It’s probably about time we admitted that Google is a huge part of our lives, especially as business professionals. SEO is one of our key functions, and finding out how keywords are trending on Google generally takes up large portions of our day. You might jokingly refer to yourself as a “Google Ads Professional,” given how much time you spend on the site.
But did you know that Google actually offers certifications in Google Ads?
Why You Need to Get a Google Ads certification?
A certification in Google Ads tells clients that you’ve not only done the research, but you have actually demonstrated mastery of the program in a professional capacity. It’s easy to see why prospective clients might be pleased to see this type of certification on your resume.
So how do you get started? What are the steps? Take a look at the process here, so you can learn how to get certified in Google Ads.
What Is a Google Ads Certification?
Google offers six different types of certification through Google Ads:
- Google Ads Search
- Google Ads Display
- Google Ads Video
- Shopping ads
- Google Ads Apps
- Google Ads Measurement
Each course covers different material. For example, a Google Ads Search certification will focus on building a campaign with certain objectives and guidelines while utilizing specific tools within the Google Search function. Google Ads Video, on the other hand, focuses on maximizing YouTube content to increase your audience.
All of these topics can be very useful for nearly every digital marketer, so what are the advantages of having certification in Google Ads?
Benefits
The first main benefit is the knowledge that you’ll receive along the way. You’ll receive learning path study guides and assessments from Google directly in order to receive the certification. Additionally, having professional certification can give you an advantage over your competitors. If you’re a marketing professional, you’ll have demonstrable expertise. If you’re a business owner, you’ll gain greater insight into the process, which can help you fine-tune your own campaigns.
Lastly, if you are interested in participating in the Google Partners program, certifications such as these are required. However, bear in mind that individuals can become Google Ads certified, while only companies or businesses can become Google Partners, once all requirements are met.
How To Start Google Ads Certification?
First, you’ll need to set up your Skillshop account (link here). Skillshop is Google’s training and learning platform, so you’ll sign up using your Google account.
This will give you access to learning path training as well as certification assessments on a variety of topics. Once you’ve created a Skillshop account, you’ll be able to set parameters for your progress, as well as search for certification topics that are helpful for your role or professional development.
Google does recommend having some experience with using the features of Google Ads (learn more here) prior to starting a certification learning path; however, each path includes study material and knowledge assessment to review before completing the assessment.
Additionally, each certification includes a posted completion time frame, along with whether the course is best suited for Beginners, Intermediate-skilled users, or Advanced. Once you feel confident in the topic, you can click on the assessment link to receive certification.
Passing Criteria
To successfully pass an assessment, you must score at least an 80% on it. You’ll be given 75 minutes to complete it, though you can pause the test if necessary. If you do not pass the assessment, you can take it again in one day.
Once received, your certification will be valid for one year. At that time, you’ll need to complete the assessment again in order to renew your certification.
What Does This Mean for You and Your Clients?
Once you’ve completed your assessment, you are able to tell your clients that you are a certified online advertising professional.
For those becoming Google Ad certified to boost your own skills for promoting your personal business, it may not mean as much to your customers as it would a marketing professional, but it can definitely improve your own campaign building skills.
Regardless of your motivation behind achieving Google Ad certification, you will be able to share your accomplishments. You can indicate your certification on LinkedIn, your resume, and even social media.
Or you can even resell your new skills in the marketplace, for example becoming a virtual assistant.
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Growing your knowledge base is a great idea for anyone who is looking to build their personal portfolio or for those who wish to be on the cutting edge of current trends in the marketing world.
Get Started Today
Becoming certified in Google Ads can be helpful for business owners and marketing professionals alike. Not only can it boost your skill set, but it will help you gain insider knowledge into some of the tools used by marketers around the world.
To get started, use your Google account to create a Skillshop profile (this is the link), and start learning! Remember, take your time, and take advantage of the free tools provide to you along the way.