Native Advertising 101: A Conversation with Maram Al Dahabi

Native advertising is a unique way to advertise online. Ads fit right in with the content users are already looking at, so they're less intrusive and more engaging. To learn more about this powerful marketing tool, we interviewed Maram Al Dahabi, a Digital Marketing Growth Manager at Journify. She offers comprehensive digital marketing solutions, focusing on expanding reach, enhancing engagement, boosting conversions, and maximizing ROI for increased revenue growth.

Q&A Session with Maram

Q: How would you define native media in your own words?

Maram: I like to think of native media as interactive advertising that's so well-integrated with websites and social platforms. It’s particularly effective at the top of the sales funnel because it often gets higher click-through rates (CTR).

Q: Can you explain how native advertising differs from traditional advertising?

Maram: While they share similar goals, the execution is what sets native advertising apart. It involves working with premium publishers to place ads on quality sites, blending with the editorial content around them. At Journify, we focus on ensuring ads appear on premium sites to make a stronger impact and improve reception.

Q:  Can you please also explain the different types of native ads and their unique strengths?

Maram: Definitely! Native ads come in different shapes, each with its unique perks:

• In-Feed Ads: These appear directly in the main content feed, mirroring the style and layout of the platform for a seamless user experience. They’re less disruptive, making them more engaging.
• Social Posts: Sponsored posts on social media that mimic regular content let brands target specific audiences while feeling relatable and authentic.
• Video Ads: These captivating video ads match the platform’s editorial style, providing informative or entertaining value.

Q: What advice would you give to someone who's just starting to explore native advertising for their business?

Maram: Targeting is key! You need to understand your audience deeply. For instance, if your target audience is above 25 years old, it's advisable to focus on premium site lists. For younger audiences, a social media-focused approach might be more effective. It's essential to consider the context and age segment of your target audience.

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It's also important to make sure these ads fit well with the content people are viewing, especially now that tracking cookies are less common.

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Q: What recent trends in native media do you find most interesting?

Maram: I'm excited to see native ads more deeply integrated into video content and tailored using advanced analytics to better match user behaviors and preferences. These trends make native ads increasingly dynamic and impactful.

Q: As a content creator, yourself, how do you view the importance of native advertising?

Maram: Native advertising is crucial for building brand awareness. It allows brands to reach niche audiences effectively. The ability to mix ads smoothly into what users are already looking at online, without them really noticing, is a big advantage. It's also important to make sure these ads fit well with the content people are viewing, especially now that tracking cookies are less common. So, ads that naturally fit into the user's browsing can really help grab their attention in a way that feels relevant and not disruptive.

Conclusion

Native advertising is a marketing strategy that respects user experience while delivering compelling messages. In-feed ads, social media posts, and video content integrate seamlessly into user activity, fostering positive brand associations. Journify's native media solutions can help position your ads optimally, ensuring they connect with your audience.

Ready to up your advertising game? Visit Journify.me and see how native advertising can boost your brand's online presence.

More about Maram: Maram Al Dahabi’s expertise provides valuable insights into the evolving world of native advertising, emphasizing its strategic importance in a digital age where user engagement and targeted messaging are paramount.

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