Should you run Google ads?

Feb 19

Google Ads can be a powerful tool for businesses looking to increase their online visibility and drive targeted traffic to their websites. But is it the right move for your business? Here’s a few things to consider before you spend money on Google Ads.

Reasons to Run Google Ads

1. Reach a Wider Audience

Google is the most popular search engine in use, with billions of searches conducted daily. Running Google Ads allows you to tap into this vast audience and increase your brand's exposure.

2. Targeted Advertising

Google Ads provides a range of targeting options, allowing you to reach specific audiences based on demographics, interests, and unique searches. This level of targeting ensures that your ads are shown to people who are more likely to be interested in your products or services, increasing the chances of conversion or sales.

3. Flexibility and Control

With Google Ads, you have full control over your advertising campaigns. You can set your budget, choose when and where your ads are shown, and easily measure the performance of your campaigns. This flexibility allows you to optimize your ads and make data-driven decisions to achieve the best results.

Reasons to Consider Alternatives

1. Cost

While Google Ads can be effective, it's important to consider the cost. Depending on your industry and competition, the cost-per-click (CPC) for certain keywords can be high, which may limit your budget and impact the overall ROI of your advertising efforts.

2. Learning Curve

Running successful Google Ads campaigns requires knowledge and expertise. It's essential to understand how to set up and optimize your campaigns effectively. If you don't have the time or resources to dedicate to learning and managing Google Ads, it may be challenging to achieve the desired results.

3. Competition

Depending on your industry, the competition for certain keywords and target audiences on Google Ads can be fierce. If you're in a highly competitive market, it may be challenging to stand out and achieve a positive return on your advertising investment.

3. Support Small and/or Local

Let’s face it, Google is a large corporation and sometimes you would just prefer to support a smaller or more local business. There are local publications and affinity groups based on your location, as well as other local sources for running ads that keep your ad dollars in your direct community. One of our favorites is Everywhereisqueer.com.

It's crucial to carefully evaluate your specific business needs, budget, and competition before deciding to invest in Google Ads. Consider the benefits and drawbacks. Do Google Ads align with your overall marketing goals and production goals? Remember, running successful advertising campaigns requires continuous monitoring, optimization, and adaptation to ensure optimal results.