Follow the 5 Second Rule

Often the key to a successful radio ad is to grab the listener’s attention within the first 5 seconds. Be interesting. Ears will be drawn to your ad if you do something different or unusual.

McDonalds aired a great campaign to promote their crispy chicken wrap.
In a fun and boisterous tone, the voice-over opens with a random selection of words.
‘Bubble wrap, trampoline, gadgets and gizmos, fire-trucks and gymnastics…..’

Within 5 seconds, we have been presented with 6 fun and interesting words with suitable sound effects. It’s an unusual start to the spot and our attention has been caught.

The very fact that the announcer is listing out the words in a fun way might encourage listeners to join in the next time enhancing recall and engagement.