Why can’t I see the Google tag when I try to install it on the conversion?

Short Answer: You may not see the Google tag code during installation because Google has recently changed how tags are deployed. Instead of providing a separate code snippet to add to each conversion page header, Google now encourages installing Google Tag Manager once. Then, you can manage conversion tracking events on specific pages through Tag Manager.

Full Explanation

Google has updated its tagging system to simplify how tracking codes are managed on websites. Previously, when installing conversion tracking, Google provided a snippet of code to place in the header section of every relevant page. Now, the system may not display this individual piece of code at all.

Instead, Google is moving towards a streamlined method where you only need to install Google Tag Manager once on your entire website. Google Tag Manager acts as a container for all your tags, including conversion tracking. Once it’s installed, you can create and deploy specific events or tags on particular pages without manually inserting code into each page’s header.

Step-by-Step Breakdown

1. Install Google Tag Manager: Add the Google Tag Manager code snippet once to your website, typically in the header or body, as instructed.
2. Create Conversion Events in Tag Manager: Within Google Tag Manager, set up conversion tracking events tailored to your target actions.
3. Assign Events to Specific Pages: Configure the triggers to fire your conversion tags only on required pages, such as thank you pages after a form submission.
4. Publish Changes: After configuration, publish your container so the changes take effect on your website.

Real Examples

Imagine you want to track a purchase confirmation page. Instead of inserting a Google-provided code snippet directly on that page’s header, you install Google Tag Manager across your site. Then within Tag Manager, create a conversion tag that activates only when users reach the purchase confirmation URL. This method centralizes and simplifies your tag management.

Common Mistakes

• Expecting to see the old individual Google tag code for conversions and searching for it unnecessarily.
• Trying to add separate code snippets on multiple pages instead of using Google Tag Manager.
• Not configuring or publishing triggers correctly inside Tag Manager, leading to no conversion data.
• Ignoring the recent system changes and continuing old implementation methods.

FAQs

Do I still need to add any code to my website manually?

Yes, but typically only once to install Google Tag Manager. After that, conversion tags are managed within the Tag Manager interface.

Can I use Google Tag Manager for all my tags and conversions?

Yes, Google Tag Manager is designed to handle multiple tags, simplifying management and reducing the need for manual code changes on the website.

Why did Google make this change?

The change aims to streamline tag deployment, reduce errors, and make it easier to manage tracking across websites.

Key Takeaways

• Google no longer always shows a separate tag code snippet for conversion installs.
• Google Tag Manager is now the preferred method for managing conversion events.
• Install Google Tag Manager once, then configure conversion tags in its dashboard.
• This update simplifies the tagging process and ensures more flexible event management.