When it comes to online paid advertising, there are numerous advertising methods available to businesses. Two of the most popular methods are Google Ads and Social Media Ads. Both methods are effective in promoting your business and increasing visibility, but they differ in several ways. So what should you be using? Let’s compare and contrast the differences between advertising on Google vs advertising on Social Media to help you determine which method is best for your business and provide tips on how to implement both methods.
Differences between Google Ads and Social Media Ads
Understanding the differences between Google Ads and Social Media Ads is critical to determining which method is best for your business. Here are the differences between the two methods:
- Purpose
Google Ads are designed to target people who are searching for specific keywords. While Social Ads are designed to target people based on their location, interests and behaviours.
- Ad Format
Google Ads typically appear as text ads on Google Search. While Social Media Ads can appear in a variety of formats including images, videos, and carousels.
- Cost
Google Ads operate on a pay-per-click model, while Social Media Ads operate on a pay-per-impression or pay-per-click model.
- Targeting
Google Ads offers targeting options such as location, device, and language, while Social Media Ads offer targeting options such as demographics, interests, and behaviours.
- Intent
Advertising on Google targets people who are actively searching for something. While advertising on Social Media target people who may not be actively searching for something but may be interested in your product or service. Think of this as Google Ads are giving your customers the answer they are looking for to their problem. Whereas Social Media Ads are solving their problem before they may even know they have one.
Which is best for you?
One important factor to consider when choosing between these methods is your target audience. If your business is looking to reach potential customers who are actively searching for a solution to a current need, then Google Search Ads might be the better choice. These ads allow businesses to bid on keywords related to their product or service. Meaning that when someone searches for those keywords, the business’s ad will appear at the top of the search results page. This can be a highly effective way to get in front of people who are already interested in what you have to offer.
On the other hand, if your business is looking to target a particular audience that has shown an affinity for your products or services, then Facebook Ads may be the way to go. Facebook’s powerful targeting options allow businesses to show their ads to specific groups of people based on a variety of factors such as age, location, interests, and behaviours. This can be especially useful for businesses that are looking to reach a specific demographic, such as women aged 18-35 who are interested in fitness and wellness.
Another factor to consider is your advertising budget. Google Search Ads tend to be more expensive than Facebook Ads, especially for highly competitive keywords. This means that businesses with a limited budget may find that Facebook Ads are a more cost-effective option. Additionally, Facebook Ads allow businesses to set a daily or lifetime budget. This can help them stay within their advertising budget and avoid overspending.
Should you use both Google Ads and Social Ads?
Using both advertising methods can help maximise your advertising efforts and reach a larger audience. However, it’s important to keep in mind your advertising budget and the specific goals you want to achieve with your advertising.
Still feeling unsure about how to advertise online?
Never fear! At Viewpoint Digital Media, we pride ourselves on being your one-stop shop for all your digital marketing needs; including paid advertising. Let us help you reach your target audience and achieve your marketing goals. Contact us today to learn how we can support your business and take your advertising to the next level!
