These are video or audio advertisements that are inserted within the middle of a piece of streamed content, such as a video, podcast, or live broadcast.
What are mid-roll ads?
Mid-roll ads are video or audio commercials strategically placed within the middle of streamed content. This content could be a video (on platforms like YouTube or social media), a podcast, or a live broadcast. Mid-roll ads offer a way to reach viewers or listeners actively engaged with the content.
Key differences from other ad formats
- Pre-roll ads: These play before the main content begins. They can be skipped after a certain amount of time.
- Mid-roll ads: These appear during the content, interrupting the flow of the ad. Viewers may be unable to skip them, depending on the platform and ad settings.
- Post-roll ads: These play after the main content has finished.
Benefits of using mid-roll ads
- Increased Engagement: By placing ads mid-stream, you capitalize on an audience already invested in the content, increasing attention and view-through rates.
- Precise Targeting: Many platforms allow targeting mid-roll ads based on the content being watched, user interests, demographics, and more.
- Enhanced Storytelling Opportunities: Mid-roll ads can continue a narrative started with a pre-roll ad or offer exclusive content to reward viewer engagement.
- Measurable Results: Track metrics like view-through rates, brand awareness, website traffic, and conversions to measure the direct impact of your mid-roll campaigns.
Best practices for effective mid-roll ads
- Keep it short and impactful: Respect the viewer's time and get your message across quickly.
- Make it relevant: Tailor your ads to the content and the audience for better resonance.
- Consider skippable vs. non-skippable: Non-skippable ads ensure viewing but can be disruptive. Skippable ads can improve user experience, but viewers might skip them.
- Optimize for mobile: Most video viewing happens on mobile devices, so design your ads accordingly.
Platforms supporting mid-roll ads
- Video streaming services: YouTube, Hulu, Vimeo, Twitch, etc.
- Social media: Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc.
- Podcast platforms: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and others.
Ready to get started? If you want to enhance your video or audio marketing strategy, contact us to discuss how mid-roll ads can help you achieve your business goals.