How Companion Banners Improve Engagement and Click-Through Rates on YouTube Ads

In the last few years, YouTube has become the go-to platform for video marketing. But just running your adverts on YouTube isn’t enough. The real trick is getting those ads to work their magic. Enter companion banners. These are your secret weapon for improving click-through rates (CTR) on YouTube Ads.

You might be wondering what companion banners are. Simply put, these are additional static images that appear alongside your ads. They serve as a clickable aid that can boost interaction with your ad. Many marketers often overlook them, but trust us, they’re a game-changer. Want to make your YouTube Ads work harder for you? Keep reading.

Understanding Companion Banners

Companion banners are not just any images. They’re like your ad’s little helpers, sitting in the corner, ready to catch a viewer’s eye while your video ad plays. Their job is to remind viewers of your call to action even if they can’t quite remember your video. By offering a persistent link, they provide viewers more opportunities to click and engage with your brand.

The Advantages of Using Companion Banners

Creating a more substantial presence on YouTube is crucial. Companion banners give you an edge because they stick around even when your ad is over. This added exposure can translate to more clicks. A simple and effective banner can direct potential customers right to your website, landing page, or product. It’s also worth noting that these banners benefit from the familiarity and traction already gained by your video ad.

Design Tips for Effective Companion Banners

Designing a companion banner isn’t just about slapping an image next to your video. Make sure your banner is vibrant yet relevant to your company’s branding. Keep the text legible and to the point. The best banners use a clear call to action. You don’t want your viewers guessing what to do next – spell it out for them.

Maximising Click-Through Rates on YouTube

When aiming to boost your CTR, using a well-designed companion banner isn’t your only trick. Consider your ad content. Is it engaging and relevant to your target audience? A clear and concise message, paired with visually appealing visuals, goes a long way. Also, pay attention to your ad duration. Keeping it short can help maintain viewer interest.

The Power of Testing and Refining

After you’ve created your companion banner and video ad, A/B testing should be your best friend. Experiment with different designs, texts, and calls to action to see what works best. Monitor engagement rates and make adjustments as needed. Testing in small batches can save you time and resources while giving you the insights needed to optimise your strategy. The data you gather will be invaluable for future ad campaigns.

Case Study: Success with Companion Banners

Back in 2023, XYZ Company saw a notable increase in their ad’s CTR after incorporating companion banners into their strategy. Initially hesitant, they decided to use brightly coloured, on-brand banners with legible calls to action. Their small investment in design paid off when they witnessed a 25% increase in connection throughs – simply by adding these banners.

Learn More about YouTube Ads

Companion banners are a tool you can’t afford to ignore. They’ve proven to be an invaluable addition in improving CTRs and enhancing viewer interaction in the past. If your goal for 2025 is increased engagement and better brand visibility, start integrating companion banners into your YouTube marketing strategy. Don’t be afraid to experiment with design and test different approaches. You might be surprised by how much more effective your ads can be.

For more insights on effective YouTube Ads management, dive into our dedicated guide.

Get in touch with us and we’ll get back to you within 24hrs

Our team are ready to help take your website to the next level and grow your business online. Contact us today for a free discovery session and we will show you our approach and we can help you hit your growth targets this year.