Fill Out Your Advocate Classifieds Form

Filling out the Advocate Classifieds form can be straightforward, yet mistakes often occur that can lead to delays or complications. One common error is neglecting to specify the price of the item being advertised. The guidelines clearly state that the price must be included in the ad. Failing to do so may result in the ad being rejected, creating unnecessary frustration.

Another frequent mistake involves submitting more than one item per ad. Each classified ad is limited to only 1 item. When individuals try to list multiple items in one submission, it not only contravenes the policy but also complicates the processing of the ad. This could lead to misunderstandings and potential rejections.

Missing the deadline is another major issue. The deadline for ad submission is Thursday at 5:00 PM. Those who submit their forms after this time may find that their advertisement will not run until the following week, wasting valuable time and reducing visibility.

Inaccurate or incomplete contact information can hinder communication. Ensuring that all fields, such as the home phone number and email address, are filled out completely is crucial. If there is a need to clarify or correct the ad, having accurate information is essential for prompt and effective contact.

Finally, misunderstanding the limitations on ad content can also lead to issues. Certain categories such as commercial sales, pets, garage sales, and firearms are not permitted. If individuals include content that violates these restrictions, their ads will not be published. Familiarity with the guidelines is key to preventing missteps in the submission process.

When using the Advocate Classifieds form, you may also encounter several other related documents that assist in placing and managing ads effectively. Understanding these documents can enhance your advertising experience and ensure compliance with the publication's guidelines.

• Payment Authorization Form: This document is essential for ads that require payment beyond the free basic listing. It includes fields for credit card information and allows for secure processing of any associated fees.
• Terms and Conditions Agreement: Familiarizing yourself with this document is important as it outlines the rules and restrictions surrounding ad placements, including prohibited items and billing practices.
• Cancellation Request Form: Should you need to cancel an ad after submission, this form enables you to officially request the cancellation, detailing specific information about the ad you wish to withdraw.
• Ad Revision Form: If you wish to modify an existing ad, this form provides the necessary framework for changes. It asks for information regarding the original submission and the desired updates.
• Feedback Form: After your ad runs, you can use this form to provide feedback on your experience. It helps the publication improve its services and can also be a useful tool for sharing suggestions.

These documents work in tandem with the Advocate Classifieds form, ensuring a smoother process for submitting ads and managing any required changes. Make sure to familiarize yourself with them for a more effective advertising experience.

• Community Bulletin Board Form: Similar to the Advocate Classifieds, this form is used to post local events or advertisements in a community space. It allows residents to share information with others in the area and typically has limitations on content types, just like the restrictions on commercial ads in the Advocate.
• Online Marketplace Listing: Many online platforms require a listing form to post items for sale. These listings often have character limits and specify a price, resembling the guidelines of the Advocate Classifieds that require listing a price and limiting the ad to one item.
• Event Registration Form: This form is used to register attendees for local events. Like the Advocate Classifieds, it usually includes fields for the name, contact information, and the number of attendees, ensuring organized management of event participation.
• Public Notice Submission Form: Used for submitting legal notices in newspapers, this form ensures the information is clear and meets specified guidelines. Similar to the Advocate Classifieds, it may have word limits and deadlines for submission.
• Employment Application Form: Job seekers fill out this form to apply for employment. It collects personal information and qualifications in a structured manner, echoing the way the Advocate Classifieds collect details from individuals wishing to place ads.
• Real Estate Listing Form: Home sellers use this form to provide details about properties. Like the Advocate Classifieds, it requires a clear description and pricing, allowing potential buyers to easily understand details about what’s being offered.
• Grant Proposal Form: Organizations apply for funding through this form, detailing their project and budget. Similar to the Advocate Classifieds, it requires concise writing and the inclusion of specific information within a structured format.

When filling out the Advocate Classifieds form, here are some important dos and don'ts to keep in mind.

• Do ensure your ad's price is clearly stated.
• Do include only one item per ad.
• Do submit your ad before the Thursday 5:00pm deadline.
• Do check the ad for accuracy before submitting.
• Don't forget to list your name and contact information.
• Don't include commercial ads or sell pets, firearms, or garage sales.
• Don't submit more than seven ads per household per week.
• Don't submit ads over the $1000 limit.

Following these guidelines will help ensure your ad is processed smoothly and reaches potential buyers effectively.

• Misconception 1: Ads can be placed any day of the week.

  Actually, ads are only accepted from Monday through Thursday. This limited timeframe ensures that ads are processed efficiently.

• Misconception 2: You can submit ads over the phone.

  No phone ads will be accepted. You must use the designated methods for submission: online, fax, or in person.

• Misconception 3: There are no limits on the number of ads you can submit.

  In reality, you can submit a maximum of seven ads per household per week. This helps maintain fairness among all participants.

• Misconception 4: There are no criteria for what kind of items can be advertised.

  That’s not true. Certain items are prohibited in ads, including commercial items, pets for sale, garage sales, plants, and firearms.

• Misconception 5: You don’t need to include the price in your ad.

  This is incorrect. You must list the price of the item being advertised. This information is crucial for buyers.

• Misconception 6: You can sell items worth any amount.

  Not quite. You can sell items valued up to $1,000 only, ensuring that the classifieds remain accessible and manageable.

• Misconception 7: You can write as much as you want in your ad.

  Each ad is limited to three lines of text. If you need more space, you can add additional lines for a fee.

• Misconception 8: Your ad will start as soon as it is submitted.

  Ads will begin on the first available Monday following submission, so plan ahead for the timing of your ad.

• The Advocate Classifieds form allows you to place free ads for a maximum of three lines.
• Ads can run for up to four days, specifically from Monday to Thursday.
• You can submit your ad online at theadvocate.com/classifieds/lagniappe.
• If you prefer, you can fax your ad to 225-388-0129 or drop it off at 7290 Bluebonnet Blvd.
• For those who like traditional mail, send it to The Advocate, P.O. Box 588, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-0588, Attn: Classified.
• Keep in mind that the deadline for ad submission is Thursday at 5:00 PM.
• Do not expect phone ads to be accepted; only written submissions are allowed.
• Items such as pets for sale, garage sales, plants, and firearms cannot be advertised.
• Every ad must include a price, and you can only list one item per ad.
• You can sell items valued up to $1,000, and ads will start on the first available Monday.
• There is a limit of seven ads per household each week.

Use bold print to make your ad stand out, but note that it costs an additional $.35 per line per day.

Each extra line beyond the first three lines will incur a charge of $.75.

The Advocate reserves the right to edit your ad text as necessary, keeping it clear and suitable for readers.