To be frank, “how to start a Google Ads agency” is far from a simple lesson. The preparation process is enough to make you burn the midnight oil. To help entrepreneurs step into this field more confidently and avoid as many risks as possible, we’ve decided to compile this thorough guide.
It includes all the essentials you need to prepare before officially launching such an important establishment and selling your Google Ads services. Let’s get the ball rolling!
Table of contents
How Does a Google Ad Agency Work?
A Google Ads agency functions as a specialized entity dedicated to managing paid advertising campaigns for businesses and brands across the Google Ads platform and other relevant advertising platforms.
Essentially, it serves as an extension of a company’s marketing team, offering expertise and services in the world of online advertising.
The agency typically includes a team of specialists proficient in various aspects of digital marketing, particularly in Google Ads. These professionals handle tasks such as campaign setup, optimization, monitoring, and performance analysis.
They are responsible for ensuring that ad campaigns align with the client’s objectives and deliver optimal results within the allocated budget.
How To Start A Google Ads Agency? 6 Keys You Need
Rarely can we find a Google marketing agency that successfully runs without any factor among these six keys below. Even so, the business is not going to survive the harsh competition and stand still in the long haul.
Google AdWords certification
Google AdWords certification is the first and foremost factor when launching a Google Ads agency. The certification demonstrates that your agency and its specialists possess the required expertise to manage client accounts effectively within the Google Ads platform.
Furthermore, achieving Google Partners status is a critical milestone for your agency.
The Google Partners Program offers three tiers: Member, Partner, and Premier Partner. With Partner or Premier Partner status, your agency gains access to valuable benefits such as public recognition, exclusive tools, enhanced customer support, and educational resources.
Professional website for Google Ads services
A professional website is a cornerstone for launching a successful Google Ads agency. It serves as your online storefront, introducing your expertise, services, and achievements.
Invest in a website that highlights your Google Partner status, successful case studies, and relevant keywords to improve search engine visibility.
Google Ads agencies offer a variety of services tailored to meet businesses’ needs, such as Google Ads ad optimization, campaign management, account setup, PPC Google advertising, or Google agency account for rent.
A well-designed website should outline these services in detail, emphasizing your ability to handle various aspects of Google Ads management.
Take advantage of various social media platforms, including LinkedIn, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram. It allows you to build brand awareness, extend your reach, and engage with your target audience.
Tools like SproutSocial or Iconosquare can help enhance your social media management efforts. They enable you to monitor audience engagement, schedule posts, and analyze performance metrics. Also, these tools streamline the process of posting content across multiple platforms, ascertaining consistency in your social media strategy.
We suggest creating a consistent social media calendar to generate sustained traffic and maintain a strong brand presence. By planning and scheduling posts in advance, you can have regular and timely content updated across various social media platforms.
Robust business model
1. Clear business plan
This plan serves as a roadmap for your agency’s long-term success and outlines key elements such as target audience, unique value proposition mission, and goals.
First and foremost, define your agency’s brand values and mission statement. The statement should succinctly communicate the purpose and values that drive your agency’s operations and set the tone for your brand identity.
Next, identify your agency’s business goals, including both short-term objectives and long-term aspirations. These goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).
After that, determine your target audience and niche market. Understand the demographics, pain points, and interests of your ideal clients to tailor your services and marketing efforts effectively. This targeted approach allows you to differentiate your agency from competitors and attract clients who align with your agency’s expertise and value proposition.
2. Operational & legal setup
This step requires careful attention to detail to ensure compliance and minimize legal risks. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:
- Business licenses and insurance
Obtain the necessary business licenses and permits required to operate legally in your chosen state or jurisdiction. Additionally, consider investing in business insurance to protect your agency against potential liabilities and risks.
- EIN number
Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) – a unique identifier assigned to your business for tax purposes. It is compulsory for opening a business bank account and filing taxes.
- Business bank account
Open a separate business bank account for your agency to keep your personal and business finances separate
- Other legal documentation
Prepare and maintain significant legal documents, such as privacy policies, client contracts, and service agreements. These documents outline the terms and conditions of your services, protect your agency’s interests, and establish clear expectations with clients.
3. A team of Google Ads specialists
Look for Google Ads specialists who possess a deep understanding of managing client accounts across various industries. They should be proficient in Google Ads campaign management, including Google Search, Display Network, and other ad formats.
Platforms, like Fiverr or Upwork, are valuable resources for finding skilled professionals who can work on a full-time or part-time basis. Browse through profiles and portfolios to identify candidates with relevant experience and expertise.
SpeedX Agency always considers candidates who have previous experience working at another Google Ads agency or have a proven track record of success in managing Google Ads campaigns. Industry experience brings valuable insights and best practices to our agency.
At the same time, don’t forget to sharpen your networking skills both online and offline to connect with industry professionals and potential clients. Utilize platforms like LinkedIn Premium to reach out to prospects authentically and pitch your agency’s services effectively.
A comprehensive management tool set
To effectively manage Google Ads campaigns, you need a comprehensive set of management tools covering various aspects of creative asset creation, campaign creation, analytics, and communication:
- Google Ads management tools
Tools like SEMrush, Ahrefs, SpyFu, Optmyzr, or Google Ads Editor assist in keyword research, campaign organization, ad creation, and competitor analysis.
- Communication and project management tools
Utilize platforms like Slack and Notion for seamless team communication and project organization. Slack enables instant messaging and file sharing, while Notion offers a versatile workspace for collaborative project management.
- Analytics and reporting tools
Google Analytics provides insights into campaign performance, user behavior, and conversions, facilitating data-driven decision-making. Specialized reporting tools like Google Looker Studio offer visually compelling reports for effective client communication.
- Graphic design tools
Invest in tools like Canva for creating visually appealing creative assets aligned with ad campaigns. These assets include graphics and photos that enhance ad effectiveness and user engagement.
Reasonable pricing
Set your rates to be competitive within the market while ensuring they are profitable for your agency. Consider factors such as your agency’s level of expertise, the value you provide to clients, and the quality of your services.
Remember to clearly communicate your pricing structure and any additional fees or charges to clients upfront to avoid misunderstandings later on. Transparency builds trust and credibility with clients.
Bonus tip: Offer some level of customization to new clients to cater to their specific needs and budget constraints. Flexible pricing options increase your agency’s appeal and enable you to serve a broader range of clients within your target market.
How Much Does It Cost To Start A Google Ads Agency?
When registering your business, you’ll need to cover registration fees, which vary depending on your location and the type of business entity you choose (e.g., sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation).
Generally, you will not be looking to invest more than $2000 to kickstart a Google marketing agency. Yet, one of the significant costs is hiring employees, particularly Google Ads specialists who will manage client accounts. The average salary for a Google Ads specialist in the US is around $60,000 per year.
As you scale your agency, you may need to hire additional specialists, as well as other staff such as account managers, HR personnel, and administrative staff.
A surefire thing is that, paying for all the expenses listed above, you will get the desired ROI, and the results are going to be rewarding, provided you have the right development strategies for your business. There must be good reasons many Google agencies out there are fighting tooth and nail for their Google marketing agencies, right?
Read more: Is Google AdSense Profitable?
Should You Start A Google Ads Agency?
Is it a good idea for you to learn how to start a Google Ads agency ?
First of all, consider your ability to provide value to clients. Do you have unique skills or insights that set you apart from other agencies? Clients seek agencies that can offer innovative solutions and deliver tangible results, so it’s essential to assess whether you can meet these expectations.
Another important aspect to consider is whether you have the necessary experience to effectively manage a Google Ads agency. Without prior experience, attracting clients and delivering satisfactory results can be challenging. You need to gain experience by working at an agency or freelancing before starting your own business.
Google Ads management requires more than just certifications. While certifications are valuable, practical experience and expertise are equally important for delivering successful campaigns and avoiding costly mistakes.
If you believe you have the right combination of skills and resources to succeed in this venture, then it may be worth pursuing.
Conclusion
Learning how to start a Google Ads agency is not an overnight task, and it requires more than just a passion for the platform. It’s essential to have a clear business plan, a team of specialists, a comprehensive management toolset, and a strong social media presence. Additionally, understanding the operational and legal requirements, as well as establishing reasonable pricing, are key factors for success.
By focusing on these six must-have keys, aspiring entrepreneurs can set themselves up for a successful venture in the competitive world of Google Ads agencies.
