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  • ๐Ÿ› Tools that simplify Google Ads for Media Buyers: How I save time and boost efficiency

๐Ÿ› Tools that simplify Google Ads for Media Buyers: How I save time and boost efficiency

Since entering the world of digital marketing, I have been involved in numerous projects, ranging from tracking and media buying to onboarding and project management. Each role required efficiency and minimal time consumption, prompting me to learn various tools of the trade that simplify Google Ads advertising for media buyers. ๐Ÿš€

Author:
Dejan Bovan, Senior Media Buyer

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Letโ€™s deep diveโ€ฆ

Step one: Account setup ๐Ÿ› ๏ธ

Before diving into media buying, ensure the following essentials are in place:

  1. Billing is set ๐Ÿ’ณ

  2. Conversion tracking is configured ๐Ÿ“Š

  3. The YouTube channel is connected ๐ŸŽฅ

  4. GA4 is set up and connected to Google Ads ๐Ÿ”—

  5. Funnel is ready and double-checked ๐Ÿ›’

  6. A backend tracking system is in place ๐Ÿ–ฅ๏ธ

  7. UTM parameters are defined ๐Ÿ“

  8. GMC is set up and connected ๐Ÿฌ

Note on tracking: Maintain a single account goal and primary action. Through testing, I've found that optimizing around the main goal yields better results compared to multiple conversions. Additionally, map your customer journey in conversion tracking (e.g., Landing Page View, Add to Cart, Begin Checkout) to monitor drop-offs and identify issues, saving money and improving performance. ๐Ÿ› ๏ธ

For more accurate insights, use a backend tracking system, as multiple advertising channels often overreport conversions. Your bank account will ultimately show your true performanceโ€”whether you're doing well or not. ๐Ÿ’ฐ

Recommendation on tracking platforms: Platforms like Hyros, RedTrack, and Everflow are all effective. For in-depth backend data, consider developing a custom system.

Tip: Keep the conversion goal setup at the account level to streamline campaign creation and avoid repetitive tasks. โœ…

UTM parameters: Ensure you understand the UTM tracking hierarchy in Google Ads to benefit both CRM and tracking platforms. ๐Ÿ“ˆ

Step two: Launching campaigns ๐Ÿš€

Once technically prepared, move to campaign launching. Key considerations include:

  • Type of offer (One-time purchase or not) ๐Ÿ›๏ธ

  • Target audience ๐ŸŽฏ

  • Budget ๐Ÿ’ธ

  • Campaign type ๐Ÿ—‚๏ธ

  • Performance goals ๐ŸŽฏ

Notes on targeting: Understand whether your offer is broad or niche to determine your target audience. For example, target ages 65+ for elderly supplements or homeowners for homesteading courses. Also, use exclusion lists wisely for one-time purchases or recent purchasers to optimize ad space. ๐Ÿง 

Tip: Be mindful of policy violations, as they can restrict your ad spend. ๐Ÿšซ

Budget and performance evaluation ๐Ÿ’ต

Google recommends evaluating performance over 4-6 weeks with 10x your target CPA. However, a practical approach might involve spending at least 1.5x your target CPA before making judgments. Adjust based on comfort and budget to prevent unnecessary loss. ๐Ÿ“‰

Campaign type: Start with search and shopping campaigns for stability and profitability. For growth and scale, video campaigns are powerful but budget-intensive. ๐ŸŽฅ

Tip: Monitor video campaign impact on search (brand) performance to assess incrementality. ๐Ÿ‘€

Step three: Speed up โฉ

Efficiency is crucial, especially when managing multiple accounts. Two essential tools are:

  • Set up to filter account data quickly. โšก

  • Analyze performance across various dimensions with a click. ๐Ÿ“Š

  • Replicate setups for different accounts easily. ๐Ÿ“‘

Tip: Looker Studio can significantly enhance analysis speed and future planning. ๐Ÿง 

  1. Google Ads Editor:

    • Improves quality of life with fast, safe edits. โœจ

    • Functions like Excel for data handling. ๐Ÿ“‹

    • Allows safe background editing before posting changes. ๐Ÿ“

Tip: Easy to learn, free, fast, and a must-have for efficient campaign management. โœ…


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Dejan Bovan, Senior Media Buyer

Having started out at Inceptly as a tracking whizz and a certified GTM, GDS, and Segment expert, Dejan then transitioned into media buying. His background and analytical mindset now help him spot and take advantage of untapped opportunities for our clients.

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