Introduction

While CTV and OTT have gained attention for their premium, non-skippable ad experiences, they aren’t the only (or even the most widely used) video ad solutions. YouTube, pre-roll, and social media Reels offer powerful, clickable alternatives that drive engagement and conversions—giving marketers and business owners more ways to connect with their audience.

YouTube Advertising: Intent-Driven & Highly Engaging

YouTube remains one of the most powerful video advertising platforms, offering skippable and non-skippable in-stream ads, bumper ads, and discovery ads. Because users are actively searching for content, YouTube ads reach an engaged audience that’s already in a content-consumption mindset.

• Best For: Brands looking to capture high-intent users searching for specific content.
• Popular Demographics: Broad reach across age groups, with strong engagement from Millennials and Gen Z.
• Ideal Industries: E-commerce, education, entertainment, tech, and service-based businesses.

Pre-Roll Ads: High Visibility Across Premium Websites

Pre-roll ads appear before video content on publisher sites, news platforms, and streaming services, ensuring brand exposure across trusted environments. They can be skippable or non-skippable, and some include companion banners to reinforce the message.

• Best For: Businesses that want mass reach and brand safety.
• Popular Demographics: Varies based on publisher targeting; often appeals to professionals and older demographics consuming news or business content.
• Ideal Industries: Finance, healthcare, automotive, and B2B services.

Facebook & Instagram Reels: Short-Form, High-Engagement Content

Social media Reels on Facebook and Instagram offer an immersive, mobile-first experience where brands can deliver short, engaging video ads. These formats thrive on organic-style content that blends seamlessly with user-generated videos.

• Best For: Brands looking to engage younger audiences with creative, visually-driven storytelling.
• Popular Demographics: Strong appeal among Gen Z and Millennials, especially mobile users.
• Ideal Industries: Fashion, beauty, fitness, food, and lifestyle brands.

Conclusion: Clickability & Audience Targeting for a Smarter Video Strategy

Unlike CTV and OTT, these video ad formats allow for direct user action. When combined in an omnichannel approach, they offer the best of both worlds—high-impact video with measurable engagement.

The right mix depends on your goals: ✅ Want to capture intent-driven viewers? YouTube
✅ Need broad visibility across trusted sites? Pre-roll
✅ Looking for high engagement with younger audiences? Reels
✅ Want premium, non-skippable brand exposure? CTV & OTT

No matter your industry, incorporating a mix of video ads into your strategy can help build brand awareness and drive measurable results.

Get Started with a Custom Video Advertising Plan

Not sure where to begin? Every business has unique goals, audiences, and budgets—so a one-size-fits-all approach won’t cut it. Let’s develop a tailored video advertising strategy that works for you. Whether you’re looking for YouTube, pre-roll, social media Reels, or premium CTV and OTT placements, Vista Reach can help you craft the right mix to maximize your impact.

Interested in learning how this could work for your business?

Start by connecting with your local Vista Radio Account Executive — they can help guide the conversation and build a plan that fits your market.

You can also schedule an appointment directly with the Vista team here:
https://digital.vistaradio.ca/schedule-an-appointment/

And if you’re located in a market without a Vista Radio station, feel free to reach out to me and I’ll be happy to connect you with the right team.