11/08/2024
The most common question in Google Ads circles:
"How can I spy on competitors' ads effectively?"
→ Is it using expensive spy tools?
→ Is it checking every keyword manually?
→ Or is it copying their exact strategy?
Nope. None of those.
So, what's the real method?
There are a few, and they’re easier than you’d think. Let’s break them down 👇
1️⃣ Start with Google searches.
Search your target keywords on Google and see who’s running ads for them. Often, competitors will run “branded” campaigns, bidding on their own names and products to stay top of search results.
But here’s the kicker: You might find unexpected players in your space, too.
2️⃣ Use Google Ads Transparency Center.
It’s like Google’s own spy library. Search for any brand, and you’ll get a collection of their latest ads across Google Search, Display, and YouTube.
Pro tip: Look for repeated keywords in their headlines—these are the high-value keywords they’re focusing on.
3️⃣ Budget smarter with Keyword Planner.
In Google Ads, use Keyword Planner to forecast competitive bids. Check the “Top of page” column to see typical bid ranges and make sure your CPC is competitive.
And don’t forget: Google’s recommendations can help keep your quality scores high and bids optimized.
4️⃣ Analyze with Auction Insights.
This tool shows how you rank next to competitors. It’s great for spotting who’s competing with you in search results and where they’re landing vs. you.
5️⃣ Make it routine.
Spying isn’t one-and-done. Check in monthly or quarterly to see any new competitors, ad copy trends, and keyword shifts.
Want to stay ahead of the game? Follow these steps and make competitor insights work for your advantage!
💬 Drop a comment if these tips helped. Or if you’ve got a go-to tactic for competitor analysis, share it below! 👇
