How do I set up lead form tracking for Google Ads?

To set up lead form tracking for Google Ads, you first need to create a lead conversion category and configure it properly with consistent values. Then, implement specific tracking snippets site-wide and on your landing and thank you pages. The process can be streamlined if you use the HFCM plugin to manage your header and footer scripts.

Full Explanation

Lead form tracking in Google Ads involves defining a conversion event, typically categorized as a ‘lead.’ You start by naming the conversion event something clear and identifiable. It is important to use the same conversion value for each form submission to maintain consistency in tracking data. Google Ads provides snippets of code that you must add to your website to track these conversions effectively.

One tracking snippet should be placed globally on every page of your website to ensure proper data collection across the entire site. A separate snippet is needed exclusively on the landing page where customers submit the lead form. If you’re using the Header Footer Code Manager (HFCM) plugin with WordPress, you can create a new snippet entry, name it ‘Google Ads tracking,’ and insert this site-wide snippet into the header so it loads on all pages.

In addition to the site-wide snippet, you need to add a second snippet specifically for the ‘Thank you’ or confirmation page shown after a user completes the form. This snippet should be inserted before the content on that page. This setup enables Google Ads to record when a lead form is submitted successfully, helping you measure the performance of your ad campaigns accurately.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Select the lead category in Google Ads and create a lead conversion action.
2. Name the conversion action with an easily identifiable label.
3. Use the same value for each conversion to standardize tracking.
4. Copy the provided global tracking snippet and place it on all website pages.
5. If you use the HFCM plugin, add a new entry named ‘Google Ads tracking’ and paste the global snippet into the header for site-wide deployment.
6. Save the changes in HFCM to ensure the snippet loads on every page.
7. Copy the conversion snippet specific for the thank you page.
8. Add this thank you page snippet before the page content on the confirmation or thank you page only.

Real Examples

For instance, if you choose “Lead Form Submission” as your conversion category and name it “Contact Form Lead,” you will assign the same value such as “1” for every submission. The global snippet gets added universally to all pages, ensuring Google sees every potential user interaction. The thank you page snippet activates only after a form has been submitted, signaling a successful lead.

Common Mistakes

• Failing to use a consistent conversion value can cause inaccurate data reporting.
• Not placing the global snippet on all pages means some user activity might not be tracked.
• Missing the thank you page snippet leads to Google Ads not recording completed conversions.
• Incorrect placement of snippets outside of the header or in improper sections of the page can prevent tracking from functioning.
• Neglecting to save changes when using the HFCM plugin can result in snippets not appearing on your site.

FAQs

Why is the same conversion value important?

Using the same value for each conversion helps maintain consistent tracking and reporting within Google Ads.

Can I add the global snippet without a plugin?

Yes, but using the HFCM plugin simplifies managing snippets and ensures they appear site-wide.

Where exactly should the thank you page snippet be placed?

The thank you page snippet should be placed before the main content on your confirmation or thank you page.

What if the snippet isn’t working?

Check that snippets are correctly placed, saved, and that the conversion category and values are consistent.

Key Takeaways

• Define a clear lead conversion action and name it for easy identification.
• Use consistent conversion values for each submission to maintain accurate data.
• Place the global tracking snippet on every page of your website.
• Use tools like the HFCM plugin to insert site-wide scripts efficiently in WordPress.
• Add a thank you page snippet specifically on the confirmation page after form submission.
• Proper placement and saving of tracking snippets are essential for accurately measuring leads in Google Ads.