Google is causing quite a stir in the world of PPC marketing with its latest test feature: the People Also Consider label on branded search ads. The label appears as a grey box positioned underneath the company name, logo, and URL in search results. However, what exactly is the purpose of this label and how will it impact businesses?
The confusion surrounding this new feature was highlighted by Anthony Higman, CEO of online advertising agency Adsquire. He expressed his perplexity on social media, questioning why there would be anything else for people to consider when searching for his brand. He also raised concerns that Google might be throwing businesses into their competitors’ ad auctions unsolicited and then simply labeling it as “People Also Consider.” Higman’s comments suggest that this move by Google may not be as clever or innovative as it initially appears.
Google has remained tight-lipped about the purpose of this new feature and has not provided any further explanations. When contacted by Search Engine Land for comment, the tech giant did not respond. This lack of explanation leaves marketers and businesses in the dark about the intentions behind the People Also Consider label.
This new badge comes on the heels of another test feature spotted by Shalom Goodman, a search marketer. Goodman noticed a “Related to your search” badge on search ads, appearing in a similar grey box format. It seems that Google is experimenting with different ways to enhance the user experience and provide more relevant search results. However, without any official statements from Google, it’s difficult to fully understand their motives.
The introduction of the People Also Consider label has sparked concerns among PPC marketers. If Google starts placing companies into their competitors’ ad auctions, it could have detrimental effects on business. Customers searching for a specific brand may end up seeing ads from competitors instead, potentially leading them to make a purchase from a competitor instead of the intended brand. This could result in lost sales and a poorer user experience for customers.
It remains to be seen how Google will navigate this new feature and address the concerns raised by marketers. Will they provide more information and clarification, or will they continue to keep their cards close to their chest? Only time will tell.
In conclusion, Google’s implementation of the People Also Consider label on branded search ads has caused confusion and concern among PPC marketers. With no official explanation from Google, it’s unclear what their intentions are with this feature. However, if businesses are forced into their competitors’ ad auctions, it could have negative implications for sales and user experience. Marketers will be eagerly awaiting further updates from Google to gain a better understanding of their plans.
