5 Key Practices for Engaging YouTube Ads

1. Study competitor ads: Analyze “Sponsored” content for CTAs, formats, and placement strategies.
2. Keep videos under 30 seconds: Hook viewers fast: “Struggling with [X]? I can help → link below.”
3. Film raw phone videos: Speak plainly to the camera; promote free resources (guides, trials) for trust.
4. Test multiple formats: Try demos, webinars, or 20–30 second intros offering instant value (e.g., “Free blueprint”).
5. Use tutorials as lead magnets: Offer in-depth educational content in exchange for contact details to nurture leads.

Some of my best YouTube ads have come straight from my phone—simple recordings explaining what I do, how I solve pain points, and how I help businesses get better results.

Hey there, I’m Brad Smith, owner of Automationlinks . I’ve been in marketing for 10 years and helped over 2500 businesses (I won’t bore you with the details).

Let’s dive in. Stick around until the end, and I’ll share my exact YouTube blueprint for setting up ads that generate leads and customers.

Study Existing YouTube Ads

Start by exploring YouTube on your phone or computer. Look for videos labeled “Sponsored,” “Watch Now,” or “Start Now.” For example, this sponsored ad directs users to a website without a video.

I prefer ads that include a video viewers can watch or click through to a site. Notice how recommendations appear alongside the video or links below it—use these features strategically.

Keep Videos Short and Focused

Aim for 30 seconds or less. This 23-second ad demonstrates software quickly—no fluff. Think: What can your business convey in under 30 seconds? Grab attention fast: “ Hey, if you’re struggling with [pain point], I’m [name] and I can help. Check the link below. ”

Use Your Phone for Authenticity

Film horizontal or vertical videos directly from your phone. No fancy equipment needed. Jump into the frame and address your audience plainly: “ This is who we are, here’s how we help, and here’s a free guide to learn more. ” This approach builds trust and grows your email list.

Effective Content Types for YouTube Ads

Test these formats:

• Product demos
• Webinars
• Guides/blueprints
• Direct sales pitches

The top performers? Quick intros that lead to a free resource. For example, a 29-second ad offering a free trial or demo.

Educational Content Builds Relationships

Consider longer educational videos (like this 25-minute tutorial). These act as lead magnets—viewers submit their info to access the content.

Treat these ads like regular YouTube videos:

1. Informative
2. Value-driven
3. Relationship-focused



Implementing Your YouTube Ad Strategy

1. Create a 20–30 second video (film on your phone).
2. Upload it to Google Ads.
3. Test educational vs. short-form content.

Ready to Start?

If this helped, subscribe, like, and share this content also try my playlist  . I'm going to continue every Friday posting how-to videos for YouTube ads so you can learn how to do these on your own.As Promised here is our free YouTube Blueprint  to launch ads that convert. Check the playlist above for more YouTube ad tips. Thanks for watching—see you next time!