Pop-up Windows: Are They an Effective or Annoying Internet Marketing Tactic?

In the not too distant past, pop-up windows were all the rage for marketing on the internet. Every time we opened a web page, we were bombarded with various offers of goods or services. It had gotten to the point where surfing the internet was like playing a video game-Kill the Pop-ups or Die Trying. When the ads popped-up, we had to try and close them out before another one popped up. It seemed we spent more time shutting down pop-ups then we did actually surfing.

That is precisely why we have seen a decline in the use of pop-up windows on the internet today. Surfers simply disregard the pop-ups and usually just close the window without even bothering to read the ad. Too many pop-up ads can also cause the user to leave your site. You have valuable information to offer, but nobody will see it. Their time is valuable and they are not about to waste it closing out numerous pop-up ads.

Despite these setbacks, studies have shown that pop-up windows remain an effective method of internet marketing.

Is there a way that pop-up windows can be less annoying, yet still be an effective marketing tool?

Yes! Consider placing the pop-up where it can be seen upon exiting your site instead of entering. This allows the surfer to obtain the information they came for without being hassled by frequent advertisements and offers. The surfer leaves your site with a positive attitude and is more likely to respond to the pop advertisement.

This type of ad is known as the pop-under window. Here is how the pop-under works. When the surfer comes to your site, the ad is opened up discretely behind your web page. The person visiting your site obtains the information they came for. Upon exiting, they will see the ad. Now, they are more likely to respond because you have taken care of their needs first. Since the surfer is satisfied that he has achieved his objective, he is now open to other ideas; namely responding to your pop-under advertisement.

Let's talk about some ways that you can make your pop-windows, whether pop-ups or pop-unders, more effective. Here are 6 ways to effective pop-windows:

First and most important, the pop-window should be easy to escape from. If the surfer has a hard time closing it out, she will likely become frustrated and leave your site altogether. Either use a button that allows the surfer to close the window or be sure that the x is easily visible. Another method of effectiveness is to use a script that utilizes cookies. Cookies will prevent pop windows from overloading the surfer, since they allow you to make a decision regarding the frequency of the pop-windows you use. Thirdly, never use more than one pop-window per page. Four, when choosing the design of the pop-window, you can increase the effectiveness by creating a large headline that addresses benefits to the customer. Also consider using incentives and lastly, do not expect the customer to read a lengthy advertisement.

Keep your message simple yet powerful and your pop-windows are sure to generate profits for your site and happy repeat customers.