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How Much Should You Spend in Google Ads?

How Much Should You Spend in Google Ads?

The Journey from “Just Google It” to Ad Success

Imagine a scenario: you’re a business owner in Australia, and you’ve just launched a new product you’re excited about. You’re eager to get the word out but quickly realize traditional advertising methods might not be enough to reach your target audience. Enter Google Ads—the platform where billions of searches happen every day. You know it has potential, but the big question looms: How much should I spend?

Digital ad spending in Australia is set to surpass $13 billion AUD by the end of 2024, with Google Ads consistently leading as one of the top channels for small businesses looking to increase visibility and conversions. However, while it’s easy to set up a Google Ad, getting the most value for your budget isn’t straightforward. This guide is here to give you an honest look at the factors, strategies, and decisions that go into setting an effective Google Ads budget.

Let’s dive in.


What Are Google Ads, and Why Do They Matter?

Before we jump into budgeting, let’s make sure we’re on the same page with the basics.

What Are Google Ads?

Google Ads (formerly Google AdWords) is an online advertising platform where businesses pay to have their ads appear on Google’s search results pages, YouTube, and other sites. You set up campaigns and bid on keywords so that your ad appears when people search for terms related to your product or service.

Why Are Google Ads Important?

Google handles over 3.5 billion searches per day, meaning there’s a massive potential audience for your ads. Unlike traditional ads, Google Ads allow you to directly target users with specific search intent. For example, someone searching “buy gym equipment near me” is likely ready to make a purchase—targeting these keywords effectively can be very profitable.


Key Factors Influencing Google Ads Costs

Now that we’ve covered what Google Ads are, let’s break down the factors that impact how much you’ll spend.

1. Keyword Selection and Competition

Your choice of keywords directly impacts cost. Highly competitive keywords (like “personal injury lawyer” or “car insurance”) are more expensive because so many businesses are bidding on them. Less competitive keywords may have lower costs but also attract less traffic. In Australia, competitive industries like finance, law, and insurance often see CPCs (cost per click) reaching $50 AUD or more per click.

To mitigate costs:

  • Use a mix of short-tail and long-tail keywords: Short-tail keywords (e.g., “fitness”) are more competitive, while long-tail keywords (e.g., “affordable gym equipment in Sydney”) are less competitive and more specific.
  • Utilize negative keywords to filter out irrelevant searches.

Also read: “Understanding buyer intent keywords and their uses” 

2. Industry and Niche

Costs also vary by industry. According to recent data, average CPCs in Australia can range from $1 AUD in retail to over $20 AUD in finance and law. If you’re in a niche market, you may face less competition, which can help keep your CPC low.

3. Ad Quality and Relevance (Quality Score)

Google rewards high-quality, relevant ads with a lower CPC through its Quality Score system. Quality Score is based on factors like:

  • Click-Through Rate (CTR): How often users click on your ad after seeing it.
  • Ad relevance: How closely your ad matches the keywords you’re targeting.
  • Landing page experience: How useful your landing page is to users.

A higher Quality Score can significantly lower your costs and improve your ad’s placement.


How to Set a Google Ads Budget That Works for You

Now that you understand what affects your costs, it’s time to talk about setting a budget that aligns with your goals.

1. Define Your Goals Clearly

Start by identifying what you want from Google Ads:

  • Brand Awareness: If your goal is visibility, focus on keywords with high search volume.
  • Lead Generation: For capturing leads, focus on high-intent keywords like “free quote for renovation services.”
  • Sales/Conversions: If your goal is direct sales, focus on transactional keywords.

2. Calculate a Starting Budget

To get a ballpark figure:

  1. Estimate your CPC based on industry averages or Google’s Keyword Planner.
  2. Calculate the number of clicks needed to reach your goals. For instance, if you want 50 leads per month with a 10% conversion rate, you’ll need 500 clicks.
  3. Multiply estimated CPC by clicks to get a monthly budget.

This is a starting point. You can adjust as you gather data on what works.


Estimating Google Ads Costs with Realistic Examples

A concrete example can help bring clarity to budgeting.

Example Calculation – Gym Equipment Store

Let’s say you run a gym equipment store and want to allocate $1,000 AUD per month to Google Ads. Here’s how you might calculate:

  1. Average CPC: Based on keyword research, you find that relevant keywords like “affordable gym equipment Sydney” have an average CPC of $2 AUD.
  2. Click Estimate: With a $1,000 budget, you could afford about 500 clicks ($1,000 ÷ $2).
  3. Conversion Goal: If your landing page has a 5% conversion rate, those 500 clicks could yield 25 purchases.

This kind of calculation helps set realistic expectations for what your budget might achieve.


Maximising Your Google Ads Budget

To make the most out of your Google Ads spend, focus on the following strategies:

1. Keyword Targeting and Bidding Strategies

  • Broad Match vs. Exact Match: Use broad match for more exposure, but focus on exact match for specific, high-intent searches.
  • Automated Bidding: Google offers automated bidding strategies like “Maximize Clicks” or “Target CPA” that can optimize bids based on your goals.

2. Geotargeting and Ad Scheduling

  • If your business is local, limit your ads to specific regions. For instance, targeting only Sydney or Melbourne can reduce irrelevant clicks.
  • Schedule ads to run during peak times, such as business hours.

3. Ad Copy and Landing Page Optimization

  • Create compelling ad copy that aligns with user intent. For example, use “Shop Affordable Gym Equipment Today” for high-intent searches.
  • Optimize your landing pages for conversions. A clean, fast-loading page with a clear call-to-action can make a huge difference.

Common Pitfalls That Can Inflate Your Google Ads Costs

While Google Ads can be a powerful tool, there are common mistakes that drive up costs without delivering results.

1. Ignoring Quality Score

Neglecting Quality Score can lead to poor ad performance and higher costs. By improving your ad relevance and CTR, you can keep CPCs low.

2. Poor Keyword Selection

Bidding on overly generic keywords like “shoes” or “gym” can attract a lot of irrelevant clicks. Always be specific to your product or service to attract serious customers.

3. Not Using Negative Keywords

Negative keywords prevent your ad from showing in irrelevant searches. For example, a gym equipment store might use “free” as a negative keyword to avoid users looking for free equipment.


Measuring Success and Adjusting Your Budget

As you start to see results, it’s essential to measure your ad performance to determine if your budget needs adjusting.

Key Metrics to Watch

  • Click-Through Rate (CTR): A low CTR may indicate that your ad isn’t relevant enough.
  • Cost-Per-Acquisition (CPA): This tells you how much you’re spending to acquire each customer.
  • Return on Ad Spend (ROAS): This metric helps you evaluate if your ad spending is profitable.

Adjusting Based on Performance

Use these metrics to decide whether to increase, decrease, or reallocate your budget. For instance, if your CPA is too high, consider focusing on lower-cost keywords or improving your landing page to increase conversions.


Final Recommendations: Making Google Ads Work for Your Business

To summarize, here are some takeaways to guide you:

  • Start with a clear budget and defined goals. Whether it’s brand awareness or direct sales, be specific about what you aim to achieve.
  • Adjust and experiment. Google Ads isn’t set-and-forget. Continually monitor performance and make tweaks based on data.
  • Focus on quality and relevance. Quality Score, keyword specificity, and a smooth customer journey from ad to landing page will maximize your budget’s effectiveness.

Google Ads can be a powerful tool for reaching your business goals. By budgeting carefully and optimizing intelligently, you can maximize every dollar you spend.


References

  • Australian Bureau of Statistics: Digital Advertising Spending Trends
  • Google Ads Help: Guide to Quality Score and Optimization Tips
  • Ahrefs Blog: Advanced Strategies for Cost-Effective Google Ads

I hope this serves you,

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10 Marketing Tips to Thrive in 2025

10 Marketing Tips to Thrive in 2025

Picture this: It’s 2025, and marketing feels more like a chess match than a sprint. AI is rewriting emails, your competitors are experimenting with augmented reality ads, and platforms you’ve never heard of are suddenly generating massive engagement. Welcome to the future of marketing.

In Australia, digital ad spending is projected to reach $14 billion by 2025, with businesses increasingly prioritizing personalization and innovation. But here’s the kicker: While many marketers will double down on generic strategies, the real winners will be those who dare to stand out. This guide isn’t about rehashing common advice; it’s about sharing creative, actionable, and often overlooked strategies to ensure your marketing stands tall in 2025.


1. Embrace Negative Reviews

Why Negative Reviews Can Build Trust

Negative reviews can feel like a gut punch, but here’s the reality: Consumers trust brands with a mix of reviews more than those with a perfect score. A study by BrightLocal found that 85% of consumers believe online reviews with flaws are more authentic.

Actionable Steps:

  • Highlight Imperfection: Share balanced reviews on your website and social channels to show transparency.
  • Respond Thoughtfully: Address negative reviews professionally and show steps you’re taking to improve. This fosters credibility.
  • Turn Feedback Into Content: Use common complaints to create blog posts or videos explaining how you’ve addressed these issues.

Example:

An Australian skincare brand shared user feedback highlighting both positive and critical experiences. Their honesty led to a 30% increase in conversions, proving that trust drives sales.


2. Create What AI Can’t

Standing Out in a Sea of AI Content

With AI tools like ChatGPT generating generic articles and ads, standing out requires producing content that only humans can create—original studies, brand storytelling, and unique perspectives.

Actionable Steps:

  • Conduct Surveys: Run surveys with your audience and publish the results as industry insights.
  • Build Emotional Stories: Share behind-the-scenes stories of your brand or customers. Emotional resonance can’t be faked by AI.
  • Collaborate with Creatives: Work with writers, videographers, and designers to create high-quality, original content.

Example:

A Sydney-based fitness studio produced a video series featuring real client transformations. The authenticity helped them attract a 200% increase in engagement on Instagram.


3. Think Beyond Blogs for SEO

Expanding Your SEO Horizons

Blogs have long dominated SEO strategies, but in 2025, smart marketers are targeting platforms where people naturally search: TikTok, Reddit, and niche forums. TikTok SEO, for example, is growing, with users treating it like a search engine for product recommendations.

Actionable Steps:

  • TikTok Keywords: Use trending hashtags and phrases in video captions to rank for niche queries.
  • Reddit Communities: Engage in discussions and provide value without hard-selling.
  • Visual SEO: Optimize video and image descriptions for Google and social platforms.

Example:

An Australian travel agency posted TikTok videos titled “Hidden Beaches in Sydney.” These videos ranked for local searches, driving 20% more traffic to their website.


4. Empower Internal Influencers

Turning Employees Into Brand Ambassadors

In 2025, brands that leverage employee voices will humanize their messaging and create deeper connections. After all, people trust people more than they trust brands.

Actionable Steps:

  • Social Media Spotlights: Encourage employees to share their work experiences on LinkedIn or Instagram.
  • Employee Advocacy Programs: Provide incentives for employees to promote the brand online.
  • Content Takeovers: Allow team members to “take over” your brand’s social accounts for a day.

Example:

A Melbourne-based tech startup launched an “Employee Spotlight” series on LinkedIn. The posts boosted job applications by 50% and improved brand perception.


5. Diversify Marketing Channels

Exploring New Platforms

Sticking to the same platforms year after year can limit your reach. In 2025, brands need to explore emerging spaces like BeReal or AR-enhanced shopping apps to tap into fresh audiences.

Actionable Steps:

  • Experiment With New Apps: Set aside a portion of your budget to test platforms gaining traction with your target audience.
  • Monitor Trends: Use tools like Google Trends to identify emerging channels.
  • Adapt Quickly: Create content tailored to the quirks of each platform.

Example:

A Brisbane-based café gained 10,000 followers on BeReal by sharing authentic, unfiltered behind-the-scenes content.


6. Train AI to Reflect Your Brand Voice

Consistency in an Automated World

As AI tools become integral to marketing workflows, ensuring they reflect your unique tone is key. Without customization, AI risks producing generic or tone-deaf messages.

Actionable Steps:

  • Set Guidelines: Train AI models with examples of your preferred tone and phrasing.
  • Audit Outputs: Regularly review AI-generated content to ensure quality and brand alignment.
  • Blend Human Oversight: Pair AI efficiency with human creativity for the best results.

Example:

An Australian fashion retailer trained AI to write emails in their playful, quirky style. This personalization led to higher open rates compared to generic AI emails.


7. Focus on Problem-Solving Content

Becoming a Resource, Not Just a Brand

Content that solves problems builds trust and loyalty. When people see your brand as a helpful resource, they’re more likely to choose your products or services.

Actionable Steps:

  • FAQs That Go Deep: Create detailed, useful answers to common customer questions.
  • Video Tutorials: Show how to use your products or services effectively.
  • Interactive Tools: Develop calculators, quizzes, or checklists that provide immediate value.

Example:

An Australian real estate agency built a “Mortgage Calculator” tool that became their website’s top driver of leads.


8. Build a Marketing Moat with Customer Insights

Outpacing Competitors Through Data

A “marketing moat” is your competitive edge—something competitors can’t easily replicate. In 2025, that moat will be your deep understanding of customer behavior.

Actionable Steps:

  • Conduct Interviews: Speak directly to customers to uncover insights beyond data points.
  • Segment Deeply: Use data to create hyper-targeted campaigns for specific audience segments.
  • Personalize Experiences: Use insights to tailor every interaction, from emails to ads.

Example:

A Canberra-based fitness app segmented users based on activity levels, resulting in higher retention rates.


9. Break Through Selective Attention

Standing Out in a Crowded Space

With shorter attention spans, creating impactful, attention-grabbing content is critical. Bold visuals, clear CTAs, and interactive elements can help.

Actionable Steps:

  • Start Strong: Hook audiences in the first three seconds with bold visuals or questions.
  • Interactive Campaigns: Use polls, quizzes, or gamification to engage users.
  • Prioritize Clarity: Avoid overcrowding ads or landing pages; keep the message simple and direct.

Example:

An Australian charity used a quiz-based campaign to drive donations, boosting engagement by 60%.


10. Incorporate Negative Space in Campaigns

The Art of Minimalist Design

Negative space (or white space) isn’t wasted space—it’s an opportunity to focus attention. Clean, uncluttered designs improve comprehension and engagement.

Actionable Steps:

  • Focus on One CTA: Avoid overwhelming users with multiple competing actions.
  • Simplify Layouts: Use negative space to draw attention to key elements like headlines or buttons.
  • Test Designs: A/B test different layouts to find the most effective balance.

Example:

An Australian fintech app redesigned their homepage to feature one bold CTA, improving conversions by 25%.


2025 isn’t just about adapting; it’s about thriving. The brands that succeed will be those that innovate, connect authentically, and provide real value. From leveraging negative reviews to embracing minimalist design, these strategies will ensure your marketing stands out in an increasingly crowded space.

Ready to take the leap? Start implementing these tips today, and watch your brand thrive in the marketing landscape of tomorrow.

I hope this serves you,

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Facebook Ads, Pro Tips for Maximising Results

Facebook Ads, Pro Tips for Maximising Results

Facebook Ads: Pro Tips for Maximising Results

The Power of Facebook Ads

Year after year, Facebook ads prove to be a valuable investment for digital marketers. They consistently deliver lower cost-per-click and cost-per-lead compared to other platforms like Google Ads. However, it’s easy to overspend due to the abundance of customisation and targeting options.

To help you make the most of Facebook ads, we’ve gathered insights from experienced professionals. These tips have delivered real-world results like higher click-through rates, lower costs, and more conversions. Let’s dive in!

1. Embrace “Ugly” Ads

People have become adept at recognizing and ignoring polished ads. “Ugly ads” – those resembling native content – bypass this filter. They appear organic and are more likely to grab attention, according to eCom Growth Advisor, Alexandra Greifeld.

2. Prioritise People Over Products

Ann-Marie Burrage, owner of Purple Octopus, tripled an already impressive ROAS for a butcher chain by featuring people in their ads. She emphasised that Facebook is a social platform, not just an advertising one.

Their initial ads with static product images yielded a 4:1 return on ad spend. By switching to a video featuring a team member talking about a product pack, they built trust and connected with their ideal customer.

To implement this strategy, Ann-Marie advises:

  • Know your target audience: Understand their needs and pain points.
  • Understand the buyer’s journey: Tailor your campaigns to guide them through the funnel.
  • Test continuously: Experiment with audiences, creatives, and text at different stages.

Additionally, keep text short and include five-star reviews when possible to build trust.

3. Master Data Management

Privacy concerns and data protection policies have impacted ad targeting. Ann-Marie recommends these steps:

  • Prioritise first-party data: Build customer data platforms and use lead generation forms within Facebook to collect data directly.
  • Don’t rely solely on Meta’s analytics: Cross-check with your website’s sales data due to potential discrepancies.
  • Use data to enhance sales and service: Share lead data with your team for quick follow-up using tools like Zapier.

4. Leverage Facebook’s Dynamic Ad Features

Jordan Bucknell, Founder and CEO of Upbeat Agency, suggests using Dynamic Creative Optimisation (DCO) and Advantage+ creative.

DCO dynamically tests different combinations of headlines, images, and calls to action to identify the best performers, resulting in increased click-through rates and engagement.

Advantage+ creative automatically adjusts ad elements for enhanced engagement, leading to higher conversion rates and improved ROAS.

Remember to monitor ad frequency and set caps to prevent ad fatigue.

5. Implement the “Engagement; Purchase; Scale” Method

Ashley Rodriquez, a Facebook ad coach, utilizes a three-step campaign structure:

  1. Engagement campaign: Warm up the audience with content like client reviews, results, offers, or guarantees.
  2. Purchase campaign: Retarget engaged users with ads optimized for purchases to reach those most likely to buy.
  3. Scale: Build a lookalike audience based on the original list and increase the budget to reach new customers.

6. Trust the Algorithms

Tyler Mask, Senior Manager at LocaliQ, highlights that Meta’s algorithms have improved, reducing the need for overly detailed targeting. Focus on A/B testing creative and messaging to ensure your ads resonate with the audience.

Avoid overwhelming the algorithm with too many ad sets and ads. Well-thought-out A/B testing benefits both Meta’s AI and your decision-making.

7. Utilise the Conversion Setting for Lead Ads

Mat Wendler, Manager at LocaliQ, recommends using the Conversion setting for Lead Ads to drive leads to your website forms instead of relying on Facebook lead forms. This often results in higher-quality leads and allows you to further engage visitors on your website.

Connect with Your Audience

Facebook ads remain a powerful tool, but success lies in connecting with your audience authentically and testing strategically. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to experts for guidance. Remember, the key is to focus on building relationships and delivering value through your ads. 

And there you have it, folks! A whirlwind tour through the dynamic world of Facebook Ads. I hope this piece has sparked some new ideas, challenged a few assumptions, or simply left you feeling a bit more informed. Remember, the journey of learning and growth is never-ending. So keep exploring, keep questioning, and most importantly, keep creating.

Until next time, stay curious and stay inspired.

Wishing you epic wins,

Pro Tips for Maximising Results,advertising strategies,dynamic creative optimization,conversion optimization,ad fatigue,engagement campaigns,ROAS Red/ Marketer with a Soul

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How SeniorPreneurs are Changing the Business Landscape in Australia

How SeniorPreneurs are Changing the Business Landscape in Australia

The New SeniorPreneur

Retirement doesn’t have to mean the end of your career. In fact, a growing number of seniors in Australia are becoming entrepreneurs, starting successful businesses and making their mark in the business world. These SeniorPreneurs are proving that age is just a number when it comes to entrepreneurship.

Who are SeniorPreneurs?

SeniorPreneurs are individuals who start their own businesses after the age of 50. They are often retirees or individuals who have left the traditional workforce but still have a desire to work and contribute to society. SeniorPreneurs come from a variety of backgrounds and industries, and their businesses range from small startups to larger enterprises.
SeniorPreneurs are becoming increasingly common in Australia, with many individuals choosing to start their own businesses later in life. These entrepreneurs bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to their ventures, and often have a unique perspective on the market.
Many SeniorPreneurs are motivated by a desire to create something meaningful, or to solve a problem they have encountered in their own lives. They may also be driven by a desire to stay active and engaged in their communities, or to supplement their retirement income. Whatever their motivations, SeniorPreneurs are an important and growing segment of the Australian business landscape.

Why are SeniorPreneurs on the rise in Australia?

There are several reasons why SeniorPreneurs are on the rise in Australia. Firstly, the aging population means that there are more individuals over the age of 50 who are looking for ways to stay active and engaged in the workforce, and starting a business can be a great way to do this, as it allows individuals to use their skills and experience in a new and exciting way.
Finally, advances in technology and changes in the business landscape have made it easier for individuals to start and run their own businesses, regardless of their age.

What challenges do SeniorPreneurs face?

While SeniorPreneurs are proving that age is just a number when it comes to entrepreneurship, they still face some unique challenges. One of the biggest challenges is access to funding, as many investors may be hesitant to invest in older entrepreneurs.
Additionally, SeniorPreneurs may face age discrimination in the workforce, which can make it difficult to find clients or customers. Finally, balancing the demands of running a business with other responsibilities, such as caring for family members or managing health issues, can also be a challenge for SeniorPreneurs.

Another challenge that SeniorPreneurs may face is keeping up with technology and digital marketing. Many older entrepreneurs may not have grown up with the same level of technology as younger generations, which can make it difficult to navigate the digital landscape. However, there are resources available to help SeniorPreneurs learn and adapt to new technologies, such as online courses and mentorship programs.
It’s important for SeniorPreneurs to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and tools in order to remain competitive in their industries.

Despite these challenges, SeniorPreneurs are proving that age is just a number and that they have a wealth of knowledge and experience to bring to the table.

Success stories of SeniorPreneurs in Australia.

Despite the challenges they face, SeniorPreneurs in Australia are making their mark in the business world. One success story is that of Janine Allis, founder of Boost Juice, who started the business at the age of 42 and has since expanded it to over 500 stores worldwide. Another example is that of Peter Strong, who started his own consulting business at the age of 60 and has since become a leading voice for small business in Australia. These SeniorPreneurs prove that age is just a number when it comes to entrepreneurship and that it’s never too late to start a successful business.

Another inspiring SeniorPreneur success story is that of John Ilhan, founder of Crazy John’s mobile phone stores. Ilhan started the business at the age of 33 and grew it into a multi-million dollar company with over 120 stores across Australia. Sadly, Ilhan passed away in 2007, but his legacy lives on as a testament to the potential of SeniorPreneurs in Australia. These success stories and others, show that age should not be a barrier to entrepreneurship and that SeniorPreneurs have a wealth of experience and knowledge to bring to the business world.

How can aspiring SeniorPreneurs get started?

One of the first steps for aspiring SeniorPreneurs is to identify their passions and skills. This can involve reflecting on past experiences, hobbies, and interests to determine what they are truly passionate about. From there, they can explore potential business ideas that align with those passions and skills.

It’s also important for SeniorPreneurs to seek out resources and support, such as mentorship programs, business incubators, and networking events specifically geared towards older entrepreneurs. These resources can provide valuable guidance and connections to help SeniorPreneurs get started and grow their businesses. SeniorPreneurs should have a solid understanding of the market they are entering and develop a strong business plan. With the right attitude, determination and guidance, SeniorPreneurs can successfully launch and grow their own businesses and make a positive impact in their communities and to their bank balance.

Whether you’re a start-up and need to grow your existing business, or have an established company that is looking to get past a plateau, YBR Marketing will create a customized growth strategy for you. With our SaaS Growth Strategy we’ll show you how to profit from your unique perspective and experience.

We’re seniorpreneurs ourselves. We know what you need to start, grow your business and get to the next level. We are the quiet partner behind highly successful SeniorPreneurs and we want to be the same partner for you, through our Seniors as a Service (SaaS) Strategies. Like to learn More? Contact one of our SaaS professionals today!

“Dedicated to your business success”

John

wollongong digital marketing

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