What kind of banner ads actually work nowadays?
Think ads are just for established businesses? Think again. As a creator, the right type of ad can be one of the simplest ways to turn traffic into money.
From classic skyscraper banners to email links, here’s your quick crash course on which ad formats actually work for creators like you, and how to use them without turning your feed into a spammy sales page.
Banner ads: Are they a thing of the past, or do they still work for creators?
In a way, it’s the OG ad format that everybody loves to hate, but it can still make money. Where and how? - You might ask. Here’s where they’re most likely to convert:
Blog posts - writing about best lenses if you’re a pro photographer, and you have an advanced course you’re thinking of pushing? Write about the lenses and pop in a banner on the side, redirecting users to the course.
Newsletters - the rule of thumb is that if they’re relevant to the current “conversation”, aka you writing them about new content you just launched, they will most likely convert.
Creator-owner landing pages - same as before, as long as it’s relevant, appealing, and complementing the content on the page, it will likely get clicked.
One well-placed banner at the top or between sections can still do a great job, but don’t overload your pages with them! They need to seem symbiotic with the rest of the content.
If you like the sound of this nice little symbiosis, you’re in for a treat with native ads.
Native ads: The smooth operator
As you might know, the reason why this type of ad format works is that it looks and feels like organic content. While it might appear in the “sponsored by” sections of blog posts, social captions, or even newsletters, it blends nicely with the rest of the page, so it’s more likely to be perceived by the user as relevant or a continuation of the original content.
Quick tip: It’s more impactful when it supports the content’s message or solves a problem for the audience.
Where to use it if you’re a creator? It’s best for affiliate links, sponsored blurbs, or custom callouts in posts.
Think of native ads like this: If an ad blends in but still gets clicked… was it even an ad?
Video ads: How to monetize pre-rolls and mid-rolls like a pro
Now, if you’re a YouTuber or a long-form video creator, this ad format is essential. Here’s how they’re different and why they’re both good for your business:
The pre-roll is placed before your video starts, and it should get them excited about the content that’s about to start, so make the clip snappy and enticing.
The mid-roll ads are somewhere in the middle and work best after a hook or teaser, not in the middle of a key point.
Something we here at Model Traffic saw performs well is mixing platform ads (like YouTube’s built-in ones) with personal promos or brand shoutouts.
Pop-ups: Use with caution
This one’s not an easy one, it’s among the most polarizing ad formats because it’s hard to get right. First of all, it should never interrupt key content; it should be placed at the end, on exit intent, or after scrolling 75% of the content.
Second of all, it needs to be short, easy to skip, and mobile-friendly. Making it difficult to close on a small screen can be frustrating and cost you users.
It’s best used for email signups, limited-time offers, or “support me” CTAs.
Push notifications: High risk, high reward
The risk is high because they’re instant alerts people get even when they’re not on your site. It’s like an unexpected knock on your audience’s door. If you’re interrupting, you better have something good to say.
You’ll see results when used for very specific purposes, like flash offers or live event reminders. Things are truly relevant for them. The convert best for creators with consistent new content or limited drops.
But don’t overdo it, too many and you’ll see the hit in stats.
Email engagement: Ads that don’t feel like ads
Your newsletter is prime real estate, so make your ads are organic as possible. Some of the formats that work best are native-style sponsor blurbs, affiliate links, or even banner placements.
Make sure the ad blends into your voice; readers should feel like you endorse it, not a brand shouting at them.
Sponsored content: When it’s worth doing
The best way to go about sponsored content is to have entire posts or videos paid by a brand. That’s usually the most lucrative format. Only collaborate with brands you genuinely care about because audiences can smell fake enthusiasm from a mile away.
Disclose the fact that it’s sponsored content clearly, but make it natural. Use story-driven formats, tutorials, or “how I use this” content to keep it engaging.
The rule is, if you wouldn’t recommend it for free, you shouldn’t recommend it for money.
Whenever in doubt about what’s the best way to get good traffic to your content, contact us. We’ll be waiting.
