Glossary

Retargeting

Retargeting

Retargeting is a powerful digital marketing strategy used to re-engage users who have previously interacted with your website or online content but did not complete a desired action, such as making a purchase. By displaying targeted ads to these potential customers as they browse other websites or social media platforms, retargeting helps to keep your brand top-of-mind and encourages conversions.

What is an example of retargeting?

An example of retargeting can be seen when a user visits an online store, adds a product to their cart but leaves without completing the purchase. Later, while browsing other websites or social media, they see ads featuring that specific product or related items, reminding them to return and complete their purchase. This strategy increases the likelihood of converting interested users into customers by keeping the product they considered in their view.

Retargeting vs Remarketing: What is the difference between remarketing and retargeting?

Retargeting and remarketing are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct differences:

  1. Retargeting:
    • Uses online ad placements.
    • Targets users who visited your website but didn't convert.
    • Common platforms: Google Ads, Facebook Ads.
  2. Remarketing:
    • Utilizes email campaigns.
    • Re-engages previous customers or contacts from your database.
    • Common tools: Email service providers (ESPs).

Both strategies aim to bring users back into the conversion funnel but use different channels and techniques.

What is the difference between targeting and retargeting?

Understanding the differences between targeting and retargeting is crucial:

  • Targeting:
    • Reaches potential customers who have not yet interacted with your brand.
    • Based on demographic, geographic, or behavioral criteria.
    • Aims to attract new visitors.
  • Retargeting:
    • Focuses on individuals who have already shown interest by visiting your website.
    • Aims to re-engage these users to complete a purchase or desired action.

Retargeting in digital marketing

Retargeting is a crucial component of digital marketing strategies, enhancing ad spend efficiency and boosting conversion rates. Here’s how it works:

  1. Tracking User Behavior:
    • Uses cookies to track user actions on your website.
  2. Creating Personalized Ads:
    • Develops highly personalized ad campaigns based on user interactions.
  3. Platforms:
    • Google Ads: Google Display Network, YouTube.
    • Facebook Ads: Facebook, Instagram, Audience Network .

Retargeting ads examples

There are numerous examples of effective retargeting ads:

  • E-commerce:
    • Carousel ads on Facebook showcasing previously viewed products.
    • Banner ads featuring discounted flights on travel websites.

These personalized ads are designed to draw users back by reminding them of their initial interest and presenting a compelling reason to return.

Retargeting ads Facebook vs Retargeting ads Google

Both Facebook and Google offer distinct retargeting capabilities:

  • Facebook Retargeting:
    • Ads appear on Facebook, Instagram, and the Audience Network.
    • Highly visual and interactive.
    • Leverages rich user data.
  • Google Retargeting:
    • Ads are placed across the Google Display Network and YouTube.
    • Extensive reach with diverse ad formats.

Choosing the right platform depends on where your audience is more active and the type of engagement you seek.

How successful is retargeting?

Retargeting is known for its high success rates compared to traditional display advertising:

  • Conversion Rates:
    • Retargeting ads can lead to a 70% higher chance of conversion compared to standard display ads.
  • Return on Investment (ROI):
    • Personalized nature of retargeting ads makes them more effective at driving conversions and increasing ROI.

Studies support the effectiveness of retargeting in turning previous visitors into loyal customers.