π What Is Geo-Targeting in SEM?
Geo-targeting (or location targeting) in Search Engine Marketing (SEM) is the practice of showing ads only to users in specific geographic locations β like countries, cities, regions, or even a radius around a point.
π Why Use Geo-Targeting?
It helps you:
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Reach your actual customers where they are.
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Save ad spend by avoiding irrelevant regions.
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Customize ads to local languages, currencies, or promotions.
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Improve click-through rate (CTR) and conversion rates by serving more relevant ads.
π§ When Should You Use It?
Scenario | Geo-Targeting Use Case |
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πͺ Local Business | Show ads only in your city or surrounding area. Example: A Chennai bakery targets a 10km radius. |
π Different Campaigns for Different Countries | E.g., one ad in the U.S., another localized version for the U.K. |
π Service Area Restrictions | You offer delivery only in certain postal codes. |
π£οΈ Language/Cultural Targeting | Tailor messages by region β like "Diwali offer" in India, "Black Friday" in the U.S. |
π High Conversion Regions | Focus budget where conversions are best β using location reports. |
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Go to your campaign settings.
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Choose Locations.
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Set:
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Target: Countries, regions, radius
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Exclude: Areas you donβt want to reach
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Use location options to refine:
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People in or interested in your targeted location
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People searching about your location
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π§ Bonus Tips:
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Use ad customizers to insert city names dynamically into ads.
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Combine geo-targeting with device targeting (e.g., mobile users near your store).
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Use location extensions to show your address and drive foot traffic.