Identifying the target audience of a commercial involves analyzing the content of the ad, its placement and the underlying data of the brand.
- Visuals and Casting: Note the age, gender, ethnicity, and clothing of the actors. Characters often mirror the intended audience to build relatability.
- Language and Tone: Examine the slogans, slang, and music used. A commercial with upbeat indie music and casual slang might target Gen Z, while one with orchestral music and formal language may target affluent professionals.
- Problem-Solution Framing: Identify the specific “pain point” the commercial addresses. For example, an ad showing a busy parent struggling to cook dinner targets time-strapped families.
- Aspiration vs. Reality: Determine if the ad appeals to a lifestyle (how people live now) or a psychographic (who they want to be, such as adventurous, eco-conscious, or high-status).
