Political advertising has changed throughout the years and possibly for the better. It is a form of campaigning that allows candidates to directly deliver messages to voters. In today’s digital age, political advertising has undergone a huge transformation. With the rise of social media and online platforms, candidates can reach audiences that otherwise may not have been paying attention to the election. In this blog, we will discuss the ways in which political advertising has changed in the digital age.
How Political Advertising Has Changed:
Micro-targeting
The first way how political advertising has changed in the digital age is through the ability to perform micro-targeting. This technique uses data analytics to identify very specific groups of people with similar interests or values. Using the information on demographics, purchases, likes and dislikes, and more, advertisers can segment these groups to deliver tailored messages. For example, a political campaign might target a specific demographic, such as suburban parents, with messages that directly address their concerns and questions. While micro-targeting can help deliver content that is interesting and helpful, it also has a dark side. Beware of messages that are seeking to deceive you through inaccurate or biased information.
Social Media Advertising
While it may not come as surprise, one of the biggest ways political advertising has changed is through the use of social media. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram offer powerful marketing tools and targeting options, similar to micro-targeting, to deliver messages to specific audiences.
One way social media has revolutionized political campaigns is the speed at which candidates can get messages to the general population. It’s not hard to reach an audience of people who are consistently scrolling through social media on a daily basis. Advertising campaigns can also use social media to engage directly with voters, share content, and mobilize supporters.
Real-time Feedback
The third way how political advertising has changed in the digital age is through real-time feedback. Before the rise of digital media, political campaigns relied heavily on polling data to gauge their messages’ feedback. Today, digital advertising allows these political campaigns to receive real-time feedback on their messaging. Social media analytics can track things like comments, likes, and shares to determine which messages are resonating the most with their audience. This allows them to then adjust their strategy accordingly.
Video Advertising
The last way that political advertising has changed is through online video advertising. Video advertising has become increasingly popular in political campaigns specifically because videos are perceived as a highly effective way of delivering emotional content. Video can also be used to tell compelling stories, explain complex issues, and engage voters deeper.
End Note
Digital media and technology have transformed political advertising in many ways. From micro-targeting to social media advertising, real-time feedback, and video advertising, political campaigns continue to evolve and change. With these new tools, however, come new challenges, such as privacy concerns and disinformation. It is essential to be informed about how political advertising works and evaluate the messages we receive.
If you want help with your upcoming political advertising campaign, Nartak Media Group has your back! With more than 35 years of experience in advertising across the US, Nartake Media Group knows the “ins” and “outs” of not just the political advertising landscape, but also of the communities and neighborhoods of your prospective voters. Are you ready to work with us? Reach out today!