Google Conversion by Ad Position
Google’s chief economist released a report stating conversion doesn’t change much based on ad position. That’s a bold, across the board statement.
Google’s PhDs have research to backup their argument. I’m sure it’s not an evil plot designed to set your sights on the top (more expensive) spot for all that extra traffic that you are missing out on. Financial motivations should at least be somewhere way, way back in your mind though. Smart people can make data prove lots of arguments.
It’s just blanket claims always make me uneasy. For every rule of thumb, or best practice there’s always an exception.
Long copy vs. short
1 page checkout vs. 2-3 page processes
Long headline vs. short headline
….and the list goes on. There are case studies to prove or disprove just about anything.
A more practical matter. An actual client, spending actual money, getting actual leads.
I wanted to share with you a 30 day position analysis we ran for a ppc lead generation client.
For this client, positions 4-8 brought in the most impressions, most clicks and highest conversion rate when compared to spots 1-3. In fact the conversion rate in 4-8 was about 3 times that of spots 1-3 and received more impressions.
I don’t doubt the validity of Google’s research, but this client’s ads are staying in position 4-8. With conversions rates above 12% and cost per leads in the $6-$7 range vs. a conversion rate around 4% and cost per lead of $9-$10 in spots 1-3
Final thoughts: I’ve just picked off a slice of data to make my point, it should be noted that this too is only a piece of the puzzle. End lead quality may be a whole other story. What if the leads from spots 1-3 brought in significantly more revenue to justify the higher cost per lead and lower conversion rate? Stay tuned…
Paul Rakovich
Recent Posts
Recent Comments
- Shannon Thammasiene on How to Create a Successful Blog
- Sarah on How to Create a Successful Blog
- How to Create a Successful Blog on 5 Free Keyword Research Tools that will Rock your Socks
- Olivier Hamphrey on This Week In Social Media
- Richard Dickerson on Use Email to Sell without Selling