WEEK 4: WRITING FOR RADIO COMMERCIALS Writing for Media
What is Advertising? Form of persuasive communication used to get the consumer to respond in a favorable manner, typically by making a purchase of your product or service
What is Advertising? Typically used to reach a mass audience Reach and frequency are key Though purpose is to persuade, informing can be an important role
Making Your Advertisements Effective Relevant Original Impactful
Advertising Principles Awareness/Attention Interest Desire Action
Advertising Principles Accuracy Persuasion Repetition Likability Features Tell, Benefits Sell
Considerations When Writing Commercials Demographics Age, gender, education, geographic location, race,/ethnicity, income, etc Family status Occupation Cultural & social characteristics/psychographics Norms/values Subcultures Social interests Memberships Attitudes, values, beliefs, interests, lifestyles Objective Hard sell vs. soft sell
Writing for Radio Goals to accomplish: Identify your business Make an offer, state a benefit and/or make a promise Provide adequate contact information No visuals – just words Pace Sound effects Music Jingles, slogans, other branding Timing critical Who is your voice?
Examples of Radio Commercials Men’s Wearhouse & Ford (:60 & :30): Great America (:30): Earth, Wind & Fire (:60): Pizza Shuttle (:60): Germanfest (:30): All City Communication (:60):