Reaching the right audience at the right time is crucial for advertisers. Google’s expanded First Position ads for video campaigns now ensure your brand is the first in-stream ad viewers see on YouTube, helping you stand out when it matters most.

What Are First Position Ads?

First Position ads are a YouTube ad format that ensures your ad is the very first one shown to your target audience before any other video ads. Originally limited to YouTube Select inventory, this feature is now available across all YouTube content through Google Display & Video 360 at dynamic rates. Advertisers can now take advantage of this powerful placement on any type of content, helping them engage audiences more effectively.

First Position ads are perfect for brands looking to make an immediate impact during key moments. Whether it’s a product launch, trailer release, or a major cultural event, this ad format places your brand front-and-center, ensuring it’s the first thing your target audience sees.

First Position: Ideal for Key Moments

First Position is particularly beneficial for brands that want to capture attention during critical moments, such as product launches, film trailers, or major cultural events. Advertisers can place their ads in front of highly engaged audiences at the most opportune times, ensuring maximum impact.

  • One notable example is Booking.com, which utilized First Position during the holiday season travel surge. By securing the first ad position, they enhanced their brand’s presence and saw a 21% lift in ad recall—well above the industry benchmark.
  • IHG Hotels & Resorts also leveraged First Position in combination with YouTube Sponsorships and Content Takeovers to target luxury travelers. Their ads were placed at the start of NFL and F1 content, driving a twofold increase in brand awareness compared to standard YouTube benchmarks.

How First Position Ads Benefit Your Brand

  • Prime Visibility: Your brand is the first ad viewers see, ensuring top-of-mind awareness.
  • Enhanced Targeting: Available across all YouTube content, allowing for flexible and dynamic ad placement.
  • Increased Engagement: Ideal for critical moments like product launches and high-profile events.

Conclusion

With the expanded reach on YouTube through Google Display & Video 360, brands now have an unparalleled opportunity to capture attention during the most impactful moments. Make sure your brand is seen first and stays top of mind with this powerful ad format.

Related Articles

Be the first in-stream ad your target audience sees with First Position
Display & Video 360 overview
YouTube Select Inventory