Google AdWords for Small Business
Online ads have become big business for small business owners who have either just launched websites or who want to see more traffic on their existing sites. They want their target markets to find them quickly and easily. This is where Google AdWords can help small businesses create effective ads to reach their customers online.
In a recent article for Business 2 Community, Ben Cohen talks about how small businesses should develop solid strategies when using Google AdWords. Cohen says, “Even with a small budget, you can get impressions and clicks on Google with a smart account structure and the right targeting options.” Cohen goes on to explain how small businesses are able to reap the same advertising benefits as their larger B2B counterparts – all from creating and properly using ads through Google AdWords.
Image via CrunchBaseA new Google AdWords user probably has a few questions to ask and have answered before they get started. These are a few common questions, along with some answers, to help explain the fundamentals.
What exactly is Google AdWords?
Google describes it as their own online advertising program product. The Google AdWords system suggests keywords, then allows its users to assemble text ads with the keywords they decide upon. People can then target ads to the online markets they prefer and have their ads appear where and when they decide. VirtualNet Marketing, a Google AdWords certified partner, defines the system well by saying, “Google Adwords is the system Google has developed to assist you in marketing your products or services in the Google Search Engine, and its affiliate sites, via the use of a placed text ad that appears when people search for phrases related to your offering, this appears as a “sponsored link.” The product also provides excellent reporting and tracking tools so you immediately know what is working…or not.
How do I gain access to Google AdWords?
Once you sign up for your own Google account, you can immediately access Google AdWords. From there, you have the power to easily create your own online ads through Google AdWords.
How do I set up ads using Google AdWords?
Google provides step-by-step directions for walking you through the Google AdWords process. The directions are helpful and fairly easy to follow. You can possibly set up your ad in a matter of minutes. The process involves deciding on things such as which keywords to use, who you want to target, how long you want your ad to run and how much money you want to spend. Since these intensive details make the process potentially complex and time-consuming, you should be prepared to spend an ample amount of time so you develop an ad which completely meets your needs and expectations.
I put an ad together that really stinks. Am I stuck with it?
Not at all. All you need to do is sign into your Google AdWords account and modify your text. You can also delete, pause and reactivate ads as often as you like.
Do I need to spend a lot of money to use Google AdWords?
You are able to budget as little or as much as you need to run your ad campaign. Keep in mind that when you set up PPC (pay-per-click) ads, you are paying for each time your ad is clicked…even when someone clicks it accidentally. Just like going to a casino, it is wise to start with a budget. Using Google AdWords can seem like gambling; in essence, you are going to place bids on how much your ad is going to be clicked. Know exactly how much you are able to spend and stick to that amount. It is easy to get caught up in the complexities of choosing the proper keywords and such. The product includes keyword planners and performance indicators which help you keep your budget intact, as long as you use them properly.
Many small businesses use and have successfully gained clients through creating and managing online ads with Google AdWords. What are your experiences with using it? I would be glad to hear your thoughts about Google AdWords. Email me at jenn@jplussocial.com or tweet me at @jennghanford any time.
