What is the Google Display Network?

The Google Display Network is part of Google’s advertising universe. Businesses place text, image or video ads on websites that partner with Google. The Display Network can be an effective way to reach potential customers who are interested in your products or services but aren’t actively searching for them.

Here are three examples, two from the New York Times and one from a travel website:

Google Display Network Example

image ad example

image ad example

While Google’s Search ads appear in search results, Display Network ads appear on websites. Both kinds of advertising are pay-per-click, meaning businesses pay for the ad when someone clicks on it.

Here are some tips for getting the most out of advertising on Google’s Display Network.

Use Demographic Targeting with Display Network Ads

Demographic targeting is the key to success with Display Network ads. Google offers a variety of targeting options. Here’s a small sample:

sample demigraphic topics

Display Network ads require careful demographic targeting to ensure only people who could become your customers click on your ads. A campaign’s list of excluded demographic interests can be just as important as the topics that are included. For most businesses, I recommend their exclusions list include some of the following:

Sample demographic exclusions

Create Image and Video Ads to Get the Most Impact

Last month, I wrote “How to Extend Your Reach with Google Image and Video Ads.” While text ads are the go-to format for search advertising, image and video ads are much more suited for display advertising. With search advertising, customers are already searching for your product. With display advertising, you need to work harder to earn their attention. Display ads should be as attractive and interesting as advertisements you would run in a magazine.

Get More Ideas

Google has several case studies for how brands like Jordan, Yankee Candle and match.com have used the Display Network, which you can check out here.

Have questions? Email me at amanda@zooinajungle.com

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