What is the process for tracking conversions?

Short Answer: The process for tracking conversions begins by ensuring that visitors who submit a landing page form are redirected to a thank you page. After this, you use a plugin to insert the Google tracking code, enabling Google to recognize and record that submission as a conversion.

Full Explanation

Tracking conversions effectively involves setting up a clear path for users completing a desired action, such as submitting a form on a landing page. The key is to make sure that once someone submits the form, they are immediately sent to a dedicated thank you page. This thank you page acts as a confirmation that the conversion event occurred. Next, by leveraging a plugin, you implement the Google tracking code onto your site. This code communicates with Google, signaling that a conversion has been made whenever the thank you page loads. Together, these steps enable accurate tracking and measurement of conversions.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

Redirect to Thank You Page: Configure your landing page settings so that after a form is submitted, users are redirected to a specifically created thank you page.
Install Tracking Plugin: Use a WordPress plugin that allows you to add custom scripts or codes easily to your site without editing core files.
Insert Google Tracking Code: Within the plugin, place the Google tracking code snippet obtained from your Google account. This code captures the conversion event when the thank you page loads.

Real Examples

Imagine you have a contact form on a landing page offering a free resource. When visitors fill out the form and submit it, they are taken to a thank you page saying, “Thank you for downloading!” At this point, the Google tracking code embedded via your plugin activates, signaling to Google that a conversion has occurred.

Common Mistakes

Not redirecting users to a thank you page after form submission, resulting in missed conversion tracking.
Failing to properly insert the Google tracking code, which causes Google not to register conversions.
Using incorrect plugins or methods that do not support code insertion, making tracking impossible.

FAQs

Q: Why is the thank you page important?
A: The thank you page serves as the trigger for the conversion event since the Google tracking code activates only when this page loads.

Q: Can I track conversions without a plugin?
A: While possible, using a plugin simplifies the process by avoiding manual code changes and reduces the chance of errors.

Key Takeaways

Redirect users to a thank you page after landing page submissions to mark a conversion point.
Utilize a plugin to smoothly implement Google’s tracking code.
This setup enables Google to accurately track and report conversions.