How do I set up a Google Ads campaign?

by | Aug 18, 2025 | Blog

How Do I Set Up a Google Ads Campaign? A Complete Guide by Milton Keynes Marketing

Introduction

Launching a successful Google Ads campaign is essential for local businesses looking to increase visibility and drive targeted traffic. At Milton Keynes Marketing, we specialise in helping our clients harness the power of PPC advertising effectively. This guide will walk you through every step needed to set up a Google Ads campaign from scratch.

Understanding Google Ads and Its Benefits

Google Ads allow you to place your business in front of potential customers actively searching for your products or services. This platform offers precise targeting, measurable results, and flexible budget options, making it ideal for local marketing efforts.

Pre-Setup Preparations

Before creating your campaign, ensure you have clear objectives. Decide whether your goal is to generate leads, increase website traffic, or promote specific products. Collect all necessary information, including your website URL, target keywords, and budget considerations.

1. Define Your Campaign Goals

Identify specific, measurable objectives that align with your business needs. Clear goals will guide your campaign setup and optimisation strategies.

2. Conduct Keyword Research

Use tools like Google Keyword Planner to find relevant keywords. Focus on local intent keywords, such as “plumber in Milton Keynes” or “digital marketing services MK”.

3. Know Your Audience

Determine the demographics and interests of your ideal customers. This will influence your targeting options within Google Ads.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Google Ads Campaign

1. Create or Sign in to Your Google Ads Account

Visit the Google Ads homepage and sign in with your Google account or create a new account. This will be your central hub for managing campaigns.

2. Set Your Campaign Objective

After signing in, click on “New Campaign”. Select your campaign goal, such as “Leads” or “Website Traffic”. Opt for “Search” network for most local campaigns.

3. Choose Campaign Settings

Campaign Type

Select “Search” to appear on Google search results.

Locations

Target Milton Keynes specifically or surrounding areas to focus your local audience.

Languages

Choose the language your audience speaks, typically “English” for UK-based campaigns.

Budget and Bidding

Set your daily budget based on your overall marketing plan. Choose bidding strategies like “Maximise Clicks” or “Target CPA” depending on your goals.

Ad Extensions

Add extensions such as sitelinks, callouts, or call extensions to make your ads more appealing and functional.

4. Create Your Ad Groups

Organise your campaign into ad groups based on topics or services. For each group, define keywords and create relevant ads.

Choosing Keywords

Use your earlier research to select targeted keywords with high intent. Implement match types—broad, phrase, and exact—for optimal control.

Writing Ad Copy

Create compelling headlines and descriptions. Include call-to-actions like “Call Today” or “Get a Free Estimate”.

5. Designing Effective Ads

Ensure your ad copy aligns with your keywords and target audience. Highlight unique selling points and local expertise.

Ad Headline Tips

Use local references, include keywords, and keep headlines concise.

Ad Description Tips

Focus on benefits, offers, and clear calls-to-action. Incorporate relevant keywords naturally.

6. Finalise and Launch Your Campaign

Review all settings, ad copy, and extensions. Use the preview tool to see how your ad will appear. When ready, click “Publish” to activate your campaign.

Optimising Your Google Ads Campaign

Setting up your campaign is just the beginning. Consistent optimisation ensures you get the best return.

Monitor Performance Regularly

Use Google Ads analytics to track impressions, clicks, conversions, and cost-per-acquisition.

Adjust Bids and Budget

Increase bids on high-performing keywords and pause underperformers.

Refine Keywords

Add negative keywords to eliminate irrelevant traffic. Expand keyword lists based on search term reports.

Test Ad Variations

A/B test different headlines and descriptions for the best results.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid setting a minimal initial budget or neglecting negative keywords. Failing to monitor performance can result in wasted spend.

Conclusion

Creating a Google Ads campaign requires planning, precise targeting, and ongoing optimisation. At Milton Keynes Marketing, we help local businesses achieve their online advertising goals efficiently.

FAQs

  1. How much should I budget for a Google Ads campaign?
    Your budget depends on your goals and industry, but starting with £10-£20 daily is common for small businesses.
  2. How long does it take for my ads to start appearing?
    Ads typically go live within a few hours after review, but optimising performance is an ongoing process.
  3. Can I target specific neighbourhoods in Milton Keynes?
    Yes, Google Ads allows precise geographic targeting down to neighbourhood level.
  4. What are negative keywords, and why are they important?
    Negative keywords prevent your ads from showing on irrelevant searches, saving budget and improving targeting.
  5. How do I measure the success of my Google Ads campaign?
    Use Google Ads and Google Analytics to track conversions, click-through rates, and other KPIs related to your goals.
  6. Should I hire a professional to manage my Google Ads?
    If you lack experience or time, working with PPC experts like Milton Keynes Marketing can optimise results and ROI.
  7. Can I run local ads without a website?
    While a website helps, you can set up call extensions or local business profile ads directly within Google Ads.
  8. What is Quality Score and why does it matter?
    Quality Score affects ad rankings and costs; it reflects ad relevance, landing page experience, and expected CTR.
  9. How often should I optimise my campaign?
    Regular reviews, at least weekly, can help adapt to changing performance or market trends.
  10. What are the best practices for writing ad copy?
    Keep headlines clear and relevant, focus on benefits, include keywords, and include strong calls-to-action.

For a free consultation please contact us through our Milton Keynes PPC agency