Written by In the age of smartphones and social media, many businesses overlook the power of television. But if you’re serious about building brand credibility and reaching a wide audience, it’s time to learn how to get a commercial on TV — even if you’re a beginner.
Contrary to common belief, TV advertising in 2025 is not just for giant corporations. Thanks to regional broadcasting, affordable packages, and smart media buying, small and mid-sized businesses can now put their brand on screen without breaking the bank.
Here’s everything you need to know.
Step 1: Understand Why TV Advertising Still Works
Before you dive in, it’s important to know why television is still effective:
- Massive Reach – TV connects you with millions of viewers at once.
- High Trust Factor – Audiences still trust TV more than random internet ads.
- Emotional Impact – A well-made ad can create lasting impressions.
- Better Brand Recall – People remember what they see and hear repeatedly on TV.
If your goal is visibility, trust, and professional branding — TV is a smart choice.
Step 2: Plan Your Message and Budget
Ask yourself:
- What do I want to say?
- Who am I speaking to?
- How much can I invest?
Your message should be simple, clear, and emotionally engaging. A typical ad runs 15 to 30 seconds, so every second counts.
Start with a clear call to action (CTA) — like visiting your website, calling a number, or visiting your store.
Pro Tip: Keep your budget flexible. You’ll need funds for both production and airtime.
Step 3: Write or Outsource a TV Commercial Script
The script is the foundation of your commercial. If you don’t have writing experience, consider hiring a scriptwriter or working with an agency like National Media Spots.
A good script should include:
- An attention-grabbing hook
- A relatable problem or scenario
- A solution (your product or service)
- A strong CTA
- Your brand name/logo/URL clearly shown or mentioned
Step 4: Produce the Commercial
Once your script is finalized, it’s time to film. Depending on your budget, you can go basic or high-end.
Here’s what production may include:
- Camera and lighting setup
- On-screen talent or voice-over artist
- Visuals and graphics
- Music and sound effects
- Editing and final output
Don’t cut corners — quality matters. A poorly made ad can hurt your brand more than help it. Many agencies offer affordable, high-quality production packages tailored for small businesses.
Step 5: Choose Your Target Channels and Time Slots
This is where you decide where and when your commercial will air.
- Local Channels – Ideal for area-specific businesses; more affordable.
- National Channels – Broader reach, but more expensive.
- Niche Channels – Great for targeting specific interests or demographics.
- Prime Time vs. Off-Peak – Prime time (7 PM–10 PM) has more viewers but higher rates.
Some TV networks now offer addressable advertising, allowing you to show ads to selected households based on region, interests, or behavior.
Step 6: Book Airtime (Media Buying)
This part is called media buying, where you purchase ad slots. You can do this:
- Directly through TV networks (if you know what you’re doing)
- Or through a media buying agency (recommended for first-timers)
Agencies like National Media Spots handle everything — from negotiation to scheduling — and often get you better rates and reach.
Step 7: Launch Your Ad and Track Results
Once your ad is live, keep track of its impact. While TV doesn’t give instant metrics like digital ads, you can still monitor:
- Website traffic increases
- Phone call volume
- Promo code redemptions
- QR code scans
- Sales spikes
Compare this data with the timing and location of your ad for better insights.
Bonus Tip: Combine TV with Digital Marketing
For best results, pair your TV ad with social media, search ads, or email marketing. When someone sees your brand on TV and then again online, your brand feels more familiar and trustworthy.
This cross-platform exposure significantly increases engagement and conversions.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to get a commercial on TV may seem complex, but with the right planning and support, it’s completely doable — even for small businesses. From message creation to production and placement, each step brings you closer to reaching your audience in a powerful and professional way.
If you’re ready to get your brand on screen, now is the perfect time. TV advertising in 2025 is smarter, more affordable, and more accessible than ever before.
Need Help Getting on TV?
National Media Spots is here to help you plan, produce, and air your first (or next) commercial with confidence. Contact us today and take your brand to the next level.
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