A negative keyword tells Google Ads which searches your ad should not show for. It is the most effective way to stop budget being spent on irrelevant searches.
For example, a clinic offering paid dental treatment can add “free”, “public hospital” or “job” as negatives so it doesn’t pay for clicks from those searches.
Negatives can be added at campaign or ad group level. Reviewing the search terms report regularly and updating the list is the most basic maintenance that improves Google Ads efficiency.
EXAMPLE
Adding “jobs”, “salary” and “internship” as negatives to an “alanya dental clinic” campaign blocks clicks from job seekers.
PRACTICAL TIPS
- 01Review the search terms report every week.
- 02Start new campaigns with a ready-made negative keyword list.
- 03Make sure you don’t accidentally add your own brand as a negative.