Measure and optimize your advertising campaigns with SEA

Published by
Charlotte Nowak
Content Manager

In order to increase your return on investment of your online ads while reducing your costs. you will need to carry out a SEA analysis analysis.

In this comprehensive guide, we dive deep into SEA (Search Engine Advertising) (Search Engine Advertising) analysis, reveal its secrets and show you how to turn your advertising campaigns into performance machines.

Overview of SEA analysis

What is SEA analysis?

SEA analysis is a strategic process that dissects every aspect of your search engine advertising efforts to extract valuable insights.

But how does SEA analysis differ from other forms of marketing analysis? To help you understand, here's a quick rundown of the different marketing strategies commonly used:

  • SEA analysis: Focused on paid search engine advertising campaigns.
  • SEO analysis : Focused on improving natural referencing.
  • Social network analysis : Study performance on social platforms.
Different marketing strategies 

SEA analysis stands out for its ability to provide real-time data and enable immediate adjustments to optimize ROI.

Why has SEA analysis become indispensable?

You may be asking yourself, "Is SEA analysis really worth the investment in time and resources?" The answer is YES, and here's why:

The benefits of regular analysis :

  1. Real-time adjustments : Imagine being able to react instantly to changes in the market: that's the promise of SEA.
  2. Cost optimization : A detailed analysis enables you to allocate your budget where it has the greatest impact.
  3. Improve conversion rates : Turn more clicks into loyal customers by understanding what really resonates with your audience.

Impact on profitability and overall strategy

SEA analysis isn't just about numbers, it's a real strategic lever.

By optimizing your campaigns through careful analysis, you don't just improve your short-term performance, you refine your understanding of the market and your audience.

In short, you shape a more robust and enduring marketing strategy.

SEA analysis: key steps

Ready to dive right in? Here's a step-by-step guide to conducting a SEA analysis that will make all the difference:

Step 1: Defining objectives and KPIs

Start by asking yourself: "What do we really want to achieve with our SEA campaigns?" You can use the SMART method to define clear, measurable objectives. Here are the essential KPIs to monitor:

  • Cost-per-click (CPC)
  • Conversion rates
  • Cost per acquisition (CPA)
  • Return on investment (ROI)
  • Click-through rate (CTR)
  • Quality Score

Pro tip : Align your SEA KPIs with your overall business objectives for maximum consistency.

Step 2: Data collection and analysis

This is where the magic happens. Use powerful tools like Google Ads, Google Analytics, and SEMrush to extract valuable data.

Don't neglect your attribution model. In a SEA strategy, it's essential to understand which advertising touchpoint contributed most to a conversion, enabling you to optimize your ad spend.

Case in point : Let's say you discover that 60% of your conversions come from multiple interactions with your ads. This information could prompt you to rethink your remarketing strategy.

Step 3: Ad and keyword analysis

Now's the time to dissect the performance of every element of your campaigns. You can use SEMrush not only to analyze your own campaigns, but also to spy (legally!) on your competitors' strategies.

Step 4: Audience segmentation and analysis

Who are the people behind the clicks? Segmenting your audience allows you to personalize your campaigns for maximum impact. Analyze performance according to demographic, geographic and behavioral criteria.

Step 5: Optimization and fine-tuning

It's time to take action! Based on your analysis and the key metrics collected, make strategic adjustments to your campaigns:

  • adjust bids on star keywords ;
  • fine-tune your ad copy to boost CTR;
  • optimize your landing pages to convert more ;
  • experiment with new targeting strategies.
ATS levers 

Tools and best practices for SEA analysis

Recommended SEA Analysis Tools

A good craftsman needs the best tools. Here's the ultimate toolbox for your SEA analysis:

Best practices to adopt

Here are a few tips for conducting an effective SEA analysis:

  • Regular analysis : Carry out regular audits, especially before peaks in activity such as the holiday season.
  • A/B test constant : Continuously test different versions of your ads to fine-tune your performance.
  • Trend tracking : Stay on top of new Google Ads features and changes in consumer behavior.

Common mistakes to avoid

A few mistakes to avoid if you're just starting out with SEA :

  • Neglecting conversion data : Clicks are only part of the equation. Focus on what actually generates results.
  • Ignore Quality Score : A high Quality Score can significantly reduce your costs and improve your position.
  • Forgetting to analyze the competition : Your SEA strategy shouldn't exist in a vacuum. Always keep an eye on your competitors.

Case studies: the example of a sportswear e-commerce site

An e-commerce company specializing in the sale of sportswear carried out an in-depth analysis of its SEA campaigns. This analysis enabled them to learn more about their target behavior and adapt their strategy. Here's a breakdown of the actions taken following the analysis:

  1. Analysis discovery : Mobile ads have a 30% higher conversion rate than desktop ads.

  • Action : Increase bids on mobile devices by 15%.
  • Result : 25% increase in mobile conversions in 2 months.

  1. Analysis findings : Long-tail keywords generate 50% more conversions at 20% lower CPA.

  • Action : Development of a long tail strategy with the creation of new targeted ad groups.
  • Result : Overall conversion rate increased by 15% and CPA reduced by 10%.

  1. Analysis findings : Ad extensions are under-optimized, reducing CTR potential.

  • Action : Optimize extensions with more powerful and relevant calls to action.
  • Result : 20% improvement in CTR without any significant increase in CPC.

Result : After 3 months, the company saw its overall conversion rate increase by 25%, its cost per acquisition decrease by 15%, and its ROI improve by 35%.

SEA analysis isn't just a step in your digital marketing strategy; it's an ongoing ongoing process that can truly transform your advertising campaigns and boost your ROI.

By following the steps detailed in this guide, using the right tools, and avoiding common mistakes, you'll be able to :

  • Optimize your advertising spend for a better return on investment.
  • In-depth understanding of your audience's preferences of your audience.
  • Stay ahead of the competition in an ever-changing digital landscape.
  • Make data-driven decisions based on concrete rather than assumptions.

Remember, SEA analysis is not a destination, but a journey. The digital landscape is constantly evolving, and your approach needs to evolve with it. Stay curious, keep testing, and don't be afraid to experiment to experiment with new strategies based on your analyses.

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300+ Clients
100+ Talents
Cutting-edge Growth Marketing