Introduction
Running Google Ads can help businesses grow by bringing more visitors to their websites. However, making mistakes in Google Ads campaigns can waste money and reduce results. In this guide, we will discuss seven common mistakes people make in Google Ads and how to fix them. By avoiding these mistakes, you can improve your campaign results and get the most from your budget.
1. Using the Wrong Conversion Actions
What is the Mistake?
Many advertisers set conversion actions incorrectly. Some track low-value actions like page views instead of tracking meaningful goals like sales, leads, or bookings. This mistake can lead to poor optimization and wasted money.
How to Fix It
- Focus on meaningful conversion actions such as completed purchases, lead form submissions, or phone calls.
- Set up conversion actions in Google Ads by going to Tools & Settings > Conversions and following the steps to track key actions.
- Regularly check your conversion data to make sure it’s tracking the right goals.
2. Overusing Broad Match Keywords
What is the Mistake?
Broad match keywords can make your ads appear for unrelated search terms. This often leads to wasted budget and low-quality clicks.
How to Fix It
- Use exact match and phrase match keywords for better control.
- Regularly review the Search Terms Report to identify irrelevant search terms and add them to your negative keyword list.
- Combine broad match keywords with Smart Bidding only if you have enough conversion data for Google to optimize effectively.
3. Ignoring Negative Keywords
What is the Mistake?
Skipping negative keywords can result in your ads appearing for unrelated or low-value search terms.
How to Fix It
- Add common negative keywords like “free,” “cheap,” or “DIY” if your product or service doesn’t match those queries.
- Use the Search Terms Report to find new negative keywords to block irrelevant traffic.
- Regularly update your negative keyword list to improve campaign performance.
4. Poor Ad Copy and Weak CTAs
What is the Mistake?
Weak headlines, unclear offers, or missing calls to action (CTAs) can lead to low click-through rates (CTR).
How to Fix It
- Write clear and engaging headlines that focus on user benefits.
- Use CTAs like “Get Started,” “Book Now,” or “Claim Your Discount” to guide users.
- Highlight special offers, discounts, or benefits to make your ad more attractive.
5. Not Testing Ad Variations (A/B Testing)
What is the Mistake?
Many advertisers rely on a single ad variation without testing different versions. This limits learning about what works best.
How to Fix It
- Create 2-4 ad variations for each ad group with different headlines, descriptions, and CTAs.
- Run these ads for at least 30 days to gather enough data.
- Pause low-performing ads and replace them with new ideas to keep improving results.
6. Ignoring Landing Page Optimization
What is the Mistake?
Directing users to poorly designed landing pages or irrelevant pages can hurt your results.
How to Fix It
- Create dedicated landing pages that match your ad’s message and offer.
- Ensure your landing page loads quickly, is mobile-friendly, and has a clear CTA.
- Avoid distractions — keep the design simple and focused on conversion goals.
7. Spreading Budget Too Thin
What is the Mistake?
Dividing a small budget across too many campaigns can limit performance.
How to Fix It
- Focus on your best-performing campaigns or keyword groups.
- Increase budgets for campaigns that deliver good results.
- Pause underperforming campaigns until you have enough budget to test new ideas properly.
Bonus Tips for Google Ads Success
- Use Ad Extensions to improve your ad’s visibility with extra information like phone numbers, links, and offers.
- Set a routine to review your campaign performance every week.
- Focus on improving Quality Score by writing better ads, improving your landing page, and using relevant keywords.
Conclusion
Running a successful Google Ads campaign requires careful planning and regular monitoring. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can improve your campaign performance, attract the right audience, and achieve better results. Take the time to review your current campaigns and make the necessary changes today.
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