Google Ads consultants are masters of Google’s advertising ecosystem. Learn more about the role, benefits, costs, the process of hiring one, and top consultants to consider for your brand’s success.

Diving into the complex domain of Google Ads requires robust expertise, sharp insights, and the ability to keep up with rapid changes in the landscape.

It’s a job for a seasoned Google Ads specialist, not just a casual navigator.

Here’s the challenge: In the dynamic arena of pay-per-click advertising (PPC) and remarketing strategies, the smallest oversight could mean a dip in your return on investment (ROI).

Conversely, harnessing the power of the latest and most effective strategies, like using platforms and apps like LinkedIn, can significantly elevate your visibility, drive up conversions, and bolster your revenue.

But there are many nuances.

The wise decision? Bringing onboard a specialized Google Ads consultant with the know-how for successful ad campaigns. But among a sea of consultants, how do you identify your champion?

Let’s kick things off with an overview of some of the top Google Ads experts in the industry you might want to consider:

The 9 best Google Ads consultants to consider

  1. HawkSEM
  2. Jumpfly
  3. Tinuiti
  4. Silverback Strategies
  5. Wpromote
  6. Higher Visibility
  7. WebFX
  8. Coalition Technologies
  9. Thrive Agency

1. HawkSEM

That’s us! With deep roots in the digital marketing landscape, we at HawkSEM pride ourselves on driving conversions and cultivating connections.

Our philosophy is built around a holistic strategy integrating innovative Google Ads management solutions. With more than 15 years of experience, our underlying focus is on user intent, demographic insights, and ad relevance.

hawksem

We average a 4.5x client ROI and an impressive 98% client retention rate.

But we don’t just manage keywords (over 3 million). We manage expectations, ensuring consistent, measurable results while optimizing Google Ads for a better ROAS (return on ad spend).

Intrigued?

Dive into our eclectic range of case studies, or simply reach out for a candid conversation. Let’s bring success to the next level, together.

By hiring HawkSEM, Thriftbooks was able to increase its average order value (AOV) by 50%.

Best for: B2B/B2C, ecommerce, lead generation, SaaS, finance, healthcare, education, professional services

Clients:

  • Nike
  • Microsoft
  • Honda Motor Co.
  • Siemens

2. Jumpfly

Jumpfly

At JumpFly, they’re in the business of tailored paid search strategies, big or small, simple or complex.

They see your growth objectives as their blueprint, crafting full-management Google Ads campaigns that focus on more than just top-line revenue — they’re zoomed in on your bottom line.

With a playbook of growth goals, a commitment to transparency, and a no-contract policy that keeps them on their toes, they ensure steady improvement for your campaigns.

Best for: ecommerce, start-ups, retail, technology

Clients:

  • Adidas
  • Shopify
  • Roku
  • GoPro

3. Tinuiti

tinuiti

Tinuiti isn’t just about scaling — it’s about staying ahead with smarter targeting and relentless testing. Their search marketing goes beyond metrics, optimizing continuously around your business goals for top-level performance.

Their proprietary approach, leveraging strategic planning, competitive analysis, and a hefty $500 million paid search budget management, ensures you’re not just running a campaign; you’re leading the pack.

Best for: B2B, retail, media, health and wellness

Clients:

  • Etsy
  • Rite Aid
  • Nestle
  • Conde Nast

4. Silverback Strategies

silverback strategies

Silverback Strategies believes in the power of collaboration between platform experts, analytics specialists, and creative talents to craft Google Ads campaigns that deliver maximum returns.

With a wide array of services from paid search management to custom reporting, they blend data insight with creative flair.

Best for: Healthcare, non-profit, automotive, technology

Clients:

  • Volvo
  • National Geographic
  • Goodwill
  • Adobe

5. Wpromote

wpromote

Wpromote builds powerful paid search strategies that are not just data-driven but also seamlessly integrated with your other online marketing channels.

As a top 3% Google Premier Partner, they offer unique access to Google innovations paired with a robust, performance-oriented creative approach.

From core business objectives to performance creative for platforms like YouTube, their strategy is about growing your entire marketing funnel.

Best for: ecommerce, technology, finance, B2B

Clients:

  • Marriott
  • Citibank
  • Bose
  • Salesforce

6. Higher Visibility

higher visibility

Higher Visibility crafts performance-driven Google Ads strategies that not only reflect your brand narrative but also target keywords with precision for quality leads and sales.

From search and display ads to comprehensive campaign management and best-in-class targeting, their expertise maximizes your online advertising spend and customer acquisition.

Best for: Retail, travel, hospitality, healthcare

Clients:

  • FedEx
  • eBay
  • Warner Brothers
  • GNC

7. WebFX

webfx

With WebFX, it’s all about getting a tailored PPC management service that delivers everything you need for a successful campaign.

From PPC audits to landing page optimization and full-funnel ROI tracking, their services are designed to drive over $3 billion in client revenue.

Get a nuanced strategy with WebFX that targets the right demographics with precision for visible brand connections.

Best for: Startups, ecommerce, B2B, education

Clients:

  • Verizon
  • Black & Decker
  • CAT
  • Wrangler

8. Coalition Technologies

coalition

Coalition Technologies brings together a world-class team to create PPC campaigns that are optimized for high performance and maximum ROI.

As a Google Premier Certified Partner, they promise unmatched results with each dollar spent on PPC, aimed at high conversions and impactful campaigns.

Best for: ecommerce, beauty, health, technology

Clients:

  • PayPal
  • Jack Daniels
  • Harvard
  • Spinning

9. Thrive Agency

thrive agency

Thrive Agency combines ROI-focused Google Ads strategies with an integrated approach for clicks that convert.

Since 2005, they have been offering full-service PPC solutions that are data-backed and designed to scale up campaigns effectively.

Their comprehensive services cover everything from keyword research to remarketing campaigns, ensuring your marketing goals are not just met but exceeded.

Best for: Real estate, B2C, healthcare, nonprofits

Clients:

  • Orkin
  • General Electric
  • TBS
  • UPS

How Google Ads consultants can help grow your business

Small businesses running powerful PPC advertising are expanding their reach and boosting sales.

However, diving into Google Ads without a PPC expert can lead to time-consuming processes, costly errors, and subpar results.

Enhancing your quality score

Google’s mission is to provide searchers with the most relevant content and ads.

This commitment led to the establishment of the Quality Score system, a measure designed to reward campaigns that align closely with users’ search intent.

A high Quality Score ensures your ads will rank higher, which also offers advertisers significant cost benefits.

Google Ads consultants can optimize your Quality Score by:

  • Segmenting campaigns to create highly targeted ad groups, ensuring ad relevance
  • Tweaking ad copy to contain key search terms, enhancing click-through rates
  • Crafting specific and optimized landing pages that cater
  • directly to the user’s query
  • Reducing website load times to improve user experience

Securing a competitive edge

Ignoring PPC leaves the gate open for your competitors to rake in the leads that could’ve been yours.

The beauty of Google ads is that, with the right strategy, even businesses with modest advertising budgets can compete effectively.

By collaborating with a consultant, you gain access to expert tools and strategic insights, enabling you to outperform rivals without overspending.

Our proprietary tool, ConversionIQ, plays a pivotal role in optimizing Google Ads campaigns for maximum impact. It sifts through extensive keyword data, identifying high-converting keywords that are most likely to drive sales and generate leads for your business.

This means that instead of shooting in the dark and wasting budget on underperforming keywords, you can focus your efforts and resources on terms that are proven to convert.

Achieving rapid results

By teaming up with a seasoned consultant, campaigns can be launched efficiently, delivering results in a matter of days.

The immediacy of Google Ads, coupled with a consultant’s expertise, allows for quick lead generation and nurturing, as opposed to more time-consuming strategies like SEO (search engine optimization).

Crafting persuasive content and landing pages

The success of any PPC campaign hinges on effective landing pages.

Whether your consultant offers in-house landing page design or collaborates with external design experts, the end goal remains a page optimized for conversions and Quality Score.

Also, a consultant’s proficiency in copywriting ensures your ad content resonates with your audience, compelling them to take desired actions.

From engaging headlines to convincing calls to action, every element is crafted to maximize results.

What to look for in a Google Ads consultant

Finding the right Google Ads consultant is crucial. Consider these factors as you embark on this search:

  • Proven track record: Experience is invaluable. Look for a history of success, evidenced by tangible results from past ad campaigns using Google ad examples, Google Ads custom reports, and Display ads examples. Testimonials and client feedback further unveil their proficiency.
  • Certifications and training: Ensure the consultant is Google Ads certified and regularly updates their knowledge, especially about new features like Google callout extensions, Google Smart Shopping, Google RLSA, Google Ads automated rules, and Dynamic search ads Google.
  • Transparent communication: A reliable consultant remains transparent regarding their methodologies, performance metrics, and any obstacles. Keeping you in the loop through Google ad settings and Google Ads extensions is vital.
  • Customized strategies: Your business is unique, and your strategy should reflect that. Seek consultants who tailor their approach to your specific needs, including leveraging Google search partners and Google discovery ads.
  • Analytical skills: The efficacy of Google Ads campaigns hinges on data. An adept consultant scrutinizes campaign data, extrapolates insights, and institutes data-backed modifications.
  • Cost structures: Familiarize yourself with their pricing structures. Regardless of whether it is a flat fee, ad spend percentage, or contingent on performance, it should align with your budget and expectations, with no hidden costs.

What is a Google Ads consultant’s role in an advertising campaign?

A Google Ads consultant is your “ear to the ground” in the ever-evolving world of paid search advertising.

They ensure to maximize every penny of your advertising budget to reach its fullest potential.

Here’s how they make this happen:

Campaign strategy development

Prior to launching any ad, the consultant carves out a precise marketing strategy, bearing in mind your brand, offerings, and value proposition. They employ strategies like Google Smart Shopping to amplify reach.

Keyword selection and bidding

Selecting the right keywords is central to any Google Ads campaign. The consultant identifies high-ROI keywords, uses Google Ads automated rules, and sets tactical bids for premium ad placements sans exceeding the budget.

”Choosing the right keywords is a blend of art and science,”  says Sam Yadegar, CEO and co-founder of HawkSEM. “It’s not just about high search volumes, but ensuring alignment with the searcher’s intent.”

Ad creation and optimization

Designing compelling ads demands creativity and strategic insights, ensuring they’re captivating and harmonized with Google’s standards.

This encompasses generating various Google ad sizes, honing headlines, and sculpting persuasive calls to action.

Landing page recommendations

The journey doesn’t end with a click. Where the user lands post-click is equally vital.

The consultant ensures landing pages are optimized for conversions, whether it’s making a purchase, signing up, or any other desired action.

Performance analysis

Numbers narrate tales of success and areas of improvement. Consultants dive deep into campaign metrics, adjusting strategies based on real-time performance data and ensuring your goals are met.

“Businesses should recognize the importance of a collaborative effort,” says David Godlewski, CEO of Intelliverse.

“Effective campaigns require a seamless user experience from the ad click to the website’s final conversion.”

He adds that consultants can provide valuable insights into ad campaign strategies, keyword targeting, and ad copy optimization.

However, they need the cooperation of web developers or designers to resolve website-specific issues to deliver a more cohesive user experience.

How do I find and hire a Google Ads consultant?

Finding qualified Google Ads consultants can seem challenging. But think of it as seeking the perfect pilot for your brand’s digital journey.

Here’s your roadmap:

  1. Start online: Conduct an extensive online search for Google Ads consultants.
  2. Ask for recommendations: Reach out to peers and colleagues for their suggestions.
  3. Research their background: Look into reviews, case studies, and client testimonials.
  4. Understand their pricing: Get clarity on their pricing structure to ensure it fits your budget.
  5. Set up interviews: Arrange meetings to discuss your brand, objectives, and expectations.
  6. Ensure a cultural fit: Make sure they can seamlessly integrate into your team.

By following these steps, you’ll increase your chances of finding a Google Ads consultant that aligns with your brand’s values, objectives, and budget.

6 signs it’s time to hire a Google Ads consultant

If you’re questioning whether your brand needs a professional touch in the world of Google Ads, here are some tell-tale signs:

  1. Stagnant or declining ad performance: If your ads aren’t delivering the desired results or you’re witnessing a drop in key metrics, it’s a sign you need expert intervention.
  2. Budget burnout: If your advertising budget gets exhausted without substantial ROI, it might be time to seek a consultant’s perspective.
  3. Keyword confusion: Unsure which keywords to bid on or facing low Quality Scores? A consultant can demystify this for you.
  4. Ad copy woes: If your ad copy lacks the desired punch or results in low click-through rates, a consultant can help craft more compelling narratives.
  5. Complexity of features: Google Ads is ever-evolving, with new features and tools. If you find it challenging to keep up, it’s a sign to bring in the experts.
  6. Lack of time: If you or your team are stretched thin and can’t give Google Ads the attention it deserves, it’s time to delegate to a specialist.

How to measure the ROI of Google Ads consulting services

Understanding the return on investment (ROI) is the cornerstone of any successful campaign.

At HawkSEM, we emphasize the importance of running an effective ad campaign and how you can measure its tangible outcomes.

Here’s how you can chart your course and determine the ROI of Google Ads consulting services based on your Google Ads campaign costs:

Accurate conversion tracking

Don’t dive into metrics before ensuring precise conversion tracking. Remember, not every click converts to a sale.

Track the journey from an ad click to the ultimate conversion — be it through phone leads, call tracking, or the final acknowledgment on the “Thank You” page. You’ll capture a clearer picture of your campaign’s success.

Targeting the right search terms

Success in Google Ads is tied to targeting intent-rich keywords. But it’s not just about any keyword — discerning between buying-intent and research-intent keywords can make all the difference.

Expert consultants, like ours at HawkSEM, constantly refine and test these keywords, ensuring your campaign is seen by searchers with high intent to purchase.

The nuances of bid price

At its core, positive ROI occurs when sales revenue trumps ad cost. Yet, determining the optimal bid for every keyword to yield the desired ROI is an art in itself.

It revolves around calculating the earnings per click, a metric showcasing the revenue generated for each ad click.

For instance, if a conversion earns you $200 and your conversion rate stands at 2%, your earnings per click amount to $4. This means, bidding more than $4 leads to a potential loss, swinging your ROI into the negative zone.

But that’s just half the story.

To paint the full picture, you need to factor in the cost per click (CPC). Once you’ve discerned your earnings per click, deducing your bid price becomes straightforward, aligning with your ROI aspirations.

Drawing from our example, aiming for a 50% ROI with a $4 earning per click calculates to a target CPC of $2.67 ($4 / (ROI + 1).

Other essential KPIs

To comprehensively understand the performance of your campaigns, consider these additional KPIs.

  • Impressions: The number of times your ad is displayed
  • Impression rate: The percentage of impressions against the total potential impressions
  • Click-through rates (CTR): The ratio of clicks your ad receives to the number of times it’s displayed
  • Clicks: The total number of times your ad was clicked
  • Quality Score: A metric provided by Google, gauging the relevance and quality of your keywords and PPC ads

Your ROI isn’t just about numbers — it’s a narrative of how effectively you reach potential customers.

By understanding and tracking these metrics, with the expert guidance of consultants like HawkSEM, you ensure every penny spent is an investment propelling your brand forward.

Questions to ask potential Google Ads consultants

Choosing the right Google Ads consultant can determine the success of your PPC campaign.

So, it’s essential to understand a consultant’s expertise, approach, and alignment with your business goals. At HawkSEM, we believe in clarity and transparency.

Here’s a list of questions to help you navigate this process.

  • What other services do you offer?
  • How do you determine our campaign budget?
  • How do you track and report on campaign performance?
  • What’s your strategy for keyword research and targeting?
  • How do you approach ad creatives and copywriting? How do you keep pace with Google Ads trends and updates?
  • What’s your optimization strategy for enhancing campaign performance?
  • Can you explain your pricing structure and terms?
  • How do you address campaigns that aren’t delivering expected results?
  • Could you provide a clear timeline for campaign setup and launch?

The takeaway

The realm of Google Ads is intricate and always changing, necessitating the need for an expert who can adapt and thrive in such an environment.

Understanding the key roles of Google Ads consultants, the immense value they can add to your campaigns, and the factors to consider when selecting one ensures you’re making an informed decision.

Finding the perfect Google Ads consultant requires time and careful consideration, but the rewards — increased visibility, ROI, and overall campaign success — are oh-so worth it.

Ready to bring your PPC efforts to the next level? Reach out to HawkSEM today for an expert Google Ads consultant and get the ROI you deserve.

This post has been updated and was originally published in December 2023.

FAQs

  • What is a Google Ads consultant?

    A Google Ads consultant is an expert in running successful Google Ads campaigns. They manage and optimize Google Ads accounts to ensure businesses reach their target audience and achieve impressive returns on their advertising investments.

    The best hold the title of a Google Premier Partner and excel in creating, fine-tuning, and overseeing PPC search campaigns on Google’s ads platform.

  • How much does a Google Ads consultant cost?

    To maximize the potential of your Google Ads campaign, it’s wise to collaborate with a specialist or a dedicated Google Ads agency (like us!). Let’s break down the common pricing models you might encounter:

    Flat fee model

    This straightforward model entails a consistent monthly charge regardless of the size of your ad budget. Some consultants, however, might introduce a tiered flat-fee approach.

    For example, managing a $5,000 monthly Google Ads budget might cost you $500. But if your budget jumps to $10,000, the fee could elevate to $1,000. Primarily because managing a larger budget requires more time, expertise, and effort.

    Performance-based model

    While not as common, some digital marketing agencies do offer a performance-centric pricing structure.

    In this model, you pay solely based on the leads you secure. It sidesteps considerations like monthly budgets, bidding strategy, or conversion rates. the primary concern with this model usually revolves around the volume and quality of leads received, and the cost associated with each lead.

    Percentage of ad spend

    This model sees agencies taking a pre-defined percentage of your ad spend as their fee. Typically, this falls within the 10-20% range of your budget. However, certain specialists might charge up to 30%.

    In addition to the percentage-based commission, an initial one-time fee might be needed for account setup and other foundational tasks.

    Several factors influence this cost:

    • Experience and reputation: Established consultants with a strong track record naturally command a higher fee
    • Scope of work: Comprehensive strategies involving multiple campaigns or international targeting may incur higher costs
    • Location: Geography often plays a role, with consultants in metropolitan areas potentially charging more
    • Engagement length: Some consultants offer discounts for long-term contracts or retainer agreements
  • What are the benefits of a Google Ads consultant?

    Treading the complex terrain of Ads can be challenging. But a Google Ads consultant transforms this journey, turning complexities into streamlined pathways to success.

    Let’s explore the benefits they bring to the table.

    • Instant visibility: With their expertise, your brand can achieve top search result placements almost immediately, bypassing the slower results typical of organic methods and boosting brand awareness.
    • Budget management: Google Ads consultants are pros at managing budgets. They ensure every cent is optimized, reducing wasteful spending and driving more conversions at lower costs.
    • Granular targeting: Leveraging granular details from demographics to user behavior, consultants ensure your ads resonate with the most relevant audience.
    • Ongoing optimization: The digital advertising landscape is dynamic. Google Ads consultants continuously monitor, test, and tweak campaigns to align with changing user behaviors and market trends.
    • Measurable outcomes: Expect clear metrics through Google Analytics, comprehensive analyses, and a constant flow of performance data for informed decision-making.
    • Scalable success: Whether you’re a budding startup or an established enterprise, Google Ads consultants provide scalable solutions that grow with your business.

    Google Ads has the potential to yield significant returns, with reports showing an average ROI of 200%. This means for every $1 invested, businesses can expect an impressive $2 return.

    By bringing a consultant onto your team, you can tap into expert strategies and insights to help ensure your campaigns align with these promising figures.

    Their expertise can be invaluable in navigating the complexities of Google Ads, helping you to optimize your investments and see tangible results.

Stephanie Trovato

Stephanie Trovato

Stephanie Trovato is an experienced marketer and content expert in the B2B space with a background in international trade and marketing analytics. A multi-channel storyteller and strategist with over a decade of copywriting and content marketing experience, Stephanie's expertise spans the marketing, technology, SaaS, ecommerce, and workplace management industries. Her work has been featured on industry-leading sites including Oracle, Evernote, HubSpot, Investopedia, and Forbes.