How do I set up a new campaign in Google Ads?

To set up a new campaign in Google Ads, start by creating a campaign without using the goals guidance. Then choose the campaign type focused on ‘website and phone calls,’ enter your website URL, and add any call extension number if you have one. Next, name your campaign and decide between ‘manual CPC’ or ‘dynamic CPC’ bidding strategies. Set your maximum cost per click, disable the Display Network to focus your ads, and configure your location targeting with options for advanced location search.

Full Explanation

Beginning a Google Ads campaign without the goals guidance means you have more control over the campaign settings rather than relying on Google’s recommended goals. Selecting the ‘website and phone calls’ option helps direct the campaign towards driving traffic to your website and encouraging calls, which are common objectives for many advertisers.

Inputting your website URL ensures that the ads will direct potential customers to your site, while adding a call extension number allows users to call your business directly from the ad, increasing convenience and potentially conversion rates.

Choosing between manual CPC and dynamic CPC bidding strategies determines how you manage your cost-per-click. Manual CPC lets you control bids for each click manually, providing greater control over your budget. Dynamic CPC allows Google’s system to adjust bids automatically to maximize results within your set limits.

Setting a maximum cost per click enables you to control how much you are willing to spend on each click. Disabling the Display Network ensures your ads appear only in search results, which can help tighten your campaign focus.

Finally, configuring your location settings allows your ads to target specific geographic areas. You can enter locations manually or use advanced search options to fine-tune the areas you want your ads to appear.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Create a new campaign and choose the option to set it up without goals guidance.
2. Select the campaign type focused on ‘website and phone calls.’
3. Enter your website URL to direct traffic.
4. If applicable, add a call extension number for direct calls from the ad.
5. Name your campaign clearly to identify it later.
6. Choose your bidding strategy: either manual CPC or dynamic CPC.
7. Set your maximum cost per click to control spending.
8. Disable the Display Network to limit ads to search results only.
9. Set your location targeting; add additional locations if needed, using the advanced search feature to refine targeting.

Real Examples

While specific examples are not provided here, this setup approach applies broadly to businesses that want to drive website visits and phone inquiries through Google Ads. Whether you choose manual CPC to control bids or dynamic CPC to have bids adjusted automatically, this structure supports optimizing your campaign costs and targeting.

Common Mistakes

• Using goals guidance, which may limit your customization choices.
• Failing to input the correct website URL or forgetting to add a call extension when calls are a key objective.
• Not choosing the appropriate bidding strategy, potentially leading to inefficient spending.
• Leaving the Display Network enabled when you only want ads to appear in search results, causing wasted impressions.
• Neglecting to configure location settings properly, which can result in ads showing to irrelevant audiences.

FAQs

Why should I create a campaign without goals guidance?

This option gives you more control over each setting in your campaign rather than relying on Google’s predefined goals.

What is the difference between manual CPC and dynamic CPC?

Manual CPC allows you to set your bids per click manually, while dynamic CPC lets Google adjust your bids automatically within your maximum cost limits to try to get you the best results.

Why disable the Display Network?

Disabling the Display Network focuses your ads on search results, which can improve relevance and reduce wasted ad spend.

How do I target specific locations?

You can set location targeting by selecting options manually or by using the advanced search tool to enter multiple or more precise locations.

Key Takeaways

• Start by creating a campaign without goals guidance for greater control.
• Select ‘website and phone calls’ to focus your campaign objectives.
• Input your website and optionally a call extension to connect better with users.
• Choose between manual and dynamic CPC bidding strategies according to your preference.
• Set maximum CPC to manage your cost per click.
• Disable the Display Network to keep your ads focused on search results.
• Carefully set your location targeting and use advanced search to refine your audience reach.