subtly introduced to a brand's new furniture collection. The CTA, in this case, could be an invitation to browse the collection. The best native ads incorporate a CTA that feels like a natural next step, gently guiding the reader without being too pushy or salesy.

‍

4. Engaging Storytelling

Storytelling is a powerful tool in the realm of advertising. It allows brands to connect with their audience on an emotional level, fostering trust and loyalty. The best native ads harness the power of storytelling, crafting narratives that are both compelling and relevant. Instead of merely pushing a product or service, these ads tell a story, making the audience feel a connection with the brand.

‍

Consider a native ad that tells the journey of a cocoa bean to a chocolate bar, highlighting a brand's commitment to fair trade and quality. Instead of bluntly advertising chocolate, the ad draws the audience in with a narrative. The best native ads leverage storytelling, forging a bond between the brand and the audience through shared values or experiences.

‍

5. Targeted and Personalized

The era of one-size-fits-all advertising is long gone. Today's consumers expect personalized experiences, tailored to their preferences and behaviors. The best native ads leverage data and insights to ensure that they're reaching the right audience with the right message at the right time. This not only enhances the user experience but also boosts the ad's effectiveness.

‍

A native ad on a parenting website, for instance, could discuss the challenges of nighttime baby care, subtly introducing a brand's new baby monitor. By tailoring the content to the platform's primary audience, the best native ads ensure relevancy and higher engagement.

‍

6. Transparency

Despite their seamless integration with content, the best native ads are always transparent about their promotional nature. Leading platforms and publishers have clear guidelines about labeling native ads as "sponsored" or "promoted" content. This transparency is crucial for maintaining trust with the audience.

‍

For example, a native ad on a news website, even if it perfectly matches the site's style and tone, should be labeled as advertising. The best native ads strike a balance between blending in and being open about their commercial nature, ensuring audiences always know they're engaging with promotional content.

‍

7. Feedback and Adaptation

The digital ecosystem is ever-evolving. An ad that works wonders today might not be as effective tomorrow. Brands that excel in native advertising often revisit their strategies, tweaking them based on audience feedback and performance metrics. For example, if a native ad in a video format isn't garnering enough views, brands might consider repurposing the content into an article or infographic. Brands that monitor the performance of their native ads and adjust their strategies accordingly are more likely to achieve long-term success.

‍

Conclusion

In the age of information overload, capturing and retaining the audience's attention is a challenging task. Native advertising offers a promising solution, allowing brands to promote their offerings in a non-intrusive manner. However, not all native ads are created equal. The best native ads are those that are authentic, visually appealing, engaging, transparent, and adaptive. By incorporating these elements, brands can craft native ads that not only drive results but also enhance the user experience.

‍

See what's possible with Nativo. Fill out the form below to schedule a free demo with one of our dedicated experts.

‍