We at Primer attended this year’s Make Ads That Convert event hosted by Motion and came back with fresh insights on what makes a top-performing ad today.

No surprises that AI was the top topic of conversation. AI is everywhere in the creative process. Just give it a few words and it’ll do magic. Static ads? With a good prompt, it’ll make a high-converting image in seconds… or create briefs or even edit videos… it has become key in the creative process of ad development—but it won’t replace the human behind a successful ad. As Alex Cooper said in the very beginning of his speech: “Creative strategists won’t be replaced by AI. They’ll be replaced by another creative strategist using AI better than them.”

For today’s blog, we are going to dive deeper into AI in the creative process: how to become great at research, how to scale your ads by using effective prompts, how to mix AI and UGC in an ad and much more. Let’s go!

Research: Old Way vs. New Way

Did you know that 90% of bad ads start with bad research?

This means a bad ad is not about a poor choice of footage or a terrible script. It’s something deeper: A bad ad is caused by not fully understanding what your product is, why it sells, what pain points it solves and more.

Before you start creating your ad, you need as much information as possible. Do your research, but not just on a surface level—go deeper.

Ask questions. Talk to the AI like you are a consumer. Go into Reddit and start looking for your brand, product and more. Spy on your competitors. Go through social media and read comments and try to find that good review that’s a golden nugget. All those steps are essential parts of the research that will become a high-converting ad.

This is what great research looks like. As you add all the tools to your Chrome extension or Slack, start asking questions and go deep in social media, you’ll have all this valuable information and crafting your ad will be easier. The key? A great prompt.

We now live in a prompt-first world, and the more exact your prompt to ChatGPT, Claude, or other LLMs is, the better results you’ll get. Knowing exactly what to ask makes the scaling process even faster and allows you to get tons of versions of a winning ad faster than ever.

Now, let’s see how prompting works.

Building Prompts Like a Pro

Writing a good prompt isn’t as easy as it looks.

The next time you ask ChatGPT for help, remember: It’s not enough to simply tell it what you want. You have to be specific.

And by specific, we mean really specific, down to every last detail.

In her session, Dara Denney walked us through the creative process. Early on, when you’re just mapping out your monthly ad roadmap, AI might not feel essential. But as you move into writing briefs and producing ads, you’ll quickly realize how AI becomes a powerful assistant. It’s not irreplaceable—but it helps you move faster and get better results.

Just like Jimmy Stagle and Alex Cooper mentioned in the first session, Dara emphasized the importance of digging into customer reviews to find those “golden nuggets”—language that truly reflects the voice of the customer.

Once you’ve found reviews that resonate, it’s time to start designing your prompt.

Here’s a beginner-friendly prompt structure Dara shared.

A strong prompt includes:

The persona, tone and brand voice
The task + an explanation of the objective of the task
Good examples of the task + why they are good
Bad examples of the task + why they are bad
Extra context
The output format you want

The better your inputs are, the better your results will be. That’s the greatest difference between crafting average ads and high-converting ones.

Here’s how a lazy prompt and a great one compare:

If you’re an intermediate prompt engineer right now, then you already know the correct use of ChatGPT. But are you using other AI? Have you tried Gemini, Claude, CustomGPTs?

Pit them against each other. If you get a result from Claude, paste it into ChatGPT, and say:

“Claude gave me this. Can you beat it?” It’s almost like a creative duel. For example, Claude often writes stronger long-form scripts, while ChatGPT usually gives better hooks and headlines. But when you mix Claude’s output into ChatGPT or vice versa, while raising the stakes, the results improve dramatically.

Now that you dominate the AI, here’s what you need to do next: Create a Prompt Library.

A Prompt library is a curated set of reusable prompts that you can add to over time.. This means video, static ads, customer reviews and more. You can craft a spreadsheet and even filter by industry or brand so whenever you’re working with the same brand or kind of client you’ll know how to move fast. This will not only save time, but will also get you great results from the start.

Prompting Best Practices

Here are some best practices to improve your prompting skills:

Tell the AI “Now rewrite this as if it’s version 10 after 9 rounds of expert feedback.”
At the end of your initial prompt, add in this sentence: “Before you give your response, what questions do you have that would help you give a better response?”
For each output, ask, “How could you improve that?” Keep asking this question over and over.
Once you’re happy with your final output, ask, “What would I have had to ask in my initial prompt to get to this output?”

Humanizing AI

Barry Hott is the creator of ugly ads, and in his session he spoke about humanizing AI.

He stated that relevance is everything when it comes to ads. Social algorithms define relevance by who pays attention and for how long. And relevance is also multidimensional: topic, format, cultural, platform… Even with diverse customers, a single piece of content can be relevant to each of them if it’s adapted to those mentioned dimensions.

Audiences have subconscious “content blockers,” meaning they instantly skip content that doesn’t feel immediately relevant. This gives you a great insight: People decide in the first frame whether something is for them. You need to blend in to stand out: Your ad needs to seem real.

Native Ads

Native content isn’t about format. It’s about relevance. It’s about understanding what your audience is actually consuming on social, not what you wish they were. Not what your mood board looks like. It’s not necessarily UGC—you can create native ads using AI too. Here’s a list of things you can do:

Low-resolution, vertical clips ripped from someone’s dashcam
Screenshots of tweets or TikToks dumped into Reels
Loud, clickbait-style captions in default IG/TT fonts
Security camera footage with zero polish
Clips from news, podcasts or even random nature content

A World of AI-Generated Content

Have you ever seen those fake drowning videos that look real for the first few seconds—until you realize it’s AI? They’re everywhere now. And they’re part of a growing genre: AI-generated, emotion-baiting content that dominates For You Pages across platforms.

In other words, AI is shaping content trends in real time. A year ago, this genre didn’t even exist. Today, it’s everywhere.

However, what these videos gain in virality, they often lose in something far more valuable: authenticity. As Barry Hott put it, “We’re heading into a world where authenticity becomes the most important creative currency you have.”

AI tools can help make content look authentic, but not feel real. And that’s the gap: AI can mimic human nuance, but it can’t replace it, at least any time soon.

That said, if you’re experimenting with AI-generated ads and want to push for more realism, Google’s latest tool, Veo 3, is worth exploring. It’s a big leap forward in visual quality—but even with these upgrades, authenticity is still a human edge.

AI, UGC and Infinite Message Testing

Did you know that 75% of Gen Z say they can tell when content feels fake?

Kelly Rocklein used this stat to reinforce the concept that Barry Hott also mentioned: Authenticity matters.

And consumers are most likely to trust a recommendation from another customer, expert or founder.

With this in mind, it’s important to say that social proof still matters. And that you can create AI UGC content that feels authentic.

The key to creating that kind of content is that, in the end, it’s not just about using AI. It’s about how to use it in your work.

So, what’s working now? Well, AI-generated UGC performs well in top-of-funnel ads for cold audiences. This means that viewers either can’t tell it’s AI or don’t mind that it is. Another thing that’s working well right now is straightforward explainer videos and product demos that can be easily generated with AI. This idea is great if you want to scale your product in different countries and need ads in different languages.

It’s important to keep in mind that AI won’t replace humans yet. There are certain actions that still need to be made by humans–especially for emotional depth. That’s where agencies like ourselves at Primer come into play. We combine the human touch and emotional depth with the best-in-class AI tools to produce Ad Creative that performs at scale. Reach out to us directly here if you want to learn how we do this.

AI-Powered Creative Strategy

AI-powered algorithms now train directly from every asset you upload. They scan your asset and already know everything about your brand and your product and then decide where and when to show it. That’s why you need creative diversity.

Concepts, hooks, personas, formats and execution styles must be different enough for the algorithm to identify them as different.

A concept is a combination of who your buyers are, why they buy and what they buy. Now, that concept can be executed in different ways: images, carousels, videos, UGC, hi-fi polished video and so much more.

Here is how creative diversification works. It helps you to achieve diversity, volume and velocity at the same time:

But what does AI have to do with this? Mirella Crespi explained that she uses this method combined with AI to test more diverse ads. It also reduces your production cycle.

Here are some ways you can use AI in your ads:

Blending AI + UGC: Whether you’re using AI avatars mixed with UGC B-rolls or just AI to generate B-rolls, this is a great way to implement AI in your ads.
Augmented reality: Remember that time when there were big lipsticks and bags everywhere online? That’s it. They are really strong scroll-stoppers.
Elevating hooks: Crop something in the middle, transform UGC with a filter… just get messy with this and get visual scroll-stoppers that catch the eye instantly.
Creating b-roll product demos from images: Share the original footage with AI and ask for variations in color, patterns and more.

Again, remember that AI can do a lot of things, but there is some stuff it can’t do yet. Train your AI so it can improve its results, but keep in mind that it won’t replace UGC creators and actors–yet.

The Future of Advertising

With the evolution in AI, the bar has been raised. Lazy creative won’t get you results. Iterating on the same hook or slightly tweaking your captions won’t unlock new audiences anymore. What will? Big, structured ideas. Clear personas. Bold creative diversity. And yes, strategic use of AI.

If you want to win in today’s ad environment, you can’t rely on old formulas. You have to be faster, smarter and more dynamic than ever before. That’s where AI comes in, not as a replacement, but as a partner. A creative accelerator that helps you move with more speed, more volume and more precision.

But here’s the catch: AI can only amplify what you give it. If your research is weak, your prompt vague or your idea unclear, your AI-generated creative will reflect that. On the flip side, if your strategy is clear and your prompts sharp, you’ll generate high-converting assets in less time, with less guesswork.

The marketers who will thrive aren’t just using AI. They’re mastering it. Training it. Testing it. Challenging it.

Remember that the creative strategist of the future isn’t going to be replaced by AI. They’ll be replaced by another creative strategist who knows how to use AI better than them.

Why Primer
At Primer, we’re not just keeping up with the AI wave — we’re shaping how it works for ambitious brands. As a hyper-specialized growth marketing agency, we blend cutting-edge AI tools with human insight to create ads that resonate. We believe creativity still needs context. Data still needs interpretation. And strategy still needs storytellers. That’s why our process always puts people first, with AI as the accelerator — not the engine.

Let’s Talk
If you’re ready to scale faster with bold creative, sharp strategy, and the smart use of AI, let’s connect. Whether you’re refining a winning funnel or rebuilding from the ground up, Primer can help you break through. Reach out — we’d love to show you how we do it.

Marketers aren’t fighting for attention; they’re fighting for emotional connection.
In a world where every scroll is a decision and every second counts, it’s important to say the right thing and engage from the beginning.

That’s why the best-performing ads aren’t just clever.
They’re emotionally charged.
They speak directly to the viewer. And often, all it takes is one power word to flip the switch.

Power words are persuasive, high-impact words that trigger an emotional or psychological response.
They spark curiosity. They create urgency. They make people feel understood, excited, even obsessed—and most importantly, they make people act.

You don’t need to be a seasoned copywriter to use them.
Even one of these words—dropped into a script, headline or CTA—can turn passive viewers into engaged customers.

In this post, we’re breaking down the exact categories of power words we use in ad scripts that convert, plus examples you can plug straight into your next campaign.

Let’s get into it.

🔥 Urgency/Scarcity

Limited
Today only
Last chance
Hurry
Ends soon
Now
Deadline
Don’t miss out
Final hours
Almost gone
Only X left
While supplies last
Selling fast
Clock’s ticking

➡️ Great for: retargeting. Use these words for flash sales, countdown offers, abandoned cart emails.

💥 Emotional Triggers

Love
Hate
Fear
Crave
Imagine
Obsessed
Shocked
Can’t live without
Game-changer
Mind-blowing
Regret
Addicted
Must-have
Impressed
Controversial

➡️ Great for: high-engagement hooks, storytelling ads, lifestyle brands.

💎 Value-Driven

Free
Exclusive
VIP
Bonus
Save
Limited-time offer
Instant access
No-brainer
Get more
Extra
Special deal
Just for you
Bargain

➡️ Great for: subscription services, lead gen, product launches.

🧠 Curiosity & Intrigue

Secret
Insider
Hidden
Discover
Uncover
Revealed
Psssst… attention
Little-known
What no one tells you
The truth about
Sneak peek
Guess what
You won’t believe
Do you know…?

➡️ Great for: lead magnets, blog ads, native content promotions.

💪 Confidence & Trust

Unknown
Insider
Hidden
Discover
Uncover
Revealed
Little-known
What no one tells you
The truth about
Research-based
Approved
Safe
Secure
Industry-standard
Let’s be honest…

➡️ Great for: conversion-focused copy, testimonials, long-form ads.

Power Words in Action

Let’s look at how brands are using power words to drive clicks, build trust and boost conversions—without sounding salesy.

This ad kicks off with a controversial opinion, which instantly grabs attention.
It sparks curiosity: “Who would say that?” “How could that be true?”.

This brand taps directly into both curiosity and emotion, using power words and tone to keep viewers watching.

Similarly, this one starts with a refreshingly honest opinion, which immediately builds credibility.
It feels raw, real and unscripted. That honesty, paired with subtle power words, helps customers drop their guard and lean in.

Why Power Words Work

Power words aren’t just trendy—they’re rooted in how our brains work.

They tap into emotions, primal instincts and cognitive shortcuts that help us make decisions faster. When someone hears “exclusive,” their brain registers status. When they see “ends soon,” they feel urgency. When they read “secret,” they’re hooked by curiosity.

And when these triggers are used intentionally—in headlines, scripts or CTAs—they quiet the noise and make your message the one that lands.

You don’t need more words. You just need the right ones.

Try swapping 2–3 bland words in your next ad with power words from this list.
Test the difference.
Then do it again.

Words have power. Use them to convert.

Partner with Creative Experts

At Primer, we don’t just talk about power words—we use them every day to write high-performing ads that stop thumbs and spark action. From brands like Jocko Fuel to Sunday and Rocksbox, we help teams concept and write UGC ad scripts that feel real, convert fast and hit emotionally. Whether you need hooks that hook harder, CTAs that convert or full-funnel copy that actually sells—we’ve got you.

Your Growth Marketing Team: Partnering with Primer means we take care of everything—strategy and planning, production, reporting and optional media buying—to achieve your growth objectives. You can focus on your business while we deliver the results.

Creative On Demand: Access a subscription-based marketing creative platform to request UGC, videos, images and landing pages crafted by top marketing creative strategists and designers who understand what drives conversions.

Get in touch today »

You never get a second chance to make a first impression. That quote from Will Rogers hits especially hard when you’re running ads on Reddit.

Reddit isn’t like other platforms. It’s not polished like Instagram, fast like TikTok or aspirational like Pinterest. It’s real, raw and fiercely community-driven. That means your creative can’t feel like an ad. It needs to feel like it belongs.

Too many brands focus only on media buying and targeting—and forget that what matters most is how their ad looks, sounds and feels in the feed. This blog breaks down how to tailor your creative for Reddit, with best practices that help your Promoted Posts stand out without standing out too much.

TL;DR: Reddit is brutally honest. If your ad feels out of place, users will ignore—or mock—it. To win here, you need creative that blends in with the community, speaks their language and earns attention with authenticity.

Let’s dive into what makes Reddit ad creative work—and what will get you downvoted fast.

Why You Should Advertise on Reddit

Reddit has over 500 million monthly visitors and some of the most actively engaged communities on the internet. But unlike other platforms, Reddit isn’t a place where users passively scroll—it’s where people go deep. They research purchases, ask real questions and seek out honest opinions. That creates a huge opportunity for brands that are willing to meet them there with relevant, respectful and native-feeling ad creative.

Here’s what makes Reddit especially valuable from a creative standpoint:

Context-rich targeting: You can reach users based on specific interests, subreddits and conversations—so your creative doesn’t have to be generic.
Low competition, high intent: Many brands still underestimate Reddit. That means more space for standout creative and lower CPMs compared to platforms like Meta or Google.
Brutal feedback = creative gold: Redditors won’t hesitate to call out lazy ads, which makes it the perfect platform to test authenticity, tone and creative alignment in real time.
Fewer bots, more real people: Because Reddit is heavily moderated, there’s less spam and bot activity than on other platforms. That makes feedback and engagement more honest—and more useful for refining your message.

If your brand values creative testing, audience alignment and staying ahead of the curve, Reddit should be part of your paid media mix.

Plus, if you want to talk about numbers… Reddit also offers a cost advantage that’s hard to ignore. Because it’s still underutilized by many brands, CPMs and CPCs tend to be lower than on Meta, TikTok or YouTube. That means you can test more creative angles and messaging without blowing your budget.

What Kind of Ads Can You Run on Reddit?

Reddit gives you several flexible ad formats to work with, which means you can tailor your creative to more naturally match the user experience. The main formats include:

Image ads: A single static image paired with a headline. Great for simple value props, product visuals or meme-style hooks that blend into the feed.
Carousel ads: Multiple images users can swipe through. Ideal for storytelling, showing product benefits or comparing features.
Video ads: Short-form video that auto-plays with sound off. Use this to demo a product, show reactions or repurpose UGC in a way that feels organic.
Text + link ads (free-form): This looks like a Reddit post, with text, links or embedded media. It’s perfect for a more native feel—think explainer copy, testimonials or conversation starters.

Each format has its strengths, but they all share one rule: Don’t look like an ad. Whether you’re running a product carousel or a short video, your creative should match the tone and style of the subreddit you’re targeting.

Now that you know which ads you can run on Reddit, let’s check out some creative best practices. Because yes, Reddit is different from the other platforms—so your ads need to be tailored for it.

#1 Build for Reddit

Here’s something that shouldn’t surprise you: Most Redditors are scrolling on their phones. In fact, 75% of global users access Reddit via mobile. So if your creative isn’t optimized for mobile, you’re missing the mark before your ad even loads.

But a mobile-first approach isn’t just about shrinking your desktop designs. It’s about using your creative real estate strategically—from size to subtitles—to deliver a seamless, scroll-stopping experience.

Here’s how to get it right:

📐 1. Use the Right Aspect Ratio

If you want to take up more screen space (and get more attention), go for a 4:5 aspect ratio for your videos and images. It’s the sweet spot for mobile real estate—and Reddit research found that 4:5 video can lower 28-day CPA by 54%.
That said, 1:1 can still work great for image ads, so don’t be afraid to test both formats depending on your message.

✍️ 2. Include Text Overlays

🎥Redditors don’t mind reading – but don’t make them work too hard. Don’t be afraid to use text in your ads, but do it with text overlays added to images and videos, not long blocks of text. Overlays can help you get your point across quickly, especially in fast-moving feeds. Bold headlines, tight copy and meme-style formatting are some ideas for your creatives.

🔇 3. Add Closed Captions

Reddit is a sound-off platform by default. Most users scroll in silence, so if your video relies on voiceover alone, it might go completely unheard. Adding closed captions makes sure your message still lands.

TL;DR:
Mobile-first isn’t optional on Reddit. Use 4:5 formats, clear text overlays and closed captions to make sure your creative works with the platform—not against it.

#2 Be a Brand

Unlike other platforms, Reddit actually wants you to be a brand. Just don’t pretend you’re not one.

Redditors are smart—and they value honesty. So if your creative tries to blend in by being too native or too informal, it can backfire. Instead, lean into being a brand with confidence, and do it with transparency and authenticity. The brands that perform best on Reddit show up clearly and consistently, without over-polishing or over-selling.

Here’s how to brand your Reddit creative the right way:

🏷️ 1. Brand Name

Make sure your brand name is visible early. This isn’t the place for bait-and-switch storytelling or clickbait hooks. Reddit users appreciate when they know upfront who is talking to them.

🔲 2. Logo Placement

The top left corner is your golden spot for static image logos. According to Reddit, placing your logo here drives 2.4x more positive brand awareness outcomes than hiding it or skipping it entirely. For video, you’ve got more freedom: Test watermarks, early logo reveals or branded intros—but always try to show your branding within the first 3 seconds.

🎨 3. Aesthetics

Don’t overdo the polish. Reddit isn’t Instagram. Match your aesthetic to the subreddit. Lo-fi, real, even meme-adjacent design can work brilliantly—so long as it still feels intentional and on brand.

TL;DR:
You don’t need to hide the fact that you’re a brand. Reddit users expect honesty. Use smart logo placement, authentic tone and subtle branding to build trust and drive better performance.

#3 Show & Tell

We’ve talked about showing up as a brand, but now let’s dive into how to really tell your brand’s story to Redditors.

✂️ 1. Keep Headlines Brief

Even though you can go up to 300 characters for your headline, shorter is sweeter for in-feed posts. Headlines over 150 characters tend to reduce campaign impact and efficiency. So keep your headline punchy, then let your creative assets fill in the rest of the story.

PRO TIP: if you use Reddit native slang, that’s a blast.

🎥 2. Experiment with Longer Video

When it comes to Promoted Videos, you don’t have to stick to the 15-second rule. In fact, longer videos (up to 60 seconds) can be super effective, especially when you’re telling a compelling brand story or showing product benefits. However, be mindful that videos longer than 60 seconds might not perform as well for lower-funnel goals like mobile installs, so experiment to find your sweet spot.

🛍️ 3. Show Your Product

Redditors want to see how your product works—not just hear about it. Whether you’re showing how it’s used, explaining the benefits or simply making the case for why it’s a must-have, showing is far more powerful than just telling.

Videos that demonstrate how a product is consumed or used can shift attitudes and boost purchase intent.

💡 4. Experiment with Deal Messaging

Don’t forget to capture attention with limited-time offers, discounts or exclusive deals. Redditors love a good bargain, and adding deal messaging to your headline or assets can create a sense of urgency—and get your audience to take action.

TL;DR:
Keep your headline short, try out longer videos for storytelling, always show your product in action and don’t hesitate to experiment with deals.

#4 Be Native

Demonstrate your knowledge of Reddit with callouts to specific subreddits, users or themes. Redditors love recognition (especially karma)—so acknowledge them with words, imagery and nods to the platform.

The best way to do it? Incorporate redditisms—acronyms often used by the community, like these ones:.

TIL	Today I Learned
ICYMI	In Case You Missed It
IYKYK	If You Know, You Know
TL;DR	Too Long, Didn’t Read
AMA	Ask Me Anything
AMAA	Ask Me Almost Anything
IMO	In My Opinion
PSA	Public Service Announcement

Using these acronyms in your headline will definitely catch Redditors’ attention.

#5 Be Prescriptive

Don’t forget to be clear when it comes to taking the next step. You’ve captured attention, sparked interest and maybe even a laugh—but now what? Without a clear what’s next, even the best ad can fall flat.

This is where your Call to Action (CTA) does the heavy lifting.

📣 1. Always Add a CTA

Whether it’s “Shop the collection,” “Install the app” or “Get your discount,” a clear CTA helps connect the dots between your message and the action you want people to take.

Your CTA can go in your headline, your creative or both. Think of it as your final nudge—an invitation to keep engaging.

🎯 2. Match Your CTA to Your Goal

Make sure your CTA lines up with your campaign objective.

Launching a new product? Try: “Explore the collection.”
Driving installs? Try: “Download now.”
Capturing leads? Try: “Sign up for early access.”
Running a promo? Try: “Use code for 15% off.”

🎞️ 3. Reinforce It in Your Video

If you’re running Promoted Videos, include your CTA in the video itself, not just in the caption. Why? Because ads that visually reinforce the CTA drive 1.4x higher lift in brand attribution, according to Reddit research. That’s a simple tweak with a big impact.

A good CTA isn’t pushy—it’s clear, helpful and respectful of your audience’s time and attention. And on a platform that values honesty and transparency, that goes a long way.

TL;DR:

Don’t leave people guessing. Give them a clear next step (or CTA) that aligns with your goal and reinforce it in your creative for maximum results.

TIL How to Advertise on Reddit

Now you know: Advertising here isn’t about blasting polished ads into the void. It’s about joining the conversation, being real and giving people something worth stopping their scroll.

From building mobile-first creatives to showing up as a brand (without pretending not to be one), Reddit rewards advertisers who respect the platform’s tone and values.

So, what’s your next move?
✅ Make your ad feel native
✅ Be honest and direct
✅ Tell a good story
✅ Show your product
✅ And always guide users with a clear CTA

Whether you’re launching a product, promoting a deal or just testing the waters, remember: Redditors are smart—and they reward brands that act like it.

Partner with Growth Experts

At Primer, we create high-performing ads that stop thumbs and spark action. From brands like Jocko Fuel to Sunday and Rocksbox, we help teams concept and write UGC ad scripts that feel real, convert fast and hit emotionally. Whether you need hooks that hook harder, CTAs that convert or full-funnel copy that actually sells—we’ve got you.

Your Growth Marketing Team: Partnering with Primer means we take care of everything—strategy and planning, production, reporting, and optional media buying—to achieve your growth objectives. You can focus on your business while we deliver the results.

Get in touch today »

If you’re running the same ad across every platform, you’re doing it wrong. TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Reddit aren’t interchangeable—they each have their own audience behaviors, content styles, and rules of engagement. A video that crushes it on Instagram might flop on TikTok. A Reddit post that sparks discussion might fall flat on YouTube.

One-size-fits-all doesn’t work anymore. If you want better results without burning through your ad budget, you need to tailor your creative, format, and messaging to match each platform’s ecosystem.

In this guide, we’ll break down what works (and what doesn’t) across TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Reddit—so your ads get seen, clicked, and convert.

What Happens When You Copy-Paste Your Ads

Here’s what actually happens when you copy-paste creative across platforms:

Your click-through rate (CTR) tanks—often dropping by 30–60% compared to platform-native creatives.
Cost-per-click (CPC) rises, as algorithms deprioritize low-engagement content.
Engagement rates plummet, especially when users recognize your ad as “out of place.”
And worst of all, your return on ad spend (ROAS) drops, because you’re paying more to reach users who don’t care.

One-size-fits-all ads don’t convert. TikTok users expect authenticity and fast hooks. Instagram rewards polish and visual storytelling. YouTube gives you room to dive deep, but only if you earn attention in the first six seconds. Reddit? If your ad feels like an ad, you’re done.

Today, we’re going platform by platform to show you how to tailor your ads for real results.

TikTok: Speed, Authenticity, And Native Energy

TikTok isn’t built for polished, overproduced ads. It’s a platform built on trends, sounds, fast scrolls, and realness. Your creative needs to feel like content, not a commercial.

Here’s how to win on TikTok:

Hook within the first 1–2 seconds. TikTok users scroll fast. If your ad doesn’t immediately capture attention with movement, text, or intrigue, it’s getting skipped.
Use platform-native editing styles. Vertical video. On-screen captions. Green screen. Jump cuts. Trendy audio. TikTok has its own language—speak it or get ignored.
Keep it short and tight. Even though TikTok allows up to 60 seconds, the sweet spot is 9–15 seconds. Get in, get your point across, and get out.
It looks like UGC. User-generated content outperforms polished brand spots. Use real people, phone-shot content, and unscripted energy.
Trending audio is your friend. Use popular sounds strategically. TikTok’s algorithm rewards content that feels like it belongs on the For You Page.
Don’t forget your CTA. Even casual TikTok users respond well to direct calls-to-action, especially if it feels native: “Check this out,” “Tap the link,” “You have to try this.”

Formats like “POV” videos and comment box replies are some of the most native, scroll-stopping tools you can use on TikTok. They instantly make your ad feel like part of the feed instead of an interruption.

Comment boxes are simple and native, and will keep users engaged (because yes, they drive attention not only to the creative itself, but also to the comment section, so your video view time will increase). Let’s check some examples:

Instagram: Storytelling That Sells

Instagram might live under the same Meta roof as Facebook, but the way users interact with content here is totally different. It’s a place where people expect aesthetics, storytelling, and a curated vibe. That doesn’t mean your ad has to be high-budget, but it does need to look intentional.

Unlike TikTok, where raw and messy can win, Instagram rewards a little more visual polish and narrative structure. If your creative doesn’t look good or feel like it belongs in someone’s feed or stories, it’s getting scrolled past.

It’s about ✨being aesthetic✨ at some point. Your ad doesn’t have to look like an ad, but it has to match a certain aesthetic.

How to make your ads work on Instagram:

Prioritize high-quality visuals. Bright, clean, well-composed images and videos consistently perform better. Even UGC should be thoughtfully framed.
Use Reels and Stories—don’t just rely on static feed posts. Reels are Instagram’s fastest-growing format, and Stories allow you to stay top-of-mind without overwhelming.
Text matters. Many users scroll with sound off, so use captions, subtitles, or short on-screen text to deliver your message quickly.
Lean into narrative. Instagram loves mini-stories—before & after transformations, problem/solution setups, and “here’s what happened” formats.
Add interactive elements in Stories. Polls, sliders, and questions increase engagement and help lower CPM.

Instagram is less about shock-and-scroll and more about stopping users with beauty, relatability, or emotion. You want your ad to feel like something someone would save, share, or screenshot—not just swipe past.

Bonus: Instagram is also a testing playground.

Because Instagram’s feed, Reels, and Stories all offer different placements, you can test creative formats without leaving the platform. Use this to your advantage—sometimes the same message just needs a new layout to land.

This example features high-quality footage paired with testimonials. The use of emojis is key to making the ad feel native.

YouTube: Storytelling, Credibility, And The Power of The First 5 Seconds

YouTube is where people go to watch, not scroll. That gives you more time to tell a story, explain a product, or build trust. But there’s a catch: you have 6 seconds before viewers can hit “Skip.” If you don’t hook them immediately, everything that comes after doesn’t matter.

Unlike TikTok or Instagram, YouTube users are more open to longer content, as long as it’s relevant, informative, or entertaining. This makes it a great fit for brands that need a little more room to explain what they do, especially in science, health, tech, or education.

YouTube ad tips that actually work:

Open strong. Lead with tension, a bold statement, a surprising visual, or a question that makes the viewer want to stick around.
Tell a story. Structure matters. Start with the problem, then build toward your solution. Even product-focused ads can feel like mini-documentaries or testimonials.
Educate or entertain. Don’t just sell, teach. If you’re in a technical field, simplify the message and deliver value fast. Remember that DIY and tutorials are still the number one content on YouTube.
Use subtitles. Not everyone watches with sound, especially on mobile. Clean, easy-to-read captions keep people engaged. Bonus points if your subtitles are engaging with the use of memes or emojis.
YouTube Shorts? Different game. If you’re using Shorts, go back to a TikTok-style strategy: fast hooks, trends, and native vibes.

On YouTube, people give you their attention only if you earn it. That means no fluff, no generic hooks, and no trying to “go viral.” Focus on clarity, story, and trust and you’ll convert more than just views.

Here is an example:

Keep in mind that the ideal length for YouTube ads is between 30 seconds and 1 minute. This video runs just under a minute and presents three common myths about supplements in an engaging way. It’s informative and holds attention, positioning a specific supplement as the solution that challenges each of the myths mentioned.

This one example, although it’s very fast-paced, is great for YouTube since it seems pretty native by showing a tutorial.

Reddit: TIL, AMA and More.

Reddit is a different beast. It’s not about flashy visuals or viral sounds—it’s about value, honesty, and context. Users here are highly skeptical of anything that smells like a traditional ad, and they won’t hesitate to call it out. If your content feels out of place, it’ll get downvoted, ignored, or torn apart in the comments.

But when it’s done right? Reddit ads can spark real conversations, drive thoughtful engagement, and generate qualified traffic, especially if you’re targeting niche communities.

Hear us out: if you’re not advertising on Reddit yet, you’re leaving a serious opportunity on the table. Cost-per-click (CPC) is often significantly lower than Meta and TikTok, and the platform is a goldmine for brands in tech, gaming, wellness, finance, and other passion-driven niches. Reddit isn’t for everyone, but if your audience is there, the potential ROI is huge.

How to survive (and thrive) with Reddit ads:

Look like a post, not an ad. The most effective Reddit ads mimic organic posts; longer copy, casual tone, no hard sell. Think of it as joining a discussion, not making a pitch.
Use subreddit targeting. Don’t just blast your ad sitewide—zero in on specific communities where your product solves a relevant problem.
Add value first. Lead with insights, tips, or a personal story. Then introduce your product as the natural solution.
Be transparent. It’s okay to say “I work with this brand” or “We made this”—Redditors appreciate honesty over slick marketing.
Test with text-based ads. Visuals can work, but long-form text posts that read like genuine contributions often perform better.
Use Reddit formats. From free-form ads to AMA (ask me anything), there are plenty of things you can do to make your ad look native. Try starting with AMA or TIL (Today I learned) in your ads to catch attention from the beginning.

Let’s check out this example: although it’s originally Twitter-native, the format translates well to Reddit. Why? Because it leans on the same strengths—text-driven storytelling, a casual tone, and content that sparks discussion. It doesn’t feel like an ad, it feels like someone sharing an insight or starting a conversation—and that’s exactly the kind of content Reddit users engage with.

Final Thoughts: Tailor or Tank

Spraying the same ad across every platform isn’t just lazy—it’s expensive. Audiences on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Reddit don’t just want different content—they expect it. And when your ads don’t meet those expectations, you lose clicks, waste budget, and miss real opportunities to connect.

The fix? Tailor your creative to the platform.

On TikTok, be quick, raw, and trend-savvy.
On Instagram, lead with visuals and narrative polish.
On YouTube, earn attention with storytelling and depth.
On Reddit, ditch the pitch and speak like a real person.

The truth is, you don’t need bigger budgets or viral stunts. You just need to respect the format, the culture, and the audience. Once you do that, performance improves, and wasted ad spend disappears.

Tailor Your Ads With Primer

We now offer an on-demand service that helps you concept, plan, source, and produce UGC video ads that resonate with your audience and drive results. Let us bring your brand’s vision to life with authentic, high-performing content.

Creative On-Demand: Access a subscription-based marketing creative platform to request UGC, videos, images, and landing pages crafted by top marketing creative strategists and designers who understand what drives conversions.

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Every second, countless ads compete for attention on social feeds—but most never get noticed. People scroll fast, skipping anything that doesn’t instantly catch their eye. That’s why a strong visual hook is essential. It’s the first thing your audience sees, and in just a few seconds, it determines whether they stay or scroll away.

Today, we’ll dive into some of the most effective visual hooks that are driving sales like crazy. From search bar animations to sensory hooks that make you feel the product, these techniques are trending for a reason. Get ready to discover simple but powerful ways to make your ads impossible to ignore.

What’s a Visual Hook?

A visual hook is the first thing people notice in your ad.

Whether it’s a bold animation, a close-up of something satisfying, or a question that sparks curiosity, your hook has to be immediate, engaging, and irresistible.

Why? Because attention spans are shorter than ever. You have less than three seconds to stop someone from scrolling—so your hook needs to deliver instant impact.

Some visual hooks have been trending because they’re simply too good to ignore. Think about it—when you see a search bar pop up with a question you’ve asked before, or a slow-motion shot of melted chocolate dripping, your brain locks in. That’s what a great hook does: it creates curiosity, emotion, or desire in just seconds.

And here’s the secret: the best hooks don’t just grab attention—they set the tone for the entire ad. A strong hook makes people want to keep watching, which means more engagement, better retention, and ultimately, higher conversions.

Now, let’s get deeper into these hooks.

Hook #1: Post-It Notes

Simple, easy, and incredibly effective. This hook is trending right now—and for good reason.

With just a Post-It note, you can instantly grab attention and create curiosity. Whether it’s revealing a surprising message, covering and uncovering text, or using it as a creative transition, this low-effort hook delivers high-impact results. It works especially well for product reveals, quick tips, and “before and after” transformations.

The best part? It feels organic, making it perfect for platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels, where native-style content performs best.

Here are two ideas for you to implement this hook—but the good news is, there are endless ways to use Post-It notes to improve engagement.

The Reveal Trick – Write a question or statement on a Post-It (e.g., “The secret to clear skin?”). Then peel it away to reveal the answer underneath—your product, a surprising fact, or a call to action.
The Step-by-Step Guide – Use multiple Post-Its to break down a process or highlight key benefits of your product. This works great for educational content, testimonials, or product comparisons.

As said before, there are endless ways to use this hook. Now it’s time to use your imagination.

Hook #2: Search Bar

If you want to tap into instant curiosity, then this is for you.

This hook works by showing a search bar with a common problem or question, like “Best supplements for energy?” or “How to get rid of acne fast”—then revealing your product as the answer. It’s a simple yet powerful way to position your brand as the solution people are already looking for.

It’s effective because it mirrors how people naturally seek information. When they see a search query that reflects their own concerns, they’re more likely to stop, watch, and engage with the ad. It also works across multiple platforms, from TikTok and Instagram to YouTube Shorts.

💡 PRO TIP: We highly recommend checking out real Google searches to find actual questions people are asking. You can also explore Reddit and Quora to see what topics are trending in your industry. Using real, popular search terms will make your hook even more relatable and effective.

Hook #3: Sensory Hook

This kind of hook goes beyond just visual appeal; it engages multiple senses to create a more immersive experience for the viewer.

It works because high-quality, close-up visuals trigger a sensory reaction. Think of melting chocolate, a juicy burger, or a slow-motion pour of syrup—these visuals are irresistible because they engage the senses, making viewers almost “taste” the experience through the screen. It’s all about the feeling.

This technique is widely used in food, beverage, and even beauty ads (like glossy lipstick swatches or creamy skincare textures). The key is lighting, slow motion, and ultra-close-up details that make the product look as desirable as possible.

Let’s check this example. The hook is as simple as pouring hot chocolate into a mug and capturing a close-up. As you watch the video, you can almost feel the warmth and richness of the chocolate, instantly creating the desire to have that product in your own home.

Hook #4: Jump Cut

A Jump Cut is a rapid editing technique where scenes change abruptly to keep the viewer engaged. This style works because it eliminates pauses, making the content feel fast, energetic, and dynamic—which is perfect for grabbing attention in a crowded feed.

This hook is commonly used in fitness, energy drinks, and high-performance brands because it conveys speed, intensity, and action. Instead of a slow buildup, jump cuts throw you straight into the action, keeping viewers locked in.

Here is how to use it:

Fast Scene Changes: cut between different angles or actions quickly. Example: someone opening a can, taking a sip, and instantly jumping into an intense workout.
Text + Sound Effects: pair jump cuts with punchy text overlays or sound effects to enhance impact.
Before & After Contrast: show a tired person -> cut to them drinking the product -> cut to them crushing a workout.

🎶 PRO TIP: Music matters! It should mirror the visual pace, with sharp, impactful transitions that align with each cut. Make it fast, energizing, and impactful.

Hook #5: Curiosity Hook

A Curiosity hook plays on our natural desire to uncover hidden information. It teases something intriguing—whether it’s a secret, a shocking truth, or an unexpected insight—compelling the viewer to keep watching. This hook works because it creates an open loop, meaning the brain feels the need to fill in the missing information. The only way to do that? Keep watching.

This technique is especially effective in finance, beauty, fitness, and e-commerce ads—any industry where a “secret” or insider tip can shift buyer perception. By leading with curiosity and backing it up with a compelling reveal, you create an ad that not only grabs attention but also drives engagement, shares, and conversions.

Want to know how it works? Check it out:

One example of this hook in action is the phrase: “I know something big companies don’t want you to know.” This immediately sparks interest because it suggests exclusive, insider knowledge that the viewer doesn’t have yet.

In terms of visuals, imagine a black-and-white close-up of a sneaker, with a big red “X” over it. The contrast instantly signals something is wrong, making viewers stop and question what’s happening. The mystery keeps people watching, waiting for the reveal.

Hook #6: Shock Factor

Have you ever seen an ad and thought “What are they doing?”. And you kept watching because you were too intrigued and wanted to know what happened next.

Well, that’s exactly how the Shock Factor hook works. It utilizes an unexpected visual or statement that captures attention and provokes an emotional response from the audience. Its primary goal is to surprise or intrigue viewers, prompting them to reconsider their perceptions and engage more deeply with the content.

This type of hook shows something unexpected or seemingly impossible—like stepping on a bed while holding a full glass of wine without spilling it. It immediately makes people think, “Wait… how is that possible?”, keeping them engaged to see the result.

Why does this hook work?

First, because it generates instant curiosity: viewers want to see if the demo succeeds or fails. And it proves a key benefit by showing it. Plus, if the hook is extremely good, it makes the creative highly shareable –yes, people want to share something surprising to their peers.

Here is it in action:

Hook #7: Comment Box

This is the most native hook of all.

Using a Comment Box is one of the most natural and effective ways to make your ad blend seamlessly into social media feeds.

This hook works by mimicking the look and feel of an actual social media comment, making the ad feel like a real conversation rather than a promotional post. Instead of immediately realizing they’re watching an ad, viewers instinctively read the comment—just like they would on a regular post. This reduces resistance and increases the likelihood of them staying engaged.

This method is particularly effective for UGC-style ads, testimonials, and problem-solving content. Because it mirrors native user behavior, it boosts credibility and social proof while keeping your ad format fresh and engaging.

✨PRO TIP: We highly recommend using real users’ questions since they build trust and help brand reputation.

Hook #8: Green Screen

Who hasn’t used the Green Screen effect at least once in their ads?

If you haven’t, you’re missing out.

This hook is simple, highly effective, and easy to produce. All you need is UGC with a plain background, overlay an image or video behind it, and voilà—your ad is practically done. (Well, almost—you still need the right VO, footage, and storytelling to make it truly convert.)

The Green Screen hook works because it feels organic and native to platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels. It imitates the way creators react to content, explain concepts, or compare products—making it ideal for storytelling, social proof, and problem/solution setups.

Who can use it? Absolutely anyone. From gaming apps to fitness and fashion, this is one of the most versatile hooks.

Hook #9: Cinematic Shot

Want to make your ad look high-budget, cinematic, and instantly eye-catching? The Cinematic Wide-Angle hook—often captured with drones or ultra-wide lenses—is a powerful way to create scale, movement, and excitement in just a few seconds.

This hook works by starting with an impressive wide shot, pulling the viewer into the scene before zooming in or transitioning to the product. The movement makes it impossible to ignore, and the high-end aesthetic gives your brand a premium feel.

Here is how to use this hook:

Start big: use a drone shot, ultra-wide lens, or dynamic pan to capture a stunning scene.
Create movement: follow a subject, zoom into the product, or transition smoothly to the next shot.
Reveal the product or action: close in on a key feature or show the product in use.

PRO TIP: If you’re in the travel industry, use this immediately. This is great for transportation, hotels, activities and more. But it can be used for other verticals related to outdoor activities.

In this example, we see how a fertilizer brand uses wide angles as its hook.

Hook #10: Chat Conversation

People are curious. If they see a conversation, they will most likely keep reading –even if they are not that interested, they will just read to know what the people in the conversation are talking about.

That’s when the Chat hook comes in. This is a highly engaging and native-feeling visual technique where your ad mimics a text message conversation. This hook feels personal and real, just like chatting with a friend on your phone, which is exactly why it works so well. It’s especially effective in showing quick exchanges or addressing objections in a fun, low-pressure way.

Here are three simple steps to make it work:

Create a simulated chat: mimic an iOS or Android interface with text messages. We recommend checking on demographics to see which device is more used in your target audience.
Use simple, direct language: keep it casual and relatable to your target audience.
Add humor or personality: make it feel like a fun, informal conversation (or even throw in emojis for extra relatability!).

This hook works great for service-based businesses, DTC brands, and tech products, where you want to make the audience feel like they’re having an insider conversation or learning about something exciting in an easy, relatable way.

Time To Boost Your Creatives With These Hooks

Visual hooks are powerful tools that can make your ads stand out and instantly grab attention in a crowded feed. Whether you’re using Post-It Notes, a Green Screen, or a Chat Hook, these simple yet effective techniques help you connect with your audience, spark curiosity, and drive engagement.

Remember, the best hooks aren’t just about cool visuals—they’re about using the right storytelling, tone, and pacing to match the platform and the audience you’re targeting. So, experiment with these hooks, test what works best for your brand, and let your creativity lead the way.

If you’re ready to take your ad creative to the next level, start incorporating some of these high-impact visual hooks today. And if you need help, just give us a call.

Drive Sales With Primer

Primer works to help our partners, like Sunday and Jocko Fuel develop winning ads and scale by handling the process for you, including creative strategy, design, production, reporting, and media buying. So, if you need an extra hand, give us a call.

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Spring Break isn’t just a vacation—it’s a peak sales moment. People book trips, upgrade their luggage, shop for new outfits, and grab last-minute essentials. Brands in fashion, travel, and lifestyle can drive major conversions by tapping into this seasonal demand.

But timing and relevance are everything. Consumer intent shifts fast, and last year’s marketing strategies won’t work today. Ads on paid media need to feel fresh, platform-specific, and aligned with how people plan and shop for Spring Break.

Staying ahead in seasonal marketing isn’t just about showcasing great products. It’s about keeping up with trends, which change faster than ever. Brands can’t rely on the same creatives or even the same footage for too long—repetition leads to ad fatigue, and in an industry built on what’s trending, that’s a fast track to irrelevance.

In this article, we’ll break down the best video ad frameworks to maximize seasonal performance. Whether you’re selling travel gear, vacation packages, or Spring Break essentials, these strategies will help you stand out.

How Seasonal Marketing Works

Seasonal marketing is all about aligning with consumer behavior. As demand spikes for travel, fashion, and vacation essentials, performance metrics shift. Key indicators like CTR, CPM, and CPC fluctuate based on competition, timing, and consumer interest.

During peak buying periods, like Spring Break, CPMs (Cost Per Mille) often increase. More brands bid for attention, making ad costs rise. A strong hook, engaging video format, and platform-specific approach can help improve efficiency.

CTR (Click-Through Rate) tends to peak when ads match consumer intent. People actively search for travel deals, must-have products, and destination inspiration. Video formats that showcase real experiences—like “Get Ready With Me” or “Spring Break Packing List”—often drive the highest engagement.

CPC (Cost Per Click) varies depending on ad relevance and engagement. Creatives that feel timely and interactive usually perform best. UGC-driven ads, trend-based storytelling, and strong CTAs can help lower CPCs.

Spring Break marketing isn’t just about launching ads—it’s about optimizing for shifting consumer behavior. Brands that stay ahead of seasonal trends will drive higher conversions and maximize their ad spend.

So how do you maximize conversions during these peak times? Let’s dive into some frameworks that are perfect for this season.

Get Ready With Me Template

People love quick, engaging content, and nothing feels more natural than a “Get Ready With Me” (GRWM) video. It combines storytelling, social proof, and a step-by-step format that keeps viewers hooked.

This framework is a go-to for influencers and content creators because it showcases products organically—without sounding overly promotional. Instead of a hard sell, it invites the audience into a real-life moment, creating a sense of authenticity and trust.

For brands, this presents a huge opportunity. A well-executed GRWM ad can highlight must-have travel outfits, essential accessories, and packing hacks while feeling aspirational and personal.

Let’s see it in action.

This video ad from Hapari is 🔥.

Frame	Content
Hook	Pack with me for my summer vacation getaway in San Diego. I’m so excited for all the activities we’ve planned.
Step #1	I can’t leave behind my camera to capture all the memories.
Step #2	Sunscreen to protect throughout the day.
Step #3	And my Hapari swimsuits.
Problem	I feel like most swimsuits you see today are either too frumpy or too small and don’t stay in place.
Solution	Hapari tankinis are designed for an active lifestyle or a mom on the go.
Benefits	They have secret pockets, double lining and high-quality fabrics that are super comfortable and last for years.
Social proof	I no longer have to awkwardly adjust my swimsuit to a dip in the ocean. Instead, I can feel confident and comfortable no matter what I’m doing.
CTA	You shouldn’t have to choose between a perfect style and the perfect fit, so head to hapari.com to prepare for your next vacay.

The hook is short and engaging, it makes you keep watching for what she’s going to pack for her trip. The fact that she mentions 2 items she’s bringing before the product she’s advertising makes the ad feel organic. For step #3, she mentions the product and soon moves to the problem and solution, highlights the benefits, and finishes with a strong CTA that indicates exactly what you have to do next.

This top framework is exactly what you need if you’re looking for an ad that fits into a user’s feed and makes potential customers take action.

How It Works Template

This template is one of the most effective formulas tested at Primer.

It breaks down a product’s key features into an easy-to-follow, step-by-step format—making it perfect for paid ads.

This framework isn’t just about listing benefits; it showcases how a product solves a real problem. By walking the audience through a specific use case, it builds trust, removes doubt, and makes the purchase decision feel effortless.

For brands, this is a game-changer. Whether it’s demonstrating a carry-on suitcase that keeps travel stress-free, a skincare product that protects against sun damage, or a compact workout kit for vacations, How It Works ads turn features into solutions—without overwhelming the viewer.

This is the basic formula for any HIW ad, but you can always iterate to make it your own..

Take this one for example: it’s a shorter version of an ad that drove sales like crazy.

Frame	Content
Hook	Unpopular Opinion: Traveling with kids is EASY
HIW	This is how I do it!
Step #1	We’ll start first with the Logan suitcase.
Benefit #1	So something that makes it unique from other suitcases is specifically the straps.
Step #2	Now, we have the kane kids travel backpack that is also very functional, with all the compartments.
Step #3	And lastly, for traveling with kids you can’t forget the Benson toiletry kit.
CTA	Check out their other designs!

In this case, the creator shares how to travel easily with kids by using different luggage, each one with different benefits.

UGC Template

UGC is still a must-have for your 2025 marketing strategy—especially in paid ads.

There are countless ways to make it work for your brand: from authentic product reviews and brand storytelling to trend-driven try-on hauls. The key? Having high-quality, engaging content that feels real.

To help your creators stand out, we’ve put together a guide for producing top-tier UGC—so every piece of content drives results.

Here’s a perfect example of a short, snappy UGC video with a hook that grabs attention instantly and no words are needed. This uses the “What I ordered vs What I got” hook, one of the most powerful UGC-driven formats. It taps into social proof, curiosity, and relatability—key factors that make people stop scrolling. Whether it’s showcasing the perfect vacation outfit, durable luggage, or summer skincare that actually works, this format lets real customers do the selling for you. The contrast between expectation and reality builds authenticity and trust, making it a go-to for performance-driven campaigns.

Why is this ad so successful? Because it’s simple and engaging, and it’s sort of a before/after transformation where you see the product as a user would view it on the website immediately followed by what it looks like in real life.

Why These Top Frameworks Work For Spring Break (and any other season too!)

Seasonal marketing success isn’t just about running ads—it’s about creating content that feels timely, relevant, and engaging.

Every season brings a fresh opportunity to connect with audiences, but Spring Break is a unique moment when consumers actively look for travel essentials, fashion upgrades, and must-have accessories. That means brands need to move fast with creative strategies that match the seasonal demand andthe right ad framework can turn a simple video into a high-converting campaign.

We’ve covered three powerful templates that brands can use to drive engagement and sales:

Get Ready With Me: A natural, engaging way to showcase products while tapping into social proof and storytelling.
How It Works: A step-by-step breakdown that highlights key product benefits, solving customer pain points in an easy-to-digest way.
What I Ordered Vs. What I Got: A UGC-driven format that builds trust and authenticity, making products feel real and relatable.

These top frameworks work because they blend entertainment with product education, keeping viewers engaged while seamlessly driving conversions. But the real key to seasonal marketing success? Refreshing creatives constantly. Trends evolve quickly, and repeating the same footage or messaging leads to ad fatigue. The brands that stand out are the ones that adapt, experiment, and stay ahead of the curve—ensuring their campaigns feel fresh and relevant every single season.

Level Up Your Ads With Primer

At Primer, we’ve worked with top fashion brands like Savage X Fenty and Rent The Runway. We now offer an on-demand service that helps you concept, plan, source, and produce UGC video ads that resonate with your audience and drive results. Let us bring your brand’s vision to life with authentic, high-performing content.

Get in touch today »

Your ad campaign starts strong, delivering impressive engagement and a steady stream of conversions. Then, performance starts to dip. Costs rise, click-through rates drop, and conversions stall. What’s happening? Creative fatigue is likely the issue.

Creative fatigue silently drains your ad budget. When users see your ad repeatedly, they lose interest, which affects critical metrics.

If your ads aren’t delivering the results they once did, don’t panic. Read on to discover how you can stay ahead of fatigue and keep your campaigns converting.

What’s Creative Fatigue?

Creative fatigue occurs when audiences repeatedly see the same ad, leading to declining interest and engagement. Facebook defines it as a performance decrease caused by ad repetition. When fatigue sets in, metrics like CPM and CPC increase, while CTR and conversions plummet.

Although it shares similarities with banner blindness, they aren’t the same. Banner blindness happens when users ignore ads that visually blend in, regardless of repetition. Creative fatigue results specifically from overexposure. Both hurt performance, but fatigue directly impacts metrics, making it easier to track.

Key signs of creative fatigue include:

Increased CPM: Costs rise as your audience tires of the ad.
Lower CTR: Fewer people click, signaling reduced interest.
Higher Frequency: Ads are shown too often, annoying users.
Falling Conversion Rates: Even those who click are less likely to act.

How To Avoid Creative Fatigue By Testing Smarter

The best way to avoid creative fatigue is to actively test both big ideas and scaling iterations. This ensures your audience stays engaged while helping you identify what resonates most. At Primer, we use a proven approach called the Outlier Method.

The Outlier Method focuses on analyzing your best-performing ads to understand why they work. Instead of starting from scratch, you refine and build on winning elements like hooks, visuals, and messaging.

This method has four simple steps:

LAUNCH: Ideate and launch “big idea” ads based on key questions buyers have. (Get our step by step guide on ad testing here.)
PAUSE: Pause underperforming ads quickly and determine the ads that beat the account average and become top performers — the “wins”.
SCALE: Scale the budget for the “wins” and make creative iterations on them for your next test.
REPEAT: Periodically start a new “big idea” process and repeat steps 1-3.

To avoid creative fatigue, it’s important to move fast with iterations. Delaying changes can lead to declining engagement and increased ad costs, as fatigued ads drive CPMs higher and CTRs lower. By consistently testing new ideas and refining your winners, you can sustain high performance, extend the life of your campaigns, and maximize ROI.

Why Iterations And The Outlier Method Matter

Creative fatigue isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a performance killer. When your audience sees the same ad repeatedly, engagement drops, and costs rise. Metrics like CPM (cost per thousand impressions) increase as click-through rates decline, forcing platforms to deprioritize your ad in auctions. The result? Your once high-performing campaign becomes an expensive dud.

The Outlier Method offers a proactive solution by focusing on constant improvement. Actively testing both “big ideas” and smaller iterations ensures your creative remains fresh and engaging. By analyzing what works, scaling it, and iterating further, you avoid falling into the trap of diminishing returns. This method saves you time and budget while consistently driving results.

To maintain performance, you don’t need to overhaul everything—small changes can make a big impact. Iterations like revamping the hook, highlighting new product features, testing different CTAs, or incorporating trends help extend the lifespan of winning ads. The goal is to keep your creative relevant and engaging without losing what makes it effective.

Ad fatigue and rising CPMs don’t have to drain your budget. By embracing a structured testing process like the Outlier Method and refreshing your ads with targeted iterations, you can keep your campaigns converting and your audience engaged.

Growth isn’t about reinventing the wheel; it’s about making that wheel roll farther and faster. Ready to take your ad creative to the next level? Start testing smarter and iterating faster—your results will thank you.

Partner With Growth Experts

Primer works to help our partners, like Rocksbox, develop winning ads and scale by handling the process for you, including creative strategy, design, production, reporting, and media buying. So, if you need an extra hand, give us a call.

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With over 2.35 billion users worldwide, Instagram remains a powerhouse for both creators and businesses. Whether you’re looking to build an engaged audience or scale with paid ads, Instagram’s latest updates and algorithm shifts bring new opportunities to grow—if you know how to leverage them.

At Primer, we specialize in UGC production, paid ads, and data-driven creative strategy. In this guide, we’ll break down:

✅ The latest Instagram updates and what they mean for you
✅ Proven hook strategies to stop the scroll and increase engagement
✅ The key to relevance in 2025 (so the algorithm works for you, not against you)

Let’s dive in.

What’s New On Instagram This 2025

In 2025, Instagram continues to innovate, introducing features and updates that enhance user experience and engagement.

Extended Reels Duration

Responding to creator feedback, Instagram has extended Reels from the previous 90-second limit to up to 3 minutes. This change allows for more in-depth content.

Profile Grid Redesign

Instagram has updated its profile grid to a rectangular format, moving away from the traditional square layout. This change better accommodates vertical content, reflecting the platform’s shift towards vertical videos and images.

Updated Content Dimensions
To optimize your content for 2025, adhere to the following recommended sizes:

Feed Posts:
- Square: 1080 x 1080 pixels (1:1 aspect ratio)
- Portrait: 1080 x 1350 pixels (4:5 aspect ratio)
- Landscape: 1080 x 566 pixels (1.91:1 aspect ratio)
Reels and Stories: 1080 x 1920 pixels (9:16 aspect ratio)

How To Grow On Instagram

If you’re a creator or a business trying to stand out on Instagram, keep reading.

Instagram has changed things up again, rolling out new features, longer video options, and smarter ad placements. But with these updates, competition is tougher than ever. Simply posting isn’t enough—you need to capture attention fast, tell compelling stories, and create content that blends seamlessly into the platform.

The good news? Whether you’re a brand running ads or a creator growing an audience, there’s a strategy for you. Let’s break down what’s working in 2025.

1. Nail Your Hook: 31 Scroll-Stopping Ideas

The first three seconds of any video ad can make or break your content. If your hook doesn’t grab attention, people scroll past.

But don’t worry, we’ve proven 101 video hooks for you. And here is a list of trending hooks in 2025:

Urgency/FOMO

I wish I knew this sooner…
STOP scrolling if you [want X / struggle with X]!
If you miss this, you’ll regret it.
Everyone is talking about [X], but they’re missing this.
Last chance to grab this before it’s gone!
I found the secret formula for [X] but this won’t last forever…
If you’re not using this by [month], you’re behind.
I’ve seen this all over my Instagram and I needed to try it.
I didn’t know [X] existed until now.
Only 1% of people know about this.
The game has changed—are you ready for this?

Easy Solution to a Pain Point

The hard truth about [X] no one talks about.
You’re spending too much on [X]—here’s a better way.
This is the solution you’ve been waiting for.
I never thought getting rid of [problem] would be so easy.
Things I’d love to know before [X]
Forget about [X], try this instead
The one thing stopping you from [goal]
You don’t need [X] to succeed—do this instead
If you’re struggling with [X], I’ve been there.
I never thought fixing [X] would be so easy.

User Experience/Trending

22. Storytime on how [X] changed my life.
23. One thing that helped me with [X] is…
24. This is what I did to [X]
25. Okay, update on [X]
26. GRWM: [X] edition
27. Let’s get ready to [X]
28. We listen and we don’t judge: [X] edition.
29. When I [X], I won’t say anything but there will be signs.
30. I can’t believe I’m saying this but [X] is the best that has happened to me in a while.
31. POV: I used [X] and it changed my life.

💡 Pro Tip: These hooks work for Reels, Story ads, and even captions. At Primer, we’ve tested them in paid ads and seen lower CPMs and higher engagement rates when paired with UGC content.

2. Reels Are Your #1 Ally

After TikTok got banned –and although it’s still working–, Instagram took the opportunity to start prioritizing reels. Since IG also expanded Reels durations, making it easier to share longer, deeper narratives. We’re seeing a major shift in both organic content and paid ads.

If you’re wondering why reels work, it’s because:

People engage with real, unscripted moments.
Storytelling feels personal— even if they’re promoting something, they don’t look like ads.

🔥PRO TIP: Try this if you want your reels to get more views and conversions.

Heart-to-heart storytelling → Share behind-the-scenes moments, struggles, or personal experiences to build deeper connections.
Native-style ads → Instead of polished commercials, use UGC-style clips that blend naturally into a user’s feed.

3. Native Style: Ads That Don’t Feel Like Ads

Instagram users hate being sold to—but they love discovering new things. The best brands understand this and create ads that feel like organic content and creators can take advantage of this too.

What’s working in 2025:

UGC-style ads → Authentic, phone-shot content performs better than polished studio videos.

Jump cuts & captions → Keep the pacing fast and text clear.

“Show, don’t tell” storytelling → Instead of listing product benefits, demonstrate them in action.

4. Retarget the Right Way: Smarter Funnels for Instagram Ads

This tip is especially important for brands that are running Paid Ads on Meta.

Recent privacy changes and rising ad costs make traditional retargeting less effective and forces brands to rethink how they engage warm audiences.

Here are some winning retargeting strategies:

Engagement-Based Retargeting → Video views are one of the most important metrics that sometimes are forgotten. Target users who watched 50% of your Reel or Story ad. They’re already interested—now drive action.
Story-Based Retargeting → Show product demo Stories again to users who viewed but didn’t click. A second touch can drive purchases.

Now, if you want to improve your creatives for retargeting, here is one example.

This example works exceptionally well for retargeting. Despite being a longer video (1 minute), it grabs attention instantly with a direct hook: “I got a ton of questions about JRNYS prescription programs.”

From there, it strategically answers key Buyer Decision Questions (BDQs) that hesitant buyers often have before purchasing. It tackles:

“Have you actually noticed a difference?” → Backed by a before-and-after transformation, reinforcing credibility.
“Why choose it?” → Highlights brand and product benefits, addressing concerns around effectiveness and trust.

The video wraps up with a strong recommendation, making it the perfect format to nudge warm audiences toward conversion.

Make Instagram Work for You in 2025

Instagram is evolving, and staying ahead means adapting to new features, trends, and strategies. Whether you’re a brand looking to scale or a creator growing your audience, keeping up with these changes is essential.

For creators, this means mastering hooks, storytelling, and engagement-driven content. Trends change fast, and staying ahead means experimenting with new formats like longer Stories, DM funnels, and AI-powered features.

For brands, Instagram isn’t just another platform—it’s a performance channel. To cut ad costs and maximize revenue, you need content that blends seamlessly into the feed. Users don’t want ads—they want stories they can relate to and that’s why UGC is a game-changer.

If you don’t have a steady source of UGC content, we can handle that for you. At Primer, we specialize in high-performing UGC and paid ads that drive real results. Let’s make Instagram your top growth channel—get in touch today.

Partner With Growth Experts

Hit your growth goals with a continuous pipeline of videos, landing pages, images, conversion copywriting and UGC ready to test and scale. We are Growth Experts that are willing to do the hard work for you.

Creative On-Demand: Access our subscription-based marketing creative platform to request UGC, videos, images, and landing pages crafted by top marketing creative strategists and designers who understand what drives conversions.

Get in touch today »

Reaching innovators and early adopters is a critical step in any successful advertising strategy. These audiences aren’t just looking for new products—they’re actively seeking solutions to their problems. But their expectations are high, and generic messaging won’t cut it. To win them over, you need ads that address their pain points and highlight your product’s unique advantages.

In this blog, we’ll explore how to structure paid ads for innovators and early adopters, introduce two video frameworks designed specifically for this market, and highlight the top platforms for advertising in 2025.

Understanding Innovators And Early Adopters

Stages of Technology Adoption

The technology adoption lifecycle splits consumers into five groups: innovators, early adopters, early majority, late majority, and laggards. Innovators and early adopters are the first to embrace new technologies or products, accounting for about 16% of the market.

Innovators: Risk-tolerant, curious, and eager to experiment with groundbreaking ideas.
Early Adopters: More pragmatic but still adventurous, they value solutions that align with their lifestyle and solve pressing problems effectively.

However, when we talk about Innovators and Early Adopters, we’re not just referring to tech enthusiasts. We’re talking about anyone who embraces innovation in any category —the first to try a new skincare product and leave a review, those constantly seeking the latest fashion trends to update their wardrobe, and so on.

Advertising to Innovators And Early Adopters

To appeal to these groups:

Focus on Differentiation: Highlight how your product or service is superior to existing solutions.
Emphasize Problem-Solving: Show you understand their pain points and offer a transformative solution.
Leverage FOMO: Innovators and early adopters love being part of something exclusive and new.
Provide Evidence: Testimonials, case studies, and data resonate with these audiences.

For these consumer segments, video ads are a compelling format to deliver high-impact messaging while capturing attention. Let’s dive into two frameworks perfect for engaging problem-aware audiences at this stage.

1. EFSB (Enemy – Failed Solution – Benefits)

This framework highlights the flaws in other solutions and positions your product as the superior choice.

Enemy: Identify and describe the “enemy,” which could be a common problem, misconception, or ineffective solution that your target audience faces. This could be the challenges of producing quality ad creatives or the frustrations of managing multiple marketing channels effectively.
Failed Solution: Discuss the typical solutions that have failed to adequately address this enemy. Highlight the limitations or frustrations these solutions introduce, making it clear why they aren’t sufficient. This creates context for why a new approach is needed.
Benefits: Finally, present your product as the hero in this narrative. Outline the benefits and unique features that your offering provides, demonstrating how it effectively resolves the pain points associated with the enemy and the previous failed solutions. Emphasize the transformative results that users can expect by choosing your product.

Why it Works: Innovators and Early Adopters are often drawn to narratives that challenge conventional wisdom. By positioning your product as a transformative hero that delivers distinct benefits, you create a compelling case that aligns with their aspirations for cutting-edge solutions. This approach not only captures their attention. It also fosters a sense of belonging to a community that values innovation and improvement.

Example: Losing your memories is a nightmare for anyone (enemy). That’s why you store them as photos and videos, but if a tragedy like a flood or fire occurs, you could lose them (failed solution). That’s why we introduce a memory digitizer as your solution—by digitizing your media, your memories will be safe forever (benefit).

Let’s see this framework in action:

2. IRPA (Imagine – Realize – Prove – Act)

This framework guides potential customers through a journey where they first imagine their desired outcome, helping them visualize the benefits of a solution.

Imagine: Encourage the audience to visualize the benefits and outcomes they desire from using the product.
Realize: Help them understand how the product can address their specific needs and challenges effectively.
Prove: Provide evidence, such as testimonials or case studies, to validate the product’s effectiveness and reliability.
Act: Prompt the audience to take action, whether it’s signing up, making a purchase, or trying the service.

IRPA also works exceptionally well for retargeting campaigns by helping prospects who have already considered your product envision their problems being solved and building credibility with proof.

Why it Works: This framework works great for early adopters and innovators because it aligns with their mindset and decision-making process.

Example: In this case, we see how the “Imagine” refers to an understanding of why other major brands love Wantable. It then goes on to explain how this service makes their lives easier (realize) and, through social proof, both “proves” and “acts” at the same time.

BONUS: Where to Find Innovators And Early Adopters

As we all know, Innovators and Early Adopters are the first ones to try something new. That’s why they’re constantly searching for the newest solution to their problem but where can you find them?

You’ll often find them on platforms that cater to discovery, trends, and community engagement. Here are three of the best platforms to advertise to Innovators and Early Adopters in 2025:

TikTok

There is no doubt that TikTok is first place when it comes to finding Innovators and Early Adopters.

TikTok’s blend of short-form, high-engagement content and algorithm-driven personalization continues to make it a powerhouse for advertisers. Its focus on creativity and UGC aligns perfectly with consumer preferences in 2025.

Key Opportunities:

Shoppable Content: In-app shopping integrations make it seamless for users to purchase directly from ads.
TikTok Spark Ads: Allow brands to amplify organic UGC, building trust and boosting reach.
AI-Enhanced Targeting: TikTok’s advancements in predictive audience modeling improve ad performance.

Fashion, beauty, health & wellness, and lifestyle brands perform especially well due to the platform’s visually-driven nature.

Check out this UGC example: strong hook, trendy music and an innovative product (tabs that you can take anywhere instead of normal superfoods). This example is looking for Early Adopters that want to try out those Superfoods Tabs.

YouTube

YouTube remains a leader for video content with over 2 billion monthly active users. Its diversification into Shorts (competing with TikTok) and live-streaming makes it a versatile advertising platform for brands targeting both short-form and long-form content consumers.

Key Opportunities:

YouTube Shorts Ads: Tapping into the TikTok-style short video trend with massive reach.
In-Stream Video Ads: Mid-roll and pre-roll ads remain effective for storytelling.
Creator Partnerships: Influencer marketing continues to thrive on YouTube, with creators offering authentic integrations.

E-commerce, tech, education, and entertainment brands benefit from YouTube’s ability to educate, entertain, and convert users.

Reddit advertising has been experiencing exponential growth, earning its place on this list as a bonus platform for reaching innovators and early adopters. Why? Reddit’s niche communities make it an ideal platform to connect with innovators in specific interest areas.

Key Opportunities:

Targeting by subreddit to ensure ads are shown to highly relevant, engaged audiences.
Sponsored posts and discussions for authentic, conversational ad experiences.
AMA (Ask Me Anything) sessions to build trust and credibility for new products.

Tech & Gadgets, Gaming, Health & Wellness, Finances… Those are just a few niches that are seeing Reddit as a blue ocean for advertising opportunities.

Get Video Ads With These Frameworks Crafted By Growth Experts

In the competitive realm of DTC marketing, these frameworks serve as your secret arsenal for engaging even the most discerning and informed audiences. By mastering and utilizing EFSB and IRPA, you’re not merely selling a product—you’re creating captivating stories that resonate with your audience’s needs and aspirations.

Your Growth Marketing Team: Partnering with Primer means we take care of everything—strategy and planning, creative production, reporting, and optional media buying—to achieve your growth objectives. You focus on your business while we deliver the results.

Creative On-Demand: Access a subscription-based marketing creative platform to request UGC, video ads, images, and landing pages crafted by top marketing creative strategists and designers who understand what drives conversions.

Get in touch today »

In the world of digital marketing, getting your paid ads right can make or break a campaign. But success doesn’t come without its challenges. Through trial and error, we’ve uncovered common mistakes that undermine creative strategies. The good news? We’re sharing how you can avoid them. Here’s how to sidestep these pitfalls and ensure your ads stand out in a crowded digital landscape.

1. Ignoring The Hook

The first 3 seconds of your ad creative can determine its success. Without a strong hook, users scroll past.

The Problem: Weak or generic openings don’t grab attention. Viewers leave before they understand your message.

The Fix: Start with something bold or unexpected. Use striking visuals, relatable scenarios, or intriguing questions to stop the scroll. Need inspo? We’ve developed a list of 101 hooks that are proven to help boost ad performance.

Here are some tips on how to improve your hook’s performance:

Use Trends: Trending topics or formats instantly grab attention and feel relevant to your audience.
Ask Questions: Pose a question that sparks curiosity or addresses a problem your audience wants to solve.
Highlight Pain Points: Call out a challenge your audience faces to make them feel understood.
Show Bold Visuals: Use striking, unusual, or unexpected imagery to stop the scroll and draw people in.

This hook is great because it immediately starts by sharing relatable content to call your attention. “PSA” is used to convey important information intended to inform the public about an issue, encourage action, or raise awareness, so it’s a great technique to capture attention from the very beginning.

2. Focusing Only on Features, Not Benefits

Features alone don’t connect emotionally. People buy benefits, not specs.

The Problem: Highlighting features misses the chance to show how your product solves a problem.

For example, you’re a supplement brand and you’re highlighting the ingredients but… what makes your supplement better than the rest? Focus on benefits like “Boost your energy with natural ingredients”, or “Prioritize proper hydration with key electrolytes”.

The Fix: Emphasize the transformation your product provides.

Check out this carousel and how it uses both features and benefits. It explains the ingredients and the benefit each ingredient has.

3. One-Size-Fits-All Creative

Listen carefully: do not recycle the same paid ad across all platforms. Results won’t be the same.

Each platform has unique formats, audience behaviors, and best practices. A TikTok audience doesn’t consume content the same way as a Meta audience.

The Problem: Each platform has a distinct style, and its users behave differently. Using one creative for all can backfire. Why? Because of different content expectations –for instance, users are willing to see some authentic, fast-paced videos on TikTok while Meta favors short, engaged content; also, there are different audiences on each platform that you need to keep in mind.

The Fix: Tailor your creatives to fit each platform’s style and audience. It takes effort but delivers better results.

4. Overusing Generic Phrases

It’s time to talk about banner blindness.

Banner blindness is a phenomenon where users ignore ads, often due to overexposure or predictability.

You’re seeing the same phrase everywhere. It’s not authentic anymore. And you know it’s a paid ad before they’ve even finished the pitch.

The Problem: Audiences ignore phrases they’ve seen too many times. Your ad feels unoriginal and untrustworthy.

The Fix: Use fresh, specific language. Address your audience’s needs or use storytelling to grab attention.

Here are some examples:

Don’t say “New Year, New You” try “This year, I finally solved my [pain point] with [product]” instead.
Stop using “Transform Your Life Today” try “Life Hack: Try [product] for [pain point]” instead.
Change “Get Results in Just [X] Days!” for “Here’s how to get [value prop]”.

5. Skipping UGC

2025 is the era of user-generated content (UGC)

User-generated content (UGC) is content created by individual users to share information or tell a story: they may tell how they found your product, how great it was for them and more. It’s authentic content that works extraordinarily well for audiences nowadays.

The problem: Audiences crave real stories. Ignoring UGC in your ad mix means missing out on relatable, high-converting content.

The fix: Incorporate UGC into your campaigns. There are plenty of ways for that: from testimonials to reviews, real-life demos or voice overs – because yes, a real voice is way better than an AI generated one.

If you don’t have time to source a UGC creator, don’t worry, we can do that for you!

This one example here has everything a good UGC video should have:

Starts with a strong hook
Shows a before/after transformation
Spotlights the product in action
Lists benefits, not features

6. No Clear Call To Action

Even a great ad fails without a clear next step.

Now imagine: your ad creative is great, it has amazing UGC, answers the main BDQs your customers could have, but it finishes abruptly and it isn’t clear what to do next. Confused viewers don’t convert.

The problem: Vague or absent CTAs leave potential customers guessing. They’ll leave without taking action.

The fix: Add a specific, actionable CTA. Examples include “Shop now,” “Start your free trial,” or “Learn more today.”

Bonus tip: Adapt your CTA to the platform you’re advertising. For example, for Tiktok add your CTA in native-style captions or to have your voiceover state the CTA clearly.

7. Not Scaling Enough

Failing to scale a winning ad creative is one of the biggest missed opportunities in paid media. You’ve done the hard work of finding a creative that works—don’t let it go to waste.

The Problem: Many advertisers either hesitate to scale or scale too cautiously. A winning creative has a limited lifespan, and delaying scaling can lead to leaving significant revenue on the table. Additionally, scaling without a clear strategy can cause performance to plateau or decline.

The Fix: Scale your winner strategically and quickly. One proven approach is ourthe Outlier Method. This method involves isolating top-performing creatives, analyzing key metrics, and allocating more budget to scale those winners fast.

Start Testing Early: Identify potential winners before your campaign is fully live.
Analyze Metrics: Focus on critical indicators like CTR, CPA, and ROAS to select your outliers.
Allocate Budget Aggressively: Double down on top creatives while monitoring performance closely.

Scaling is the key to maximizing your campaign ROI. Don’t let hesitation hold you back.

Turn Mistakes Into Wins

Avoiding these mistakes can dramatically boost your paid ad performance. By leveraging tailored messaging, understanding your audience, and using data to guide your decisions, you’ll create ads that resonate and drive results. In a competitive market, a strong creative strategy isn’t just an advantage—it’s a necessity. Implement these fixes, test relentlessly, and watch your campaigns thrive.

Your Growth Partners

From UGC to landing pages, Primer helps create high-converting marketing assets. Trusted by top brands like Ka’Chava, Rocksbox and more, we’d love to work with you to grow your revenue, and can partner in whatever way suits you best.

Get in touch today »

Research: Old Way vs. New Way

Building Prompts Like a Pro

Here’s a beginner-friendly prompt structure Dara shared.

Prompting Best Practices

Humanizing AI

Native Ads

A World of AI-Generated Content

AI, UGC and Infinite Message Testing

AI-Powered Creative Strategy

Here are some ways you can use AI in your ads:

The Future of Advertising

🔥 Urgency/Scarcity

💥 Emotional Triggers

💎 Value-Driven

🧠 Curiosity & Intrigue

💪 Confidence & Trust

Power Words in Action

Why Power Words Work

Partner with Creative Experts

Why You Should Advertise on Reddit

What Kind of Ads Can You Run on Reddit?

#1 Build for Reddit

📐 1. Use the Right Aspect Ratio

✍️ 2. Include Text Overlays

🔇 3. Add Closed Captions

#2 Be a Brand

#3 Show & Tell

✂️ 1. Keep Headlines Brief

🎥 2. Experiment with Longer Video

🛍️ 3. Show Your Product

💡 4. Experiment with Deal Messaging

#5 Be Prescriptive

📣 1. Always Add a CTA

TIL How to Advertise on Reddit

Partner with Growth Experts

What Happens When You Copy-Paste Your Ads

TikTok: Speed, Authenticity, And Native Energy

Here’s how to win on TikTok:

Instagram: Storytelling That Sells

How to make your ads work on Instagram:

YouTube: Storytelling, Credibility, And The Power of The First 5 Seconds

YouTube ad tips that actually work:

Reddit: TIL, AMA and More.

How to survive (and thrive) with Reddit ads:

Final Thoughts: Tailor or Tank

Tailor Your Ads With Primer

What’s a Visual Hook?

Hook #1: Post-It Notes

Hook #2: Search Bar

Hook #3: Sensory Hook

Hook #4: Jump Cut

Hook #5: Curiosity Hook

Hook #6: Shock Factor

Hook #7: Comment Box

Hook #8: Green Screen

Hook #9: Cinematic Shot

Hook #10: Chat Conversation

Time To Boost Your Creatives With These Hooks

Drive Sales With Primer

How Seasonal Marketing Works

Get Ready With Me Template

How It Works Template

UGC Template

Why These Top Frameworks Work For Spring Break (and any other season too!)

Level Up Your Ads With Primer

What’s Creative Fatigue?

How To Avoid Creative Fatigue By Testing Smarter

Top Iterations to Refresh Your Winner Video Ads

Why Iterations And The Outlier Method Matter

Partner With Growth Experts

What’s New On Instagram This 2025

How To Grow On Instagram

1. Nail Your Hook: 31 Scroll-Stopping Ideas

Urgency/FOMO

Easy Solution to a Pain Point

User Experience/Trending

2. Reels Are Your #1 Ally

3. Native Style: Ads That Don’t Feel Like Ads

4. Retarget the Right Way: Smarter Funnels for Instagram Ads

Make Instagram Work for You in 2025