Targets & Segments

Why Irregular Ad Scheduling Wins: Uncovering the Hidden Dynamics of Skippable Ad Acceptance

  • ARF
  • JOURNAL OF ADVERTISING RESEARCH

A large-scale analysis of clickstream data reveals that how often and how regularly pre-roll skippable ads are shown significantly influences whether users accept or skip them. Using advanced modeling, researchers find that less frequent and more irregular exposure increases the hidden “acceptance propensity” underlying viewing behavior. These findings challenge conventional scheduling tactics and offer new strategies for maximizing skippable ad effectiveness.

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Authenticity in Action: What Consumers Want from Social Media Marketing

  • By Brooke Waters (Ipsos), Young Pros Officer
  • ARF

On November 5, the ARF Social Council explored how audiences perceive authenticity on social media and how brands can build trust, credibility, and stronger outcomes through more genuine messaging and partnerships. Attendees heard new research from HawkPartners, Breakthrough Research, SunDogs and the ARF Social Council, followed by a dynamic discussion.

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Inside the Mechanics of Effective Influencer Content

  • ARF
  • Knowledge at Hand | CMO Brief

Influencer marketing continues to grow as brands increasingly rely on creators to deliver content that drives awareness, trust and purchase behavior. This ARF Knowledge at Hand report synthesizes findings across academic research, industry studies and ARF events to identify what truly drives influencer impact—and how marketers can optimize creator partnerships for effectiveness.

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Why Personalization Persuades: What the Evidence Really Says

  • ARF
  • JOURNAL OF ADVERTISING RESEARCH

Does personalized advertising really work—or does it risk turning consumers off? A large-scale meta-analysis of 53 experimental studies finds that personalized ads are, on average, more persuasive than non-personalized ones, improving consumer attitudes and behavioral intentions. Crucially, personalization works not because it feels intrusive, but because it increases perceived relevance. When consumers see ads that connect to their interests and identities, persuasion improves—making personalization a low-risk, high-reward strategy when done well.

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Multicultural Conversations on Handling the Hard Stuff (Event Summary)

  • SALON SERIES

Navigating the Messy Middle: Multicultural Conversations on Handling the Hard Stuff – Particularly During a Crisis  This virtual Salon, hosted by the ARF Cultural Effectiveness Council was moderated by Janelle James, Qualitative Research Director, Kantar. Janelle was joined by Kendra Clarke, Vice President of Data Science and Product Development, sparks & honey, and Ola Mobolade, Founder at COCO and Co-author of “Marketing to the New Majority”. Editor’s Note: The full summary is available to members only.

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