If you're running Google Display Ads, one of the key things you'll want to know is where exactly your ads are showing. Are they appearing on relevant websites? Are they getting clicks from quality placements, or are they showing up in apps where they don't belong?
When I first started with Google Display Ads, I had the same questions. So, in this blog, I’ll answer common questions about where your ads can appear and walk you through step-by-step how to check the exact placements for your campaigns.
Common Questions About Google Display Ads
1. Where Do Google Display Ads Show?
Google Display Ads appear across millions of websites, apps, and YouTube. Google partners with these platforms to display your ads to users based on targeting settings. Your ads can show:
- On specific websites
- In mobile apps (like games or utility apps)
- Inside Google’s app ecosystem (such as Google Play)
- On YouTube, alongside videos
- Within Google’s own properties like Gmail
2. Can I See Which Websites or Apps My Ads Are Showing On?
Yes! Google Ads gives you detailed reports showing the exact placements on websites, apps, or YouTube channels. You can use this information to refine your targeting and exclude placements that aren't relevant.
3. Can I Exclude Apps or Specific Websites?
Absolutely! If your ads are showing on apps or websites that don't convert, or you feel they aren't relevant to your audience, you can exclude them from your campaign.
Now that we’ve covered the basics, here’s how you can check exactly where your Google Display Ads are appearing and how to exclude underperforming placements.
1. Select all Campaigns
Log in and select the main "Campaigns" icon
2. Select Your Display Campaign
Navigate to "Campaigns" and select the specific Display Campaign you want to analyze.
3. Click "Insights and Reports" Tab
Once inside the campaign, look for the "Insights and Reports" section in the left-side panel. Click on it to open up additional reporting options.
4. Click "Where and When Ads Showed"
Under the Insights and Reports menu, select "Where and When Ads Showed."
5. Click "Where Ads Showed" & Analyze Placements
In the center section, click on "Where Ads Showed" to get a full list of placements. Now, you'll see the list of websites, apps, or YouTube channels where your ads have been shown. For each placement, you can review all performance metrics. If you find any placements that aren’t relevant to your campaign, you can exclude them here.
Summary:
Knowing where your Google Display Ads are being shown is crucial for campaign success. By following this guide, you'll be able to see the exact placements of your ads and take steps to refine your strategy for better performance.
As someone who started out with the same questions, I hope this guide helps you get more control over your ad placements and improve your campaign results and if you'd like more help with your Google Ads account, you can checkout my Digital Marketing services by clicking here.
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