Topics: Google Ads

Hire the Right Google Ads Agency in 2023: The Ultimate Guide to Supercharging Your Google Ads Performance

In 2023, hiring the right Google Ads agency is incredibly important. As digital advertising becomes more saturated and complex, partnering with a seasoned agency can be the difference between a lackluster campaign and a roaring success. But how do you navigate the vast sea of Google Ads agencies and find the perfect one for your company? In this comprehensive guide, we will give you all the knowledge, insights, and step-by-step strategies required to hire the right Google Ads agency in 2023.

hire a google ads agency blog header

What are Google Ads?

Google Ads is an auction-based advertising system that allows advertisers to bid on specific keywords relevant to their business. These ads then appear alongside organic search results when users enter those keywords into the Google search engine. 

What sets Google Ads apart is its reach, enabling businesses to target potential customers at the exact moment they are actively searching for a similar product across Google properties. 

Whether it's text-based search ads, display ads on websites, or engaging video ads on YouTube, Google Ads offers tons of ad formats for different marketing objectives. The platform offers highly-sophisticated targeting options, allowing advertisers to target their audience based on demographics, interests, locations, and even specific devices. 

Running Google Ads in 2023

In 2023, running Google Ads campaigns can be quite challenging. 

One of the primary hurdles is the increasing competition within the platform. As more businesses recognize the power of Google Ads, the marketplace becomes more saturated. This makes it harder to stand out and capture the attention of your target audience. 

The ever-evolving nature of Google's algorithms and ad policies means that staying updated and compliant requires continuous learning, management, and optimization. 

Keeping up with the latest changes, and understanding ad placements, bidding strategies, and audience targeting can be overwhelming, especially for businesses without dedicated in-house expertise, or new business owners.

Budget management is another common concern. Ineffective campaign structures or bad keyword targeting can lead to wasted ad spend and limited return on investment. Google Ads also require monitoring and optimization according to your KPIs.

Finally, accurately measuring the success of Google Ads campaigns and attributing conversions can pose a significant challenge. There are multiple touchpoints and interactions across different devices and channels. These obstacles require a strategic approach and, in many cases, the assistance of a knowledgeable Google Ads agency to unlock the full potential of your advertising efforts.

What are the most common problems with Google Ads agencies?

When it comes to working with Google Ads agencies, there are a few common problems that companies may encounter. 

One challenge is poor communication. Some ad agencies may struggle to effectively communicate with their clients. This leads to misunderstandings and a lack of transparency. That’s why at Presnt, each client gets a customized dashboard to track, request, and manage their work for us.

Another issue is the lack of experience or knowledge. Not all agencies have the necessary skills to optimize Google Ads campaigns effectively. This can result in wasted ad spend and poor performance. Now it’s a good time to mention that Presnt is Google Ads Partner and a Certified Agency.

Some agencies may prioritize their own interests over the success of their clients. They may focus more on generating revenue for themselves rather than delivering value to the clients. Lots of agencies are understaffed and have too many clients. While this way they maximize revenue, it often leads to delivering poor results in the long term.

Another problem is the lack of flexibility and adaptability. Google Ads platform changes all the time. That’s why strategies and bids need to be adjusted regularly. Unfortunately, some agencies may fail to adapt to changes and keep up with best practices. 

Lastly, pricing can be a concern. Some agencies may charge huge fees without delivering the expected results. It's one of the problems of ad agencies. You never know what you get until you start working with them.

You can check out what we can do with our Free Trial.

How to hire the right Google Ads Agency?

Google Ads requires a deep understanding of algorithms, advanced targeting options, and optimization techniques. That's where the expertise of a reliable Google Ads agency comes into play. But, how do you choose the right one? Let’s get right into it.

1. Define Your Goals and Objectives

Before searching for a Google Ads agency, it's important to have a clear understanding of your advertising goals and objectives. Ask yourself: Are you looking to increase brand awareness, drive website traffic, generate leads, or boost conversions? By defining your goals upfront, you can effectively communicate your expectations to potential agencies and evaluate their ability to help you accomplish them.

2. Conduct Thorough Research

Once you've defined your goals, it's time to conduct extensive research to identify reputable Google Ads agencies that specialize in your industry or niche. Start by looking for recommendations from trusted sources (industry peers, business networks, or online communities). You can also explore online directories, review websites, and case studies to gather valuable insights into each ad agency's track record. This phase will help you narrow down your options to a shortlist of agencies that have a proven track record.

3. Evaluate Expertise and Specializations

When assessing potential Google Ads agencies, it's crucial to evaluate their expertise and specializations. Look for ad agencies that possess a deep understanding of your industry and target audience. A top Google Ads agency will have a team of seasoned professionals who are skilled in different areas such as keyword research, copywriting, landing page optimization, and data analysis. You should check their experience with Google Ads campaign management, certifications, and how they stay updated with the latest trends and best practices. A Google Ads agency with a strong foundation will be well-equipped to craft effective campaigns to help your business grow.

4. Assess Communication and Transparency

Effective communication is super important when working with a Google Ads agency. During the evaluation process, pay close attention to how each agency communicates and responds to your needs. A top-tier Google Ads agency will actively listen to your needs, ask relevant questions, and provide explanations of their strategies and processes. They should share campaign updates, performance reports, and insights, keeping you well-informed about their performance. 

5. Review the Proposal and Pricing Structure

As you narrow down your options, request proposals from the shortlisted agencies. A comprehensive proposal should contain their recommended strategies, target audience analysis, campaign timelines, and key performance indicators. Make sure you evaluate each proposal carefully. It needs to align with your goals and demonstrates a clear understanding of your business. Take note of the pricing structure and make sure it fits within your budget. Remember that the focus should be on the value and results delivered by the agency, and not just the price.

6. Perform Your Due Diligence

Don't hesitate to seek references from the agencies you are seriously considering. Contact their existing or previous clients to gain insights into their experiences, results achieved, and overall satisfaction with the agency's performance. Additionally, perform due diligence by researching the agency's reputation, online presence, and any negative feedback.

What to look for in a Google Ads agency?

With countless agencies out there, it's crucial to know what to look for in a Google Ads agency that can deliver exceptional results. Here are a few things you should look for.

1. Proven Track Record and Experience

When assessing potential Google Ads agencies, a solid track record of success is a non-negotiable. Look for agencies that can provide case studies, client testimonials, and quantifiable results from their previous campaigns. 

2. Industry Expertise and Specialization

Your Google Ads agency should have a deep understanding of your industry and target audience. Seek an agency that has experience working within your niche. They will possess valuable insights into the specificities of your market. A specialized agency can craft highly targeted campaigns, ensuring your message reaches the right people at the right time. 

3. Transparent Communication and Reporting

Effective communication is the foundation of a successful agency-client relationship. Look for a Google Ads agency that prioritizes transparent and open lines of communication. They should actively listen to your goals, concerns, and questions, responding with clarity and expertise. Additionally, the agency should provide regular reports and insights on campaign performance.

4. Data-Driven Approach and Analytical Capabilities

Data is the lifeblood of successful campaigns. An exceptional agency will leverage data analytics to optimize performance and get the most out of your budget. Look for agencies that use advanced analytics tools and methodologies to extract actionable insights from campaign data, enabling them to continually optimize your Google Ads.

5. Customized Strategies and Innovation

Look for an agency that can tailor their strategies to meet your unique business objectives. The right agency will take the time to understand your brand, target audience, and competitive landscape. They will develop customized campaigns that resonate with your audience. They should also constantly explore new avenues and experiment with creative ad formats to stay ahead of the curve.

What are the red flags of Google Ads agencies?

Here are some of the most common signs that a Google Ads agency is not for you.

🚩 Lack of Transparency and Communication

If an agency is hesitant to provide clear and timely updates on your campaigns, avoids answering your questions, or fails to explain its strategies and processes, it indicates a problematic working relationship. Transparent communication helps to build trust and collaboration, so be wary of agencies that have poor communication practices.

🚩 Inconsistent or Inadequate Results

When evaluating Google Ads agencies, pay close attention to their track record and the results they have achieved for previous clients. Inconsistent or inadequate results should raise concerns. Request case studies or testimonials that demonstrate their ability to drive measurable success.

🚩 Lack of Industry Expertise and Updated Knowledge

If an agency shows a lack of industry expertise, outdated knowledge, or an inability to adapt to new strategies, it will affect your campaign's performance. Ask about their team's Google Ads certifications, training, and commitment to staying up to date with the latest updates. A reliable Google Ads agency will show its expertise and commitment to continuous learning.

🚩 Unethical or Questionable Practices

Integrity is the most important thing in business. Be cautious of agencies that engage in unethical practices, such as using black hat techniques, click fraud, or violating Google's advertising policies. Such practices can not only harm your campaigns but also jeopardize your brand's reputation. 

🚩 Lack of Customization and Strategic Approach

Each business is unique, and your Google Ads campaigns should reflect that. Beware of agencies that adopt a one-size-fits-all approach and don’t tailor their strategies to your specific goals and target audience. If an agency seems reluctant to customize their approach it is definitely a red flag. That’s why each of our clients gets a dashboard that can be customized to their needs and their workflow.

Conclusion

Hiring the right Google Ads agency is a really big decision that can significantly impact your digital advertising success. By considering factors such as a proven track record, industry expertise, transparent communication, data-driven approach, and customized strategies, you can identify an agency that aligns with your goals and delivers exceptional results. Remember, a reliable agency should act as your trusted partner, continuously optimizing your campaigns and driving tangible business outcomes in the dynamic world of Google Ads.

Published on: 25/06/2023   Last Updated: 29/09/2023

About the author

stefan bulatovic
Founder & CEO of Presnt

Stefan is a marketer with 8 years of experience of working with various B2C and B2B brands.

linkedin

Read next

quotation mark

Amazing service! Great dashboard, user friendly, transparent work, creative way of thinking!

Read full review at:
Read our Reviews on HubSpot’s Solutions Directory

Some of our results:

5.5x
Return on Ad Spend
$1.2m
Annual Recurring Revenue
$754k
Pipeline in one QTR
40%
Lower Cost/Acquisition

Learn more about Presnt

If you want to learn more about how Presnt works, and how we can help you grow your business, click the button below and book a short call.