Reflection on My Television Advertisement Selections

Looking at my selection of television advertisements below, I’ve been drawn to commercials that showcase powerful social messages about inclusion and confronting bias. Each advertisement I’ve chosen reflects my deeply held values around creating a more equitable world.

In Microsoft’s “Changing the Game” Xbox Adaptive Controller ad, I valued how it championed inclusion in gaming for those with limited mobility. The powerful declaration that “Now everyone can play” resonated with me as it transformed an exclusive activity into an inclusive one, recognizing that everyone deserves access to the same experiences.

Google’s “See Sound” advertisement demonstrated how technology can bridge divides, specifically for those with hearing impairments. I appreciated its focus on using innovation to solve real human challenges, showing that technological advancement is most meaningful when it improves lives and promotes independence.

P&G’s “The Look” powerfully confronted racial bias through silent storytelling, asking us to see beyond our preconceptions. The ad’s invitation to have difficult conversations about bias reflected my belief that acknowledging problems is the first step toward solving them.

In “Love Over Bias,” P&G touched my heart by celebrating mothers who help their children overcome societal barriers in sports. The message “Imagine if the world could see what a mom sees” captured my conviction that empathy and unconditional support are powerful forces against prejudice.

HP’s “Reinvent the Mindset- Dads” boldly addressed gender bias in hiring through fathers’ reactions to the advice given to their daughters. Their commitment to training hiring managers to reduce unconscious bias aligned with my belief that awareness must lead to concrete action.

Throughout these selections, I’ve gravitated toward advertisements that don’t just sell products but promote understanding, challenge biases, and advocate for a more inclusive world – values I hold most dear. I hope you enjoy!

Microsoft Xbox Adaptive Controller “Changing the Game”

CHANGING THE GAME

1. Description

I selected Microsoft’s Xbox Adaptive Controller advertisement, which showcases their innovative controller designed specifically for gamers with limited mobility. What drew me to this ad was its powerful emotional appeal centered on inclusion and empowerment. I found it truly impactful that Microsoft chose to feature real children with limited mobility, sharing their genuine experiences. The authenticity of these stories created a strong emotional connection with me as a viewer. This commercial gained significant attention as a Super Bowl ad, even being mentioned in news clips as one of the top-rated commercials featuring “unforgettably charismatic young people.”

2. Campaign Objectives

I believe Microsoft’s campaign objectives were multilayered. From my analysis, their primary goal was to raise awareness about their innovative Xbox Adaptive Controller and how it addresses a significant gap in the gaming market. I also think Microsoft aimed to position itself as a brand that genuinely values inclusion and accessibility in technology. The campaign effectively demonstrates how thoughtful design can remove barriers and empower people with disabilities. In my assessment, these objectives were realistic and could be measured through controller sales, brand perception shifts, and public response to the advertisement.

3. Target Market

When I analyzed the target market for this advertisement, I identified several key groups. Most directly, it speaks to gamers with limited mobility and their families who are seeking solutions for full participation in gaming. I also noticed that the ad targets the broader gaming community, encouraging them to think about gaming accessibility. On a larger scale, I believe it addresses the general public, particularly those who value inclusive design and corporate social responsibility. By choosing to air this during the Super Bowl, I feel Microsoft ensured this message reached an enormous audience beyond typical gaming demographics.

4. Call to Action

What I found interesting about this advertisement is that it encourages viewers like me to recognize that gaming should be accessible to everyone. While I didn’t notice an explicit verbal call to purchase, the emotional impact of seeing children with disabilities successfully gaming delivers a powerful implicit message. For those with limited mobility or their families, I see the call to action as considering how the Xbox Adaptive Controller could transform their gaming experience. The benefit is clearly articulated through the children’s testimonials and summarized in the final line that resonated with me: “Now everyone can play.”

5. Value Proposition

In my analysis, the value proposition of the Xbox Adaptive Controller works on multiple levels. From a functional perspective, it offers specialized design features addressing the unique needs of gamers with limited mobility. I was impressed that the ad mentions how even the packaging is accessible “from the very beginning,” showing Microsoft’s comprehensive approach. Emotionally, I see that the controller offers users the opportunity to feel included and equal to other gamers, as emphasized by one child’s statement, “You can hit the buttons just as fast as they can.” From a social standpoint, I recognize how it enables children with disabilities to game alongside their peers, reducing isolation. One parent’s comment that their child “is not different when he plays” particularly struck me, highlighting the normalizing effect of accessible gaming. The final message, “Now everyone can play,” perfectly captures what I believe is the controller’s fundamental value: making gaming truly inclusive.

Google’s “See Sound” AD

1. Description

I selected Google’s “See Sound” advertisement, which introduces an innovative assistive technology device designed to help individuals with hearing impairments identify everyday sounds. What immediately captured my attention was the advertisement’s narrative structure, beginning with a person who can’t hear important audio cues like a fire alarm beeping or a child calling for help after falling downstairs. The ad uses a compelling problem-solution format that creates emotional concern and then relief. I found the technical explanation of how they used YouTube’s vast audio database fascinating – it showed how Google leveraged its existing resources in a creative way to solve a significant accessibility challenge.

2. Campaign Objectives

From my analysis, I believe Google’s campaign objectives were to introduce this groundbreaking assistive technology and position themselves as innovative problem-solvers in the accessibility space. I think they wanted to demonstrate how they’re applying their machine-learning expertise to create meaningful solutions for people with disabilities. The objectives appear attainable and measurable through product adoption rates, user feedback, and enhanced brand perception regarding accessibility initiatives. What impressed me was how they explained complex technology in relatable terms while emphasizing the potentially life-saving applications of the product.

3. Target Market

When I combed through the target market for this advertisement, I identified several groups. Most directly, it speaks to individuals with hearing impairments who struggle to identify important sounds in their environment. I also noticed it targets their family members and caregivers who worry about safety issues related to not hearing crucial alerts. Additionally, I believe the ad addresses technology enthusiasts who are interested in innovative applications of learning and artificial intelligence. The way the ad highlights both everyday conveniences and safety concerns suggests Google is positioning this product as essential technology rather than just an optional convenience.

4. Call to Action

What I found interesting about this advertisement is its call for viewers to recognize how technology can solve previously unsolvable problems. While there isn’t an explicit “buy now” message, the emotional scenarios presented create a compelling reason for those with hearing impairments to seek out this solution. The benefit is clearly presented: users can be alerted to important sounds ranging from convenience notifications to life-saving warnings. I was particularly moved by how the ad frames this technology as potentially life-changing, offering independence and peace of mind to users and their loved ones.

5. Value Proposition

In my overview, the See Sound device offers a multifaceted value proposition. Functionally, it distinguishes between 75 different sounds and sends notifications to a mobile device, providing comprehensive coverage that existing products can’t match. I was impressed by how the ad emphasizes that competing products only identify specific sounds (like smoke detectors), while See Sound can recognize diverse sounds, from microwaves to crying babies. The emotional value lies in increased safety, independence, and reduced anxiety for users and their families. What stands out to me is the sophistication hidden behind simple user experience – the ad specifically states that “while the technology is incredibly complex, the user experience couldn’t be more simple.” This combination of advanced capability with ease of use creates a real reason for adoption.

P&G’s “The Look”

1. Description

I selected Procter & Gamble’s powerful advertisement titled “The Look,” which addresses racial bias in America. What struck me most about this ad was its complete lack of dialogue until the very end, relying instead on visual storytelling and facial expressions to convey its message. The commercial follows a Black man through his daily life, experiencing subtle but painful instances of bias: a mother rolling up her car window when he walks by with his child, white people closing an elevator door as he approaches, diners choosing to sit away from him at a restaurant, and white children exiting a swimming pool when he and his son enter. The powerful twist comes at the end when we discover he’s actually a judge entering a courtroom. The ad concludes with the message, “Let’s talk about the look so we can see beyond it,” directing viewers to P&G’s website, talkaboutbias.com. I found this approach of showing rather than telling to be exceptionally effective at creating emotional impact.

2. Campaign Objectives

I believe P&G’s campaign objectives extended far beyond selling products. I think their primary goal was to spark meaningful conversations about unconscious bias and racial prejudice in everyday interactions. The advertisement aims to raise awareness about microaggressions that many Black Americans experience regularly, but that might go unnoticed by others. I feel P&G wanted to position themselves as a socially conscious brand committed to addressing difficult societal issues. These objectives are less about direct sales metrics and more about brand perception and social impact, which can be measured through engagement with their website, social media conversations, and shifts in public discourse about racial bias.

3. Target Market

Through analyzing the target market for this advertisement, I identified several audiences. Most broadly, it speaks to all Americans who may either experience or perpetuate unconscious bias. I believe it particularly targets white Americans who might not recognize how their subtle behaviors can impact others. The ad also validates the experiences of people of color who regularly encounter such biases. By addressing this universal social issue rather than promoting specific products, I feel P&G is representing themselves as a company with values that appeal to socially conscious consumers across demographics. The sophisticated handling of a complex topic suggests they’re targeting educated viewers who appreciate nuanced social commentary.

4. Call to Action

What I found most interesting about this advertisement is a call to action: “Let’s talk about the look so we can see beyond it.” The ad encourages viewers to acknowledge and discuss racial bias rather than ignore it. By directing viewers to talkaboutbias.com, P&G invites deeper engagement with the topic beyond the commercial itself. The benefit to the audience is framed as social progress—by having difficult conversations about bias; we can collectively work toward seeing beyond first impressions and stereotypes. I was particularly impressed by how the ad doesn’t shame viewers but instead invites them into a conversation, making the call to action more approachable despite addressing a challenging topic.

5. Value Proposition

In my analysis, the value proposition of this advertisement differs from typical product-focused commercials. Rather than highlighting product benefits, P&G offers social and emotional value and cares about addressing systemic inequality. The brand implicitly suggests that by supporting P&G, consumers align themselves with these progressive values. I believe the specific reasons that would drive customers to purchase P&G products based on this advertisement include a desire to support companies that take stands on social issues, an emotional connection to the message of racial equality, and an association with a brand that demonstrates social awareness. What stood out to me is how P&G connected their corporate values to broader social change, elevating their brand beyond mere products to a platform for meaningful dialogue.

P&G’s “Love Over Bias”

1. Description

I selected P&G’s touching “Love Over Bias” advertisement, which became my absolute favorite among all the TV commercials I viewed. The ad features a series of vignettes showing mothers supporting their children as they face various forms of bias in sports. What moved me deeply was the opening scene of a young Black girl jumping on her bed, gazing admiringly at posters of white champion skiers—her mother watching with a bittersweet smile that conveys both hope and concern. Set to the emotional backdrop of “Ooh Child,” the commercial continues with several powerful moments: a young figure skater with a black eye being embraced by his mother after being bullied for his colorfulness; a mother lovingly taping her son’s worn ice skates while wealthy children mock them; a girl cutting her hair short to fit in with hockey players; a mother crafting a beautiful costume for her daughter; and a boy with a prosthetic leg being pushed aside by other children, only to have his mother intervene. The ad beautifully comes full circle, showing the young Black girl, now grown, competing and winning as her proud mother watches. The closing message, “Imagine if the world could see what a mom sees. Love over bias,” followed by “Thank you, mom. P&G proud sponsors of moms,” brought tears to my eyes with its emotional resonance.

2. Campaign Objectives

As I watched this heartwarming advertisement, I felt that P&G’s campaign objectives went far beyond selling products. I believe they aimed to create an emotional connection with viewers by celebrating mothers’ unconditional love and support in the face of societal biases. The timing alongside the Olympic Games suggests P&G wanted to associate their brand with the universal values of perseverance, inclusion, and triumph over adversity. I feel they beautifully succeeded in positioning themselves as champions of diversity and inclusion, touching on issues of race, economic status, gender, sexual orientation, and disability without being heavy-handed. The objective seems to be building genuine emotional brand loyalty by honoring the pivotal role mothers play in helping their children overcome societal barriers—something that resonated deeply with me as I watched.

3. Target Market

When I reflected on the target market for this advertisement, I realized how masterfully P&G speaks to multiple audiences. Most directly, it touches the hearts of mothers who have supported their children through challenges and bias. I was moved by how it acknowledges mothers across diverse backgrounds who share the universal experience of wanting to protect their children while helping them pursue their dreams. The ad also gently addresses those who might harbor biases, inviting them to see athletes through a mother’s loving eyes. By featuring winter sports often associated with privilege, P&G effectively highlights issues of access and inclusion that transcend sports. The emotional storytelling approach suggests they’re targeting compassionate viewers who value empathy and inclusion—values I deeply connect with myself.

4. Call to Action

What touched me most about this advertisement is its gentle yet powerful call to action, as in the previous video: “Imagine if the world could see what a mom sees.” Rather than demanding change overtly, it invites viewers like me to shift our perspective and recognize the full humanity and potential in everyone, regardless of differences. The benefit to society is beautifully implied—a world with less bias and more understanding would allow everyone’s talents to flourish. I found myself genuinely moved by how the ad suggests that a mother’s love offers a perfect model for how we might all view one another: with unconditional acceptance and belief in potential. This message resonated with me on a deeply personal level, making me reflect on both how I’ve been supported and how I might better support others.

5. Value Proposition

P&G offers a value proposition that transcends products entirely. Rather than highlighting specific items, they associate their entire brand with the unmatched value of a mother’s love and support. The ad suggests that by supporting P&G, consumers align themselves with these nurturing, inclusive values. What touched my heart was how they connected everyday mothering moments—like the tender face-holding of a discouraged child or the protective embrace after bullying—to broader societal change. P&G positions mothers as everyday heroes who see beyond superficial differences to the potential within their children. By celebrating this perspective, P&G created a profoundly moving advertisement that made me feel connected to their brand through shared human values rather than product features. The slogan “proud sponsors of moms” beautifully reinforces that P&G doesn’t just sponsor Olympic athletes but honors the mothers who made their journeys possible despite societal barriers.

HP’s -Reinvent mindsets- Dad’s and Daughters

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1BpXmrzfkq

1. Description

I selected HP’s powerful advertisement titled “Reinvent mindsets- DADS,” which uses an innovative social experiment format to address gender bias in hiring. What captivated me immediately was the genuine emotional reactions from fathers as they read actual interview tips directed at women. The ad begins with dads awkwardly reading advice like “Don’t wear too much perfume,” “Don’t be aggressive,” and “Don’t look too hot” while their daughters listen. What makes this ad so effective is the authentic moment of realization that occurs when these fathers understand how their daughters are treated differently in professional settings. The fathers’ reactions range from confusion to daughters’ outrage, particularly when reading tips about hiding pregnancy or not appearing upset by sexist remarks. The commercial concludes with the fathers encouraging their daughters to be themselves and with HP’s powerful message about training hiring managers to reduce unconscious bias. I found the final line particularly moving when one father jokes that his daughter’s confidence must have come from her mother, showing his own reflection on gender assumptions.

2. Campaign Objectives

From my viewpoint, I believe HP’s campaign objectives are centered around beinga progressive company committed to workplace equality. I think they aimed to raise awareness about unconscious gender bias in hiring practices while simultaneously highlighting their own initiatives to combat this problem. The advertisement effectively demonstrates HP’s commitment to meritocracy with its statement that “talent is our only criterion.” What impressed me was how the campaign objectives extended beyond mere brand awareness to actually influencing societal conversations about workplace gender equality. These objectives are measurable through brand perception shifts, engagement with diversity initiatives, and potentially increased female applications to HP positions. The campaign cleverly links HP’s corporate values to broader social change in a way that feels authentic rather than opportunistic.

3. Target Market

I identified several areas while watching this clip. Most directly, it speaks to working women who have experienced gender bias in hiring processes, validating their experiences and positioning HP as an ally. I also believe the ad effectively targets hiring managers and business leaders who might recognize their own unconscious biases through the fathers’ reactions. Additionally, parents of daughters represent another significant audience who may be inspired to challenge gender stereotypes. What I found particularly effective was how the ad appeals to both emotional and rational decision-makers by combining touching father-daughter moments with clear corporate policy statements. By addressing unconscious bias so directly, HP seems to be positioning itself as an employer of choice for progressive professionals across gender lines.

4. Call to Action

What I found really interesting about this advertisement is its layered call to action – which seems to be a theme I decided upon in my favorite choices of TV ads.. For potential employees, especially women, the implicit message is to consider HP as an employer that values talent regardless of gender. For current hiring managers everywhere, the call is to examine their own biases. For fathers of daughters, the invitation is to support and empower their children to challenge systemic inequalities. The benefit to all audiences is a more fair and meritocratic workplace. I was particularly moved by how the ad doesn’t just identify a problem but also presents a solution through HP’s training of hiring managers. This positions the company not just as aware of bias issues but actively working to address them, making their call to action more credible and compelling.

5. Value Proposition

HP’s value proposition works on multiple levels. Functionally, they position themselves as a company that hires based solely on talent, suggesting that working for HP means being valued for your skills rather than judged by gender stereotypes. Emotionally, they offer a workplace culture of respect and equality. What particularly resonated with me was how the ad connects personal family relationships to professional environments, suggesting that the respect we want for our loved ones should extend to all workplace interactions. The specific reasons that would drive candidates to seek employment at HP include their explicit commitment to reducing bias through training and their public stance on gender equality. By tackling a serious workplace issue with both emotional authenticity (through the father-daughter relationships) and practical solutions (through their hiring manager training), HP creates a solid reason for talented professionals, particularly women, to consider them as an employer of choice.