How advertisers can take advantage of the viral video trend

Teens may be downloading online video like crazy but when it comes to uploading favorite clips or user generated content, boys are tops. According to a recent report from the Pew Internet and American Life Project about 19% of teenage boys have uploaded a video clip while only 10% of teen girls have done the same.

by Kristina Knight

Why is this important?

Because when it comes to other forms of social networking, girls by far are more prolific than boys. According to the project girls are more likely to blog, be active on content sites and to have a profile on a social networking site.

How can this help advertisers?

By helping advertisers determine which ad mediums are more likely to appeal to boys and girls. Because boys are more likely to have uploaded a video sketch, it stands to reason that boys are probably more likely to pay attention to other video clips, including the sponsorships offered pre- mid- or post-roll.

The announcement is also important as brands continue to roll out viral ad campaigns. Asking users to build their own commercials has risen in popularity with brands like Heinz and Doritos leading the way. By knowing which groups of people are more likely to respond to the call for viral video, marketers can better engage both those who will likely create the ads and will have a better idea of the types of ads that could be created.