When to Disregard Google Ads Best Practices (And Why It Matters)

We have all seen the suggestions and optimizations that Google provides in its advertising platform. Google makes it so easy to launch ads that it’s almost plug-and-play. Just accept their defaults—and hope for the best. You can make it even easier by using automated bidding strategies. Automated bidding can simplify campaign management. But relying solely on automation without oversight can reduce control and lead to performance issues. So, when is the right time to put some human guardrails around Google’s advertising best practices?

When Google’s Goals Clash with Your Business Goals

It’s vital to remember that Google designed its platform for scale and automation. That often aligns with Google’s revenue interests, but not always with your business’s unique goals.

When You Need Tighter Control Over Targeting or Budget

Google says to use broad match keywords, maximize conversions, and let smart bidding take over. If you work in a niche industry, have a limited budget, or need specific audience targeting, you might overspend. This can happen if you match on terms that do not relate to your business.

What to do instead (Exact match, manual CPC)

• Monitor your search queries closely and develop robust phrase and exact match terms • Start with CPC bidding to control max bids • Set tCPA goals • Create a portfolio with smart bidding and set a minimum and maximum bid limit.

When You Operate in a Regulated Industry

Google recommends using responsive ads, dynamic creative, and broad match. Following these recommendations can lead to accidental violation of compliance rules. In fields like healthcare, finance, legal, or insurance, it’s best to use a tightly controlled set of keywords.

When Testing New Campaigns or Offers

Google suggests using smart bidding, performance max, or any automated product. Let the algorithm find the best-performing options. When you try something new, you're learning what works. However, the algorithm may not have enough data to optimize. This can lead to spending your budget inefficiently.

What to do instead

• Start with manual bidding • Perform small, controlled A/B tests

When Transparency is Critical to Campaign Success

Remember campaign types like Smart Campaigns and Performance Max limit data visibility into placements, search terms, and audience segments. This limit hinders advertisers from making optimizations that benefit from some form of transparency. Campaigns should all optimize toward YOUR business goals. Leaning into the human side of things balances the push towards automation.

Final Thoughts: Balance Automation with Strategy

At the end of the day, Google’s different products can all be parts of a healthy media mix. However it is essential to remember that they are designed for scale and simplicity, not necessarily your business needs. Treat them as suggestions and ideas to try. Make sure to test and follow where the performance data leads when you are looking for opportunities to grow. Need expert help with your ad strategy? Let’s talk. Contact us today to take control of your campaigns.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Google Ads best practices?

Google Ads best practices are default recommendations provided by Google to optimize your campaign setup, bidding, and targeting, often favoring automation and scalability.

Is smart bidding always the best option in Google Ads?

No. Smart bidding makes management easier, but it’s not the best choice for new campaigns or niche markets. It’s also not optimal when you need tight control and transparency.

When should you avoid Performance Max campaigns?

Avoid them when launching new offers, working in regulated industries, or needing full insight into targeting and placement data.

How can I maintain control over my Google Ads budget?

Use manual bidding. Set tCPA or ROAS goals. Limit match types. Use bid caps in portfolios to avoid overspending.

Are Google’s recommendations biased?

They are not harmful, but they focus on growth and making money. This may not always match your business goals.

What industries should avoid full Google Ads automation?

Industries like healthcare, finance, legal, and insurance need to be careful. They face compliance risks and must control their messaging strictly.