Radio Sales Café

From Donna Roach:

Years ago I used a free service I found on the internet to help me write 30 and 60 second spots. It used a word counter to compute the length of time the commercial would take. Does anyone know if that type of service is still available? I have not been able to locate it. Thanks!  

This is the one I use https://edgestudio.com/words-to-time-calculator/

I'm in a small market station that sells mostly 30s, because they always have. We're not sticklers at spots being exactly 30s, so a few extra seconds is no big deal to us.

As a rule I was taught a 30 second commercial was about 75 to 90 words and double for a 60. 

I was taught 8 typewritten lines was a 30. My question was the margin, font size and such. It seems most typewriters were 12 point font sizes and margins generally an inch meaning 5.5 inches of typed lines of 55 characters/spaces. 

The most specific I have seen is an NPR station. They go with syllable count: 75 to a 15 second Underwriter Announcement. Their rule of thumb is 5 syllables per second. I found it hard to 'count syllables' but the accuracy is incredible. So often our copywriting might include $1.99 or 10 digit phone and so forth, this syllable count works best of all. And 5 syllables a second is a pretty good pace.

Word has a word counter built in if you are writing your own, but ChatGPT writes to the length you ask for! 

Well some people are going to HATE this answer but here you go:
Try ChatGPT. Here is what I asked it for and here is what it returned:

Write me a 30 second radio ad for a Mexican restaurant that has nightly dinner specials:

Taste the sizzle of Mexico every night at your favorite local spot! Welcome to "El Sabroso," where the fiesta never ends. Join us for nightly dinner specials that'll transport your taste buds south of the border. From sizzling fajitas to mouthwatering enchiladas, our chefs craft authentic Mexican flavors that'll make your taste buds dance. Plus, with our Excel-like precision, we've got your wallet in mind too. So, bring your amigos, and let's spice up your evenings at "El Sabroso." Viva la comida deliciosa!

by the way I also asked it to write an ad for a radio sales rep:



Are you a dynamic, results-driven individual with a passion for sales? Join our team at [Radio Station Name]! We're on the hunt for a talented Salesperson to help us grow and thrive.

As part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to work with local businesses and connect them with our diverse audience of listeners. Your background in sales and your ability to excel in a fast-paced environment will be your greatest assets.

If you're ready to take your sales career to the next level, we want to hear from you. Join us at [Radio Station Name] and be a part of the exciting world of radio advertising. Apply today and let's make waves together!

Then I asked it to change to a specific place:





Are you a dynamic, results-driven individual in Sheboygan with a passion for sales? Join our team at [Radio Station Name]! We're on the lookout for a talented Salesperson to help us grow and thrive right here in Sheboygan.

As part of our team, you'll have the opportunity to work closely with local businesses in Sheboygan, connecting them with our diverse audience of listeners. Your background in sales and your ability to excel in a fast-paced environment will be your greatest assets as you strengthen our presence in this vibrant community.

If you're ready to take your sales career to the next level in Sheboygan, we want to hear from you. Join us at [Radio Station Name] and be a key player in the exciting world of radio advertising right here in Sheboygan. Apply today and let's make waves together!

Okay last one I promins: I asked CHATGPT to write an ad about why your should visit Door County WI.
Remember when you read this ad that all I gave CHAT GPT was this prompt : "write me a 30 second add for radio about Door County, WI"




Voiceover: Are you ready for an adventure that's as sweet as cherry pie? Discover the enchanting beauty of Door County, Wisconsin!

Background Music: Uplifting, folksy tune.

Voiceover: From the rolling waves of Lake Michigan to the charming streets of Sturgeon Bay, Door County offers a getaway like no other. Picture yourself hiking through lush forests, indulging in local wines, and savoring fresh fish boils by the water's edge.

Sound Effects: Gentle waves, laughter, and clinking glasses.

Voiceover: Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, an art lover, or a foodie, Door County has something for everyone. Don't miss the stunning sunsets at Peninsula State Park or the captivating performances at local theaters.

Sound Effects: Applause and a hint of birdsong.

Voiceover: It's time to escape the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary. Plan your Door County adventure today. Visit us online at DoorCounty.com or call 1-800-EXPLORE. Door County, Wisconsin – where memories are made, and beauty knows no bounds.

Background Music: Builds to an upbeat, inspiring finish.

The problem with all of these word counters, etc., is that they don't take into consideration timing, pace...75 words about a car sale are much different than 75 words about funeral home planning.

An old fashioned stop watch is hanging from my mic stand. Since I produce most of what I write, I always use the stopwatch and read the copy through at the pace indicated.

It's never failed me.