Thursday, October 2, 2008

How to Make PPC Advertising Effective

By Brian Basch

The most effective method of marketing your business is advertising your products and services using a PPC (pay per click) campaign. It is important to do this with a thorough planning model, paying attention to all the details of what you are advertising. This type of planning allows you to avoid pitfalls and won't cost you money that doesn't need to be spent. Here are great PPC tips to help you get started and you will get all the benefits of this advertising method without the downsides.

Step one is picking the right keywords. Most people think it's best to choose an extremely common keyword. This couldn't be further from the truth - a common keyword may get you a lot of clicks, but it's hard to get, requiring a higher bid. On top of that, people clicking on a more general keyword are less likely to buy, since they're probably just starting their search. The best way to get a wide, appropriate audience for the lowest cost is to use a targeted keyword phrase, also referred to as a long tail keyword.

Search Google or another search engine that will give you a few ideas to try with your own PPC campaign. Specific phrases or keywords allow your campaign more latitude and using some of the available tools for AdWords is a great assistance when trying to find out what works. You can test your keywords this way or just try seeing where you score on a Google search.

Once you're certain you've got a good keyword list, it's time to design your ad. After all, even the best keywords can't save a poor ad. You need a compelling headline to interest a potential customer, and copy that encourages him or her to click and find out more. Make sure your ad is an accurate description of your product or service, to avoid clicks that don't lead to sales.

Your advertising copy should have a sense of urgency as well as the benefits of the products and services you offer. Letting your customer know that by responding to the ad and making a purchase will get them a special deal always acts as a sweetener. Limited time offers are an excellent choice also.

Trying to get the highest ranking on a search page is where you need to really look at negatives and positives. It's true that many people click on that first-ranked ad. That could mean more sales for you, but it could also mean empty clicks, as visitors realize they were looking for something else. Don't waste resources by putting all of your eggs in the one basket here. Focus on targeted advertising aimed directly at your audience.

Pay attention to the competition, too. Adjust your keywords and ad copy according to what appears to be working for them, although direct copying should be avoided. Check the results of each keyword set and the ads associated with it to find out which ones are working, and which aren't.

There are no guarantees when it comes to PPC ads, but the right, targeted campaign could be the key to your success. Make sure you know what you're doing, and make the appropriate changes to your marketing to help your campaign get off the ground. You'll find you're reaching the right people, and making a lot more sales. - 15275

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