Billboard advertising can be an incredibly effective way to reach a large audience, but only if it’s done right. Unfortunately, many people make some common mistakes that can significantly reduce the impact of their billboard ads. Here are the three most glaring mistakes to avoid:

1. Overloading with Information

One of the biggest mistakes is trying to include too much information on the billboard. Unlike other advertising mediums, billboards are meant to be seen from a distance and often only for a few seconds as people drive or walk by. Cramming too much text or too many images can make the ad cluttered and difficult to read quickly.

Tip: Keep your message concise and focused. Use a strong headline, a clear call to action, and minimal supporting text. A memorable image or graphic can help convey your message quickly.

2. Poor Contrast and Color Choices

The readability of your billboard heavily depends on the contrast and color choices you make. Using colors that blend together or fail to stand out against the backdrop can render your ad ineffective. Similarly, choosing fonts that are hard to read from a distance can also diminish your billboard’s impact.

Tip: Opt for high-contrast color combinations (e.g., black text on a yellow background) and bold, easy-to-read fonts. Test your design from a distance to ensure it remains legible and eye-catching.

3. Lack of a Clear Call to Action

Even if your billboard captures attention, it needs to drive the audience to take a specific action. A common mistake is not including a clear and compelling call to action (CTA). Without a CTA, people might notice your ad but won’t know what to do next.

Tip: Make sure your billboard includes a clear, simple, and direct call to action. Whether it’s visiting a website, calling a phone number, or attending an event, your CTA should be straightforward and prominent.

Avoiding these common mistakes can significantly enhance the effectiveness of your billboard ad.

How to Design Billboard Ads Ebook: 

 Learn the best practices for creating effective billboard ads that capture attention and drive engagement. This ebook provides tips and examples to help you design impactful advertisements.

Remember to keep it simple, ensure it’s readable from a distance, and always include a clear call to action. By focusing on these key aspects, you can create a billboard that not only catches the eye but also drives the desired response from your audience. Happy designing!


For more tips on creating effective billboard ads and other digital out-of-home advertising strategies, visit Cidewalk and take your advertising game to the next level.