Week 13 Part A: Online Advertising - Analysis of the Marketplace

 Social media is basically a marketplace now. I cannot scroll through Facebook or Instagram without running into at least a few ads. Some of them are actually pretty good. I will see something like a cute video of someone using a product that solves a small problem in a smart way, like a magnetic phone mount or a mini portable blender. The ones that grab my attention usually have calm colors, a relatable vibe, and a clear call to action like “Shop Now” or “Try it Free.” It does not feel pushy. It feels like they are just showing me something I might genuinely like. And yes, I have clicked a few. Most take me straight to a clean, simple product page that makes it easy to order.

Then there are the annoying ones. Loud, over-the-top ads with fake timers or those ridiculous mobile game ads that look nothing like the actual game. They are everywhere, and they are exhausting. I have clicked on a few just out of curiosity, and they almost always lead to cluttered websites or app stores full of bad reviews.

When I compare this to traditional ads, like the kind you see on TV, in a magazine, or on a billboard, social media definitely feels more effective to me. It is just more personal. A magazine ad has one shot to catch your attention, and it is the same for everyone who sees it. Social media ads are based on what you like, what you follow, and even what you have searched. That makes them feel more relevant most of the time.

But there is a downside too. Sometimes ads get it totally wrong, like showing me beard oil or strange supplements that have nothing to do with me. Other times, it is almost too accurate. I will just talk about something and it shows up in an ad. I have not even searched for it yet, and it is already there. That can feel invasive, like I am being watched.

Overall, I think social media advertising can be helpful if it is done with more thought. When it is useful and feels like it fits into my life, I do not mind it. But when it crosses the line and starts to feel creepy or overly aggressive, it completely turns me off.