Glossaries
PPC
What is PPC (Pay-Per-Click) in Growth Hacking?
PPC (Pay-Per-Click) is an online advertising model where advertisers pay a fee each time their ad is clicked. It's a way of buying visits to your site, rather than attempting to "earn" those visits organically.
Synonyms: Pay-Per-Click, Paid Search, Search Engine Marketing, SEM, Paid Advertising
How PPC Works in Growth Hacking
PPC is a powerful tool in a growth hacker's arsenal. In this model, advertisers bid on keyword phrases relevant to their target market. When a user searches for those keywords, the advertiser's ad may appear in the search results. The advertiser pays only when the ad is clicked, hence the name "pay-per-click."
Benefits of PPC for Rapid Growth
- Immediate Results: Unlike SEO, which can take months to show results, PPC can drive traffic to your site instantly.
- Highly Targeted: You can target users based on location, device, time of day, and even previous behaviors.
- Measurable and Trackable: Every aspect of a PPC campaign can be measured, allowing for data-driven optimization.
- Budget Control: You set how much you're willing to spend per day or per campaign.
PPC Platforms for Growth Hackers
- Google Ads: The most popular PPC platform, offering text ads in search results and display ads across the web.
- Facebook Ads: Excellent for B2C companies, offering highly targeted advertising based on user interests and behaviors.
- LinkedIn Ads: Ideal for B2B companies, allowing targeting based on professional attributes like job title or industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What's the difference between PPC and CPC?: PPC refers to the advertising model, while CPC (Cost-Per-Click) is the actual amount you pay for each click.
- Is PPC better than SEO?: Neither is inherently better. PPC offers quick results but ongoing costs, while SEO provides long-term benefits but takes time to show results. Many growth hackers use both strategies.
- How much does PPC cost?: The cost varies widely depending on your industry, competition, and chosen keywords. Some clicks might cost a few cents, while others could cost $50 or more.
- Can PPC work for any business?: While PPC can be effective for most businesses, it's crucial to have a well-planned strategy and budget. It's particularly effective for businesses with high-value products or services.