Internet EntrepreneurBackpage Classifieds is popular for providing multiple services like buying and selling goods online, connecting with other people, or simply marketing their services. This online classifieds platform used to be frequented by many due to its ease of use interface and the abundance of services offered on it. But after the shutting down of Backpage in 2018, many users struggled to find a suitable replacement provider to suit their online marketing needs. To fill that gap, many other platforms have emerged each with their own unique selling propositions. In this blog, I will outline the advantages and disadvantages of using Backpage Classifieds and provide a few of the most popular replacements like starbackpage, 2backpage, obackpage.
Benefits of Backpage Classifieds
When Backpage Classifieds was still running, it had some functionalities that made it very advantageous to use. Successful operations relied on its easy-to-use interface and listing feature. One focus point was its popularity which allowed any user to buy or sell services, connect with a diverse range of people, and even products. Here are some of the important benefits:
Backpage Classifieds Ads Managed to Cover a Wide Range of Users
Backpage was widely popular which means that their users could reach out to potential local clients in a matter of minutes. Posting Backpage ads helped people who were looking for services, people, or even job opportunities. The popularity of the site only helped broaden the scope of potential clients to meet their daily business requirements.
Lack of Costs Associated with Posting Ads
Backpage allowed for effortless payment free advertising which played a significant role in attracting users. Most advertising platforms charge for listing services or products, however Backpage did the opposite and enabled users to advertise without any monetary investment which was beneficial for self employed individuals and small businesses.
Easy to Use
The platform made a name for itself due to its ease of access. Either a user wanted to post an ad or browse the listings, the simplistic layout would ensure there were no obstacles for the user to face. This meant that anyone, even those who had never used the internet, could create their own ads with reasonable ease.
All Types of Ads
Backpage classified ads covered a wide range of categories, including employment, real estate, services, and personal niche ads. This variety helped many users find exactly what they needed and also assisted businesses in focusing on specific consumer segments. Moreover, it helped the emergence of niche markets in the platform as well.
Advertising In Specific Areas
The platform allowed people within a certain geographical region to connect with each other easily. This feature was especially useful for local service providers such as plumbers, babysitters, and artists as they could target their immediate market. The platform helped service providers advertise their services to local clients.
The Disadvantages Of Backpage Classified Advertising
Backpage Classifieds was effective in a lot of ways but had some serious problems as well. These issues ultimately contributed to its downfall. Let us examine some of the drawbacks that proved more serious as the usage of the platform increased.
Elevated Chances Of Scams And Fraudulent Activities
Users were very concerned with how scams were too easy to stumble upon while utilizing Backpage. The risk stratification was very straightforward, with almost no verification processes; hence, it was easy to scam people. Many out-of-foot traffic were scammed by fake listings, may it be for services, products, or even housing. This led to trust issues alongside misplaced faith in the platform.
Absence of Supervision
Although Backpage put effort into monitoring the ads, there was a clear lack of effective supervision and scrutiny. Illegal advertising went unchecked and led to the decaying of respect the platform initially had. To illustrate, some ads were made that were still in debate over being morally correct or not, which drew the attention of political figures to eventually take down Backpage.
Closure by the USA Government
Backpage’s biggest problem emerged in 2018 when it was closed down by the US “government”. After this unforeseen closure, many people were forced to find other ways to advertise than what was offered by the platform. The shutdown put a spotlight on some of the more sensitive issues the platform encountered such as sponsoring adult services without any regulation and their overall approach towards moderation.
Website Usability Issues
Backpags had issues with their customer service and support as well. In scenarios where users faced issues, getting assistance after posting ads proved to be difficult. Users were often left in search of aid regarding technical support, fraudulent listings, or account retrieval, leaving the process highly problematic for customers.
Lack of Responsive Web Design
Backpage indeed had a mobile friendly version, but was not as good as other websites. Most users reported struggle in using the platform on mobile devices, making Backpage less preferred than its assemblage of modern classified ad websites.
Best Backpage Alternatives For Service Providers
After the closing down of Backpage, many services have come up that can be used as substitutes. These services provide services similar to what Backpage offered, but have greatly improved in terms of moderation, users’ experience, and even customer support services. Here we will look at the best substitutes that are gaining prominence for business practitioners service providers like yourself:
1. starbackpage – The Best Alternative
starbackpage is fast becoming one of the most popular alternatives for Backpage. Users on the site are able to post classified ads without the hassle that often accompanies such processes. The user-friendly, clean, and simple design makes it very easy for both businesses and individuals to use the site.
What makes starbackpage so different is that it places great importance on local service listings making it the best option for service professionals who want to reach customers in their specific locations. From home services to job and personal ads, starbackpage makes it easier to place and manage all types of advertisements.
2. 2backpage
If you want a good site to post classified ads, 2backpage is one of the best choices. 2backpage has a modern responsive website which makes it easy for service providers to post ads using their mobile devices. The site has many categories and offers for listing services and, like Backpage in its glory days, is able to reach out to many people.
In addition, 2backpage has better moderation policies on ads than other sites so that very few spam ads are posted on its pages. This feature makes it less risky for users who have been scammed on different platforms.
3. obackpage
obackpage is a great alternate site to Backpage with emphasis on its usability and simplicity. The site allows its users to create and manage their ads quickly and easily without missing any important points. With very little information provided on the site, users can quickly find the right category for their service and subsequently offer it to local customers.
One of obackpage’s strongest points is its layout with which posting ads is simple and quick. obackpage and other competitors provide moderation features so that users feel more secure and protected.
4. Classified Ads
Similar to Backpage, Classified Ads serves as a good alternative. It has been in the business of advertising both locally and nationally for a long time, getting the attention of both businessmen and individuals. Users can easily retrieve the information they need due to the simplistic design of the platform, making it easy to post ads and browse through listings.
5. Craigslist
While not a direct alternative to Backpage, Craigslist remains to be one of the best platforms for classifieds ads. Backpage’s replacement focused on a certain type of services that now cannot be found on the pages of Craigslist, but in different sections of the site, the clients are free to post almost any advertisement they want. Because of its many users and years in the market, it is considered one of the best websites.
6. Locanto
Locanto is a platform where users can post ads spanning different topics like jobs, real estate, and services. Locanto enables service providers to advertise their services, allowing greater access to people in specific local communities. It is a great site because it is global but also has very strong features.
7. Adpost
Adpost is another useful alternative with a free-to-use interface and straightforward design allowing for easy ad placements. It facilitates ads for international and local businesses, making it a great option for advertisers seeking to grow their businesses. The website is simple to use, and It has a number of different sections, like services and even real estate.
8. ClassifiedsGiant
In the United States, ClassifiedsGiant is one of the more popular platforms due to the extensive range of advertisement categories. It has segments for services, employment, real estate, and much more. The platform’s large user base and easy ad posting feature makes it one of the most popular sites for online classified ads.
9. Gumtree
Gumtree is a site known among users in the United Kingdom for offering a wide list of ads like Backpage. It is a popular site in the U.K offering a large category list covering everything from services to personal advertisements. It is a well known name in local advertising and is still a preferred site for many.
Conclusion
Indeed, Backpage Classifieds had its issues, but it also served people and companies effectively. When Backpage was shut down, many people were affected, but good thing, starbackpage, 2backpage, and obackpage have come to the market which are safer and easier to use. For providers who are looking to replace Backpage, these pages are great for reaching an audience and getting more visibility for the business. Service providers must look for the best alternatives, and Backpage’s positive and negative aspects will make it easier for them to interact with customers safely and grow their business effectively.
