Do you run Adwords ads?
If so, pay close attention - this could save you a lot of headaches.
Google is in the process of rolling out a new "recommended ad" system. This is part of their move towards making the platform more automated.
Basically, what this means is that Google can create its own ad copy for your account (which it believes will be high performing) and then automatically apply that to your campaigns.
A recommendation will be made, and then automatically applied after 14 days.
Google claims this is going to help improve performance in advertisers' accounts. What they really mean is it will get more clicks on Adwords ads, meaning more $ for them.
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Do you really want Google in charge of picking your ad copy?
Remember, your ads are a reflection of your brand. You should be in control of how your brand looks to the public.
Furthermore, there is a high likelihood that your best performing ads (which Google will riff off) will be from sales/promotions that might not even be running any more. This could frustrate customers and damage your reputation.
So how can you stop Adwords hijacking your ad copy?
Here's how to do it:
1) Make sure you are using the new Adwords interface
2) Click "settings" in the left hand nav bar
3) Click on "account settings"
4) Click the "ad suggestions" dropdown and select "Don't automatically apply ad suggestions".
Google will still suggest ads BUT they will not automatically apply.
I'd hate to see anyone get caught out by this by mistake. If you get stuck at any stage please do get in touch.