Personal ads have been around for a long time, and with the growing number of online dating platforms, it has become easier than ever to find potential partners. Craigslist and Doublelist are two of the most popular online classified platforms where people post personal ads looking for love, friendship, or casual encounters. However, creating an effective personal ad is not always straightforward, as it requires a good understanding of what to include and what to avoid. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the dos and don’ts of writing a successful personal ad on Craigslist or Doublelist.

The Dos and Don’ts

1. DO describe yourself accurately: The first thing you should do when writing a personal ad is to describe yourself accurately. This includes your age, gender, physical appearance, and personality traits. Be honest and straightforward about who you are, and avoid exaggerating or hiding any details about yourself. Also, if you have any specific preferences or deal-breakers, include them in your ad so that potential partners know what to expect.
2. DON’T be overly specific: While it’s essential to describe yourself accurately, it’s equally important not to be too specific. Avoid listing your ideal partner’s physical attributes, career, or other characteristics that are too restrictive. This will limit the pool of potential partners and may turn off those who don’t fit your criteria. Instead, describe the qualities that matter most to you, such as honesty, kindness, and a good sense of humor.
3. DO use a compelling headline: Your headline is the first thing people will see when browsing personal ads. Make it attention-grabbing and compelling, so people will want to click on your ad. Avoid using clichés or boring headlines like “Looking for love” or “Seeking a soulmate.” Instead, use creative and unique headlines that reflect your personality and what you’re looking for.
4. DON’T use explicit language: While Craigslist and Doublelist are known for their casual encounters section, using explicit language in personal ads is often frowned upon. Not only is it against the sites’ policies, but it may also attract the wrong kind of attention. Be respectful and use appropriate language in your ad, whether you’re looking for a serious relationship or a casual encounter.
5. DO use a clear and recent photo: A picture is worth a thousand words, and it’s very likely that people will skip over your ad if you don’t include one. Make sure you use a clear and recent photo, preferably a headshot. Avoid using group photos or blurry images that may not accurately represent you. Also, if you’re uncomfortable sharing your photo on a public platform, consider exchanging pictures privately with potential partners.

Conclusion:

Writing a personal ad on Craigslist or Doublelist can be an effective way to find a partner, but it requires some effort to create an effective ad. Keep in mind the dos and don’ts we’ve outlined in this post, and you’ll be able to create a personal ad that will catch people’s attention and hopefully lead to a successful relationship. Remember to be honest, respectful, and open-minded, and you’ll increase your chances of finding the right match. Good luck!