Google is Sunsetting Call Ads: How You Should Prepare
Have you ever clicked on an ad on your phone that made a call directly to a business? Those are called call ads. Google has decided to stop using these call ads soon. There is no definitive date yet, but it could be as early as 2025. This change is pretty big, especially for businesses that use them to get more customers. Let’s talk through what this means for your business and what you can do to get ready for this update.
Why Google is Saying Goodbye to Call Ads
Google is always looking for new and better ways to help businesses reach their customers. Sometimes that means sunsetting previously working systems and upgrading to new ones. In the case of call ads, Google is moving this to responsive search ads. Call ads have been helpful, but Google believes there are more effective ways to connect people with businesses. While change doesn’t always go over well with the general audience, Google wants to focus on improved performance and adaptable behaviors.
Potential Timeline for Sunsetting Call Ads
While Google has yet to announce a definitive date, it’s expected that the transition could happen as early as 2025. This timeline allows businesses some time to adjust their strategies and adopt new advertising methods. Staying informed about these updates is crucial for making a smooth transition, according to this source from Search Engine Roundtable.
What This Means for Businesses
Once Google announces the change to responsive search ads, there are some great benefits. These include the flexibility of creating ads that adapt and generate different combinations to optimize your campaign. You will experience increased reach, which will drive both phone and online interactions. Additionally, you will have greater control over the details and other assets of your ads.
How to Prepare for the Change
Update Your Online Presence
First things first, make sure your website is up-to-date and easy to use. If people can’t call you directly from an ad anymore, they should be able to find everything they need on your website. This means clear contact information, a simple layout, and all the important details about your business. Having an informative and user-friendly website can help potential customers find the information they need quickly, which can lead to higher conversion rates, as suggested by Google Ads Help. Need website and advertising assistance? Take a look at our services or send us a message! We’d love to help you.
Use Other Google Ads Features
Even though call ads are going away, there are still lots of other Google Ads options that can help your business. For example, you can use text ads, video ads, or shopping ads to reach your customers. These types of ads can show up when people search for things related to your business, watch videos, or shop online. Each type of ad has its own advantages. Text ads can quickly get your message across in search results, video ads can engage users with compelling content, and shopping ads can directly display your products to potential customers.
Try Social Media
Social media is another great way to connect with customers. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter) let you create posts, share updates, and even run ads. Social media can help you reach new people and keep in touch with your current customers. It’s also an excellent platform for interacting with customers in real time, answering their questions, and building a community around your brand.
Focus on Customer Service
When people can’t call you directly from an ad, they might need other ways to get in touch. Make sure your customer service is top-notch. This could mean answering emails quickly, having a live chat option on your website, or even being active on social media to answer questions. Good customer service can set your business apart and build customer loyalty. It shows customers that you care about their experience and are always ready to help.
Conclusion
Google sunsetting call ads is a big change, but it’s not the end of the world. It’s a chance to try new things and find even better ways to reach your customers. So, get ready, explore new options, and make sure your business keeps growing! There are ongoing updates for the call ads sunsetting, and we will update this article as more information is posted.
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