When to Switch to Smart Bidding (And Which Strategy to Choose)
Wait for 30+ conversions per month before using Smart Bidding. Start with Maximize Conversions, then graduate to Target CPA or Target ROAS.
Why This Matters
Smart Bidding needs data to optimize. Switching too early leads to wild swings and wasted budget. A phased approach lets you build data while maintaining control.
How To Implement
1. Manual CPC phase: Run until you have 15-30 conversions and understand your baseline CPA.
2. Maximize Conversions: Let Google find conversions without a target. Monitor CPA closely.
3. Once stable for 2 weeks, calculate your average CPA and set as Target CPA (add 10-20% buffer).
4. For ecommerce: Use Maximize Conversion Value first, then Target ROAS.
5. Give each phase 2-4 weeks before changing.
6. Don't stack bid strategy changes with budget changes - do one at a time.
Pro Tip
Set your Target CPA 15% higher than your goal initially. It's easier to lower a target than to recover from a campaign tanked by an aggressive target.
Want Expert Help with Google Ads Management?
Let our team implement these optimization strategies for you.