5 Tips for Effective and Profitable YouTube Video Ads

Posted May 13, 2019

More than 85% of American internet users between the ages of 18 and 64 watch YouTube videos. In people 65 and older, it’s more than half.

Since the YouTube audience is basically…everyone, there’s a good chance your target customer is there too.

YouTube video ads can be an effective way to promote your business, but only if you have the right strategy.

Keep reading to learn 5 tips for creating effective ads that grow your business.

1. Choose the Right Format for YouTube Video Ads

YouTube offers six different types of ads that are tailored to display on specific platforms. For example, overlay ads and YouTube display ads only show up on desktop computers. Non-skippable video ads and bumper ads play on desktop and mobile devices.

Think about the devices your target customers use to watch videos and choose ad formats that fit those devices.

If your customers are busy parents on the go, they probably watch YouTube videos on their phone. If they are retired and spend more time at home, they might watch videos on a desktop computer.

The most effective digital marketing strategies meet the target customers where they are.

2. Target the Right Audience

Your YouTube video ad can only be effective if the right audience sees it.

Luckily, you can customize your audience when you launch an ad campaign on YouTube. You can target ads based on geographic locations, interests, age, gender, and more.

Think about who your customers are and target the ad with their characteristics in mind.

For example, if your business sells flooring in the Chicago area, you’d want to target YouTube viewers in northern Illinois who are interested in home improvement or interior design.

3. Stand Out from the Competition

Look at your competitors’ ads and add a twist or try something completely different. This can be especially effective if your business competitors run very similar ads.

Investing in a video that has higher-production value can also help you stand out, especially if your competitors run lower-quality video ads.

Potential customers will take notice of your brand because your ad looks and feels different from the rest. Customers might also think of your business as better quality because your video ad looks more professional.

4. Tell a Story

If you want people to remember your business, your ad should tell a story.

Stories are easier to remember than facts and data. That’s because your brain can’t really tell the difference between a story that you’re hearing and something that’s actually happening to you.

Think of a story your customer will relate to. What do they care about? What problems do they have? Then, show them how your business can help and how they can take action.

5. Keep it Simple

The best YouTube ads focus on one aspect of a business’ product or service. Offering too much information can overwhelm and even annoy viewers.

If your company is selling a new vacuum model, you can’t possibly describe all of the features in a 15-second ad. Instead, focus on one benefit like how easily it moves around corners.

Remember that the purpose of your ad is to spark interest in your business. If the ad has done its job, the consumer will remember your business name and what you offer.