Native Advertising: Blurring the Line

You're reading an article on CNN or The Guardian. At the bottom, "Around the Web." "You won't believe what this 90s star looks like now." "The encryption device the government bans."

This is Native Advertising. It looks like editorial content.

The Strategy: The "Pre-Sell" Page

You never send Native traffic to a product page. You send them to an Advertorial. An article that tells a story.

• Headline: "Why Seniors Are Rushing to Buy This New Knee Sleeve."
• Body: Story about 'John' who couldn't walk, discovered this tech, and now plays golf. Scientific explanation.
• CTA: "Check availability in your area."

Why it works

It builds trust and curiosity before the sale. It bypasses the "Ad Blindness" people have for banners.

The "Chumbox" Stigma

Native has a reputation for being trashy (clickbait). Modern Native is changing. High-end brands are using it for "Content Discovery." Instead of "one weird trick," they promote "5 Financial Tips for 2025."

Best for...

• Health supplements.
• Gadgets.
• Financial services.
• Mass market appeal products.

If you have a niche B2B SaaS, skip Native. If you have a cool flashlight, go all in.