Reddit doesn’t look like Facebook, Instagram or Twitter, so advertising on the social media platform might feel intimidating.
The website refers to itself as a “network of communities based on people’s interests.” These communities, known as subreddits, enable members to share images, videos and links as well as comment on existing threads. In addition, users can give feedback in the form of upvotes or downvotes that signal a thread’s popularity.
Reddit has about 52 million daily active users and about 430 million users who use it once a month.
That means that with Reddit advertising, you have the ability to reach users you might not otherwise reach.
The following are seven tips to successfully advertise on Reddit.
Actually use Reddit
It sounds simple, but if you want to do well with Reddit advertising, it’s important to be a regular user of the platform to better understand its nuances.
While Reddit has many characteristics that should be familiar to any social media user, the platform is still unique.
In particular, there is an entire Reddit culture that you should be aware of. Dive deeper with our four tips to natively market your brand on Reddit.
Select the right subreddits
Reddit itself is organized by subreddits, which are communities that form around topics and subjects. Each subreddit is managed by different moderators who set their own rules.
Because of that, different subreddits can have different atmospheres, even if they’re related in some way.
With Reddit advertising, you can opt for subreddit-based ad targeting instead of allowing Reddit to target based on its determination of user interests. This puts a lot of power in your hands but only if you’re selecting the right subreddits for the target audience you’re looking for.
To get it right, you must do your research. Don’t assume from the name of a subreddit that it’s the right one for your Reddit advertising goals.
Be prepared for less robust ad tools and analytics
Many social media platforms offer robust advertising tools and analytics capabilities. But not Reddit, so be prepared for a comparatively basic experience than what you’re used to.
While less robust tools make it harder to execute and pivot as necessary, it does push you to invest time to understand Reddit and its users in order to be successful and achieve your goals on the platform.
Keep it real
Any content that’s overly polished or appears to be trying to hard can get called out by Reddit users quickly.
But to walk the line between not being too polished and then looking like you’re trying too hard to sound “cool” is an art form within itself.
In general, you’re best off with ad copy that’s clear and straightforward. Of course, you can mention discounts or other promotions to generate interest, but you still want to be very direct and concise when doing so.
Definitely keep an eye out for other Reddit ads for inspiration to see how others tailor their voice to the platform and still aim to compel users to take an action.
Select the correct Reddit ad type
The most commonly-used ad format on Reddit is Promoted Posts, and it offers two ad type options: link ads and text ads.
Link ads direct users to a URL outside of Reddit when clicked. But text ads link to a Reddit post, which can contain more text (and that text can include external links).
While both types can be effective, it’s key to think through the goal of your Reddit advertising overall, as well as the ad in question. Link ads are obviously appealing, but there’s a lot of utility to using text ads to share a longer-form message on Reddit. And that longer-form message could generate its own engagement and conversation.
Prepare for ad feedback
Reddit is a platform that bases itself on giving users the ability to voice their opinions. So, it’s entirely possible that these users will provide feedback on your ads, which can be in the form of upvotes or downvotes. It also could be in the form of comments if you’re using a text ad.
This enters the risk of negative feedback that you have to be ready and prepared for. Check out our seven tips for handling negative social media comments.
Always experiment and optimize accordingly
Just like with any other social media advertising platform, experimentation is key to success. Reddit advertising is no different.
It can take time and effort to get things right. But the reward is reaching a potentially untapped segment of your target audience.
In conclusion
While some businesses might be intimidated by wading into Reddit advertising, there is an opportunity there. If it seems like it’s an opportunity that’s worth exploring and you have the resources to do so, then spend time on the platform to better understand it. Collect examples of ads you like, and don’t be afraid to experiment.
As you explore Reddit advertising, consider optimizing your digital marketing process, which includes automation, audience segmentation and enhanced email marketing capabilities, to name a few. DailyStory can help. Schedule your free demo with us today.
