In the complex world of online marketing, pay-per-click (PPC) advertising has become a critical tool for driving website traffic and generating leads. However, not all PPC campaigns are created equal, and the difference often lies in the management behind the scenes. When you’re ready to hand over the reins of your PPC strategy to a management company, you’re making a decision that could dramatically impact your company’s success.
This comprehensive guide is for the small business owner who is keen to find the right PPC management Company. By the end, you’ll be equipped with all the necessary questions to ask and red flags to watch out for, ensuring you find a partner that aligns with your business goals and values.
Understand the Basics of PPC Advertising
Before you even begin your search for a PPC management company, it’s important to have a firm grasp of the basics of PPC advertising. This knowledge will help you ask pertinent questions and understand the responses.
What is PPC?
PPC is an online advertising model where advertisers pay a fee each time one of their ads is clicked. Essentially, it’s a way of buying visits to your site, rather than attempting to “earn” those visits organically.
The PPC Process
A typical PPC process involves keyword research, ad creation, landing page optimization, bid management, and ongoing analysis and optimization. It’s an intricate dance that requires skill and strategic thinking.
Determine Your Needs and Budget
Everybody’s business objectives and financial capabilities are different. Therefore, you must ascertain what you need from a PPC management company and how much you can afford to spend.
Identifying Your Objectives
Are you looking to increase website traffic? Drive sales for a particular product line? Perhaps you simply want to raise brand awareness. Identifying these objectives is crucial in the PPC strategy development.
Setting a Realistic Budget
Setting a budget that is both realistic and aligned with your objectives helps in narrowing down your search for a PPC management company. Be upfront about your budget during conversations so they can tailor a plan to fit your needs.
See also: Open Doors, Open Opportunities: Maximising Open House Events
Research Potential PPC Management Companies
With your needs and budget in mind, start looking for potential PPC management companies. There are a lot of fish in the sea, so you’ll want to be methodical in your search.
Industry Experience
Experience within your industry can provide insight and shortcuts to success. A company that already understands your market and audience can be the differentiator you need.
Testimonials and Case Studies
Always look for testimonials and case studies from previous clients. These can give you a feel for the company’s performance, approach, and results.
The Right Questions to Ask
Once you’ve identified a handful of potential candidates, it’s time to start asking the right questions. Here are some that you should include in your repertoire:
What Is Your Approach to PPC Campaign Management?
Understanding the company’s overall approach will give you a sense of their strategy and work ethic. Do they focus on keywords, or do they have a more comprehensive view of PPC advertising?
- For example, a good answer might include a focus on data-driven decisions and campaign flexibility to adapt to market changes rapidly.
Can You Tell Me About a Successful Campaign You Managed in Our Industry?
This question will help you gauge their industry expertise and their capacity for targeting campaigns based on your specific needs and market.
- An ideal response would include specific details about targeting, ad copy, and conversion rate optimization tailored to a similar client they’ve worked with.
What Tools and Technologies Do You Utilize to Manage PPC Campaigns?
The right tools can make all the difference in campaign management. A company staying ahead in the technology race is likely to provide more efficient and effective services.
- A response that includes the use of platforms like Google Ads and Bing Ads is a given. However, a mention of proprietary data analytics and reporting tools could be a sign of an innovative approach.
How Do You Measure the Success of a PPC Campaign?
This question will reveal the company’s metrics for success, which should align with your own KPIs and goals.
- An answer should include metrics such as CPC, CPA, ROAS, and other advanced tracking principles. They should also discuss A/B testing and performance against industry benchmarks.
Can You Explain Your Process for Onboarding a New Client?
The way a company brings on new clients can reveal how they value the relationship and potential success.
- A response should outline a thorough onboarding process that includes understanding your business, setting expectations, and identifying key stakeholders on both sides.
What Is Your Communication Style and How Do You Report on Campaign Performance?
Regular and transparent communication is critical in a successful PPC partnership. You need to be aware of how often you’ll hear from your PPC company and what kind of information they provide.
- An ideal response would include a weekly or biweekly meeting/call, a monthly report, and a 24/7 access to an online dashboard with real-time performance data.
How Will You Handle Negative Keywords or Ad Spend Waste in Our Campaigns?
Wasting money in PPC can happen when negative keywords aren’t effectively managed or when campaigns aren’t closely monitored for ROI.
- Look for a response that includes regular audit schedules and proactive management to cut wasted spend and increase overall efficiency.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
While the right answers are important, the wrong ones or dodging questions can also be telltale signs that a PPC management company may not be the best fit for you.
Lack of Transparency
If a company is not willing to share their methods, tools, or campaign details, this could indicate they have something to hide.
Unrealistic Promises
Guarantees of certain placements or outcomes are red flags. The nature of PPC means that outcomes can’t be 100% guaranteed.
Poor Client References
Reputable companies should readily provide you with references. If they don’t, it could be a sign that their client satisfaction is not where it should be.
Inflexible Services
PPC management should be as dynamic as the market it operates in. If a company offers a one-size-fits-all package or refuses to pivot strategies, they might not be adaptable enough.
Understand the Contract
Once you’ve narrowed your search and found a company you’re interested in, it’s essential to review the contract thoroughly before signing.
Exclusivity and Ownership
Be clear about who will own the PPC accounts created and whether there’s an exclusivity clause that could limit your choices in the future.
Cancellation Policy
Understand what happens if you’re not satisfied with the service and want to terminate the agreement.
Performance Clauses
Some contracts may include performance standards that trigger more significant payments. Be cautious and make sure these are realistic.
Trial Periods and Starting Small
Some companies offer trial periods, and starting small with a PPC management company can be a good way to test the waters before committing to a long-term contract.
Evaluating the Trial Period
Use the trial period to assess how the company works and whether they’re a good fit for your business. It’s an opportunity to see their results and get a feel for their communication style.
Leveraging the Small Start
When starting small, focus on a particular campaign or a set of services. This allows for more flexibility if you decide it isn’t working out.
Conclusion
Choosing the right PPC management company is a significant decision that can have far-reaching implications for your business. By understanding the essence of PPC, assessing your needs and budget, researching diligently, asking the right questions, and being aware of red flags, you’re well on your way to forging a successful partnership in the realm of PPC advertising. Be thorough in your approach, and remember that finding the right fit takes time — but the dividends of a great PPC campaign management partner will be well worth the effort.
