How to create mobile-first ad copy

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Creating mobile-first ad copy is crucial in today’s digital landscape, as most users access the internet through their mobile devices. With the rise of mobile-first design, it’s essential to adapt your ad copy to the unique characteristics of mobile devices. Here’s an expanded guide to help you create effective mobile-first ad copy:

Understanding Mobile Users

Before creating mobile-first ad copy, it’s essential to understand the mobile user’s behavior and preferences. Mobile users are often on-the-go, with limited attention spans and a desire for instant gratification. They’re more likely to engage with ads that are concise, visually appealing, and provide a clear call-to-action.

Key Characteristics of Mobile Users

  1. Short attention span: Mobile users have a shorter attention span than desktop users, so keep your ad copy brief and to the point.
  2. On-the-go: Mobile users are often in a hurry, so make sure your ad copy is easy to consume and understand quickly.
  3. Visual-centric: Mobile users are more likely to engage with visual content, such as images and videos, than text-based content.
  4. Goal-oriented: Mobile users are often looking for a specific solution or answer, so make sure your ad copy is focused on the benefits and value you provide.
  5. Skeptical: Mobile users are more likely to be skeptical of ads, so make sure your ad copy is transparent and trustworthy.

Best Practices for Mobile-First Ad Copy

  1. Keep it concise: Mobile users have limited attention spans, so keep your ad copy brief and to the point. Aim for 10-15 words or less in your headline and 50-75 characters in your description.
  2. Focus on benefits: Mobile users are often looking for a specific solution or answer, so focus on the benefits of your product or service rather than its features.
  3. Use clear and simple language: Avoid using jargon or technical terms that might confuse mobile users. Use simple, clear language that’s easy to understand.
  4. Highlight the unique selling proposition (USP): What sets your product or service apart from the competition? Highlight this in your ad copy to grab the user’s attention.
  5. Use action-oriented language: Encourage mobile users to take action by using action-oriented language like “Sign up now,” “Get started today,” or “Learn more.”
  6. Use social proof: Mobile users are more likely to trust reviews and ratings from other users. Use social proof like “4.5-star rating” or “Recommended by 90% of customers” to build trust.
  7. Use visuals: Mobile users are visual creatures, so use high-quality images or videos to grab their attention. Make sure they’re optimized for mobile devices.
  8. Test and optimize: Test different ad copy variations and optimize for performance. Use A/B testing to see which ad copy performs better and adjust accordingly.
  9. Use mobile-specific ad formats: Use mobile-specific ad formats like native ads, interstitial ads, or rewarded videos to reach mobile users.
  10. Consider the user’s journey: Think about the user’s journey and what they’re looking for. Are they searching for a solution to a problem? Are they looking for entertainment? Tailor your ad copy to their needs.

Mobile-First Ad Copy Structures

  1. Problem-agitation-solution (PAS): Identify a problem, agitate it, and then offer a solution.
  2. Before-after-benefit (BAB): Show the before state, the after state, and the benefit of using your product or service.
  3. Unique selling proposition (USP) and benefit: Highlight what sets your product or service apart and the benefit it provides.

Example of Mobile-First Ad Copy

Headline: “Get 24/7 access to your favorite shows”

Description: “Stream your favorite TV shows and movies anywhere, anytime with our app. No contracts, no hidden fees. Try it free for 30 days!”

Visuals: A high-quality image of a person watching TV on their mobile device.

This ad copy is concise, focuses on benefits, and uses action-oriented language. It also highlights the unique selling proposition (no contracts, no hidden fees) and provides a clear call-to-action (try it free for 30 days).

Mobile-First Ad Copy for Different Industries

  1. E-commerce: Focus on the benefits of shopping on your mobile app, such as exclusive deals, easy checkout, and personalized recommendations.
  2. Travel: Highlight the convenience of booking travel arrangements on your mobile app, such as easy access to flight information, hotel reservations, and car rentals.
  3. Finance: Emphasize the security and convenience of managing your finances on your mobile app, such as tracking your accounts, making payments, and transferring money.
  4. Health and wellness: Focus on the benefits of using your mobile app for health and wellness, such as tracking your fitness goals, monitoring your health metrics, and accessing expert advice.
  5. Education: Highlight the convenience and accessibility of learning on your mobile app, such as access to courses, tutorials, and expert instructors.

Conclusion

Creating mobile-first ad copy requires a deep understanding of mobile users’ behavior and preferences. By following the best practices and structures outlined above, you can create effective ad copy that resonates with mobile users and drives conversions. Remember to keep it concise, focus on benefits, and use visuals to grab attention. With the right mobile-first ad copy, you can increase engagement, drive conversions, and grow your business.