"Can You Use a Retargeting List for Google Search Campaigns? Need Advice!"
Hey guys, so I’ve been wondering—can you use a retargeting list for google search campaigns? Like, I know it’s common for display/social, but search? Seems kinda niche.
I tried it once, but the results were meh. Maybe I messed up the setup? Or is it just not worth it?
Would love to hear if anyone’s had success with this. Also, any best practices? Or should I just stick to regular audiences?
Thanks in advance!
(Also, sorry for typos—typing this on my phone lol)
Yeah, you can use a retargeting list for google search campaigns, but it’s not as straightforward as display. Google lets you target past visitors with search ads, but the audience needs to be big enough or it won’t work well.
I’ve had mixed results—sometimes it’s great for high-intent users, other times it’s just meh. Try layering it with a custom intent audience for better targeting.
Also, check out Optmyzr for automation tips. Their tools help tweak search campaigns with retargeting lists.
Wait, really? I didn’t even know you could do this. Always thought retargeting was just for banners and stuff.
But if you can use a retargeting list for google search campaigns, that’s kinda cool. Maybe for branded searches? Like if someone visited your site but didn’t convert, you bid higher for their searches.
Anyone tried this with non-branded keywords? Curious if it works.
Short answer: Yes, you can use a retargeting list for google search campaigns.
Long answer: It’s tricky. The audience has to be actively searching for your keywords, or else you’re just wasting budget. I’d only use it for high-value users—like cart abandoners or repeat visitors.
Pro tip: Exclude converters after 30 days so you’re not annoying people who already bought.
Honestly, I tried this last month and it was a flop. Maybe my list was too small, but the CPCs were insane for barely any conversions.
From what I’ve read, can you use a retargeting list for google search campaigns effectively? Only if you’ve got a ton of traffic. Otherwise, stick to RLSA for Display.
Side note: Google’s docs are kinda vague on this. Frustrating.
Thanks for all the insights, guys! Super helpful to see the mixed experiences.
I’m gonna test this again with a bigger audience and focus on high-intent keywords like some of you suggested. Maybe exclude converters too—didn’t think of that before.
If it flops, I’ll just stick to display retargeting. Appreciate the tips!
It’s possible, but not always worth it. Retargeting lists in search (RLSA) work best when you’re layering them with super relevant keywords.
For example, if someone visited your pricing page, you can bid higher when they search for “best pricing for [your product].”
Tools like SEMrush can help find those high-intent keywords to pair with your list.
I’ve seen success with this, but only in super specific cases. Like, if you’re running a limited-time offer and want to retarget past visitors searching for related terms.
But yeah, can you use a retargeting list for google search campaigns broadly? Nah. It’s niche.
Also, make sure your audience settings are tight—30-day window max, or you’ll bleed cash.
