Let’s face it—attention spans are short, and when it comes to YouTube ads, you’ve got about five seconds to grab someone’s interest before they hit that “Skip Ad” button. So how do you make the most of a 90-second YouTube commercial? It’s all about being clear, engaging, and quick to the point. Let’s break down the key elements that make a 90-second ad work.
1. Start with a Bang! (0-5 seconds)
Those first few seconds are critical. You need something bold, exciting, or downright intriguing to stop viewers from clicking away. Think of it like a headline. Whether it’s a surprising visual, a powerful question, or a quick teaser, you want people to sit up and take notice. If you’re not hooking them by second five, you might already be losing them.
2. Who Are You? Keep It Brief. (5-15 seconds)
Once you’ve got their attention, introduce yourself—quickly. If your brand or product is new to the viewer, give them just enough to understand what you’re about. But don’t spend too long here; they don’t need your life story. If you’re a well-known brand, you can sometimes even skip this step and dive straight into the good stuff.
3. What’s the Problem? (15-30 seconds)
Now, here’s where you connect with your audience. Think about what problem or challenge your viewers are facing. This part of the ad needs to make them think, “Oh yeah, that’s me. I totally have that problem.” Whether you’re selling a solution to clutter, time management, or even boredom, the key is to tap into something relatable.
4. Enter the Hero (30-60 seconds)
Now that you’ve outlined the problem, it’s time to be the hero. This is where you introduce your product or service as the solution. Show how it solves the problem, whether through a quick demo, before-and-after shots, or even customer testimonials. Be specific about the benefits—what makes your solution different or better? Keep it snappy and to the point.
5. Make It Clear What to Do Next (60-80 seconds)
Here’s where you close the deal. What do you want people to do after watching? Maybe it’s visiting your website, subscribing to your channel, or making a purchase. Whatever it is, make sure your call to action (CTA) is crystal clear. Don’t just say “Learn more”—tell them why they should click, sign up, or buy now. A little urgency or incentive (like a discount) never hurts.
6. Wrap It Up with a Lasting Impression (80-90 seconds)
Finish strong. This is the time to reinforce your brand—whether that’s with your logo, a catchy slogan, or a memorable visual. You want to leave your audience with a lasting impression so they remember you long after the video ends.
Bonus Tip: Make It Look and Sound Amazing
It should go without saying, but your visuals and sound need to be on point. Crisp images, professional audio, and a smooth pace can make all the difference. If your ad looks sloppy or sounds rough, viewers will tune out—even if your message is great.
Don’t Forget Emotion and Storytelling
People remember stories and emotions, not just facts. Even in a short 90-second ad, try to bring in a little storytelling. Whether it’s humor, empathy, or inspiration, connecting emotionally with your audience will help your ad stick.
So, there you have it. Crafting an effective 90-second YouTube ad is about being quick, clear, and engaging. Hook your viewers, solve a problem, and give them a reason to take action—and you’ll be well on your way to making a memorable, high-converting commercial.
Looking for a professional voice that will bring your project to life? Ed Bejarana has been providing top-notch voice-over services for businesses of all sizes across the United States. Whether it’s a commercial, explainer video, or audiobook, Ed’s expertise and versatile voice can make your message stand out. Call Ed at (208) 209-7170 or email info@edbejarana.com today to request a quote for your next voice-over project. Let’s make your vision a reality!
