As a business owner, you expect results from online marketing to happen quickly and significantly; however, sometimes the speed of online advertising success may seem slower than you imagined. If you are using Google Ads for marketing your business, then it is important to understand the process involved with a Google Ad campaign, especially the learning phase of the advertising process. When you appreciate the process, you are less likely to judge the results too quickly and benefit from your own advertising strategy.

What Is the Learning Phase of A Google Ads Campaign?

Once your ad is set live, then the Google Ads system runs algorithms to collect data and determine the best way to deliver your ad to prospective customers. This process can take some time; therefore, it is normal not to see results from your ad campaign for the first few days. Google is testing various keywords, devices, time slots, and audiences during this learning phase to determine where and when the placement of your ad is going to be most effective. Patience is essential during this acquisition period so that your ad can be as successful as possible.

How Long Does the Learning Phase Last?

Generally, you should allow 30–60 days for Google to properly learn and optimize your campaign. This timeline can vary depending on factors like your budget, bidding strategy, and the amount of traffic your ads receive. It’s also important to keep in mind that if you make major changes during this learning period, it can reset or extend the process.

Signals to Look for That Indicate the Learning Phase

Typically, Google will display a “Learning” status under your campaign or bidding strategy. You are probably still in the learning phase if you made a major change to the campaign recently, your cost-per-click is still fluctuating noticeably, or your conversions have not stabilized. 

Best Practices To Do During the Learning Phase

In addition to having patience while Google determines the best way to run your campaign, it is also advisable not to make major changes during the learning phase. It is also valuable to set a realistic budget for your advertising needs and purpose, monitor key metrics without the need for immediate and significant changes, and ensure proper and accurate tracking to optimize Google Ads advertising. 

Bottom Line

Judging your Google Ads campaign during the learning stage can be harmful to the success of the advertising. If you do not allow Google the chance to collect data and experiment with the best way to show your ad, then you risk losing potential for an otherwise successful campaign. It is best to avoid any major changes to your Google Ad campaign during the first 30 days of implementation and refrain from shifting your budget away from a campaign that has just started. The learning phase is a crucial component of a successful advertising campaign. If you withdraw your ad too early, you risk losing money and the opportunity to improve an advertising technique that could have developed more effectively over time. Google Ads is a system that becomes smarter and smarter over time. Allow the system to work its magic before you “pull the plug” too early. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I speed up the learning phase?
You may be able to enhance the process by following a few simple steps, such as avoiding frequent changes to your Google Ads campaign, allocating an adequate daily budget, and broadening your initial target audience, which will increase traffic to your ad. 

What actions can restart the learning phase?
As you have learned, it is important to avoid restarting your Google Ads campaign during the learning phase. Some triggers that can initiate a restart include significantly changing your target audience, creating a new ad, or expanding an existing one, making substantial budget adjustments, or implementing significant keyword changes.

Should I stop the Google Ad during the learning phase if I do not see any results?
Not necessarily. You should expect a slow beginning with a brand-new Google Ads campaign. Over time, as Google learns your ads, it will increase in popularity over time. Allow an adequate amount of time for the campaign to work and stabilize before making any major changes.