Sometime ago I was sent these spec TV spots (videos below) that took a different approach to promoting Sirius. And I really think the concept has potential.
In most other commercial spots - by both Sirius and XM - it's essentially been a one-way message: The companies telling the viewer how great the service is, and the variety of content available to them.
But these spots take a different approach.
Instead they give the personal experience of a single subscriber (a taxi driver... who is character) from their own point of view. I could see different spots featuring personal experiences from soccer moms, truck drivers, real estate agents, contractors, etc. Anyone who spends a lot of time in their car.
Anyway, take a look, and remember that they're test spots, so you're viewing them in raw form:
Great idea. Perhaps SIRIUS and XM could run a contest where their respective subscribers would produce short videos on why satellite radio is important in their lives. There are a lot of creative/passionate people out there judging by the comments posted here on Orbitcast.
Prizes could be awarded by the satcasters for the best videos and real TV commercials made. I would think there could be some real money if one of the subscribers' ideas were actually used in a commercial.
The "Testimonial" format is a great idea. The people that know the service are the best advertisers of the service. I would pick 3 or 4 people from different demographics.
To XM & Sirius:
The Sirius and XM websites are sorely lacking for testimonials. Can you imagine what XM fans would say about their service. Same with Sirius. Come-on guys, let us tell you what we love about SAT radio !!!
We'll sell radios for you.
I think this is an awsome idea. Makes the commercials much more personal. Hell, I wanted to go out and buy a SIRI reciever after watching those spots.
Definately a good idea.
From a lot of the posts I see around here, a contest like that would end up with 50 submissions talking about how great Howard is and how much O&A suck, or how great O&A are and how much Howard sucks.
I like when he says "Sirius is more than just Howard." Not from what I read here.
How could he be listening to Morning Edition on Sirius when the show isn't carried on Sirius ? Just felt like fact checking that part :oD
Good idea rich, think that would be awsome. Also its about time some real advertising was done!