Just a bit about search engine optimization.

A good CTR can often be the difference between having a successful online business or just scraping by a living online. So what is a good CTR?

The first thing you need to understand when asking this question is the fact that there are two networks involved – the Google Search Network and the Google Content Network – and that CTR applies differently to both.

Simply put, the Search network is when you use the Google form to search for keywords. Ads that result from those searches are listed at the top 3 positions and down the right hand side. Ads in the top 3 positions will get CTRs in the 20% range or even more, whilst ads at the bottom of the page will usually drop substantially all the way down to 1% or less.

So it is plain to see that the single most important factor in achieving a good CTR is not how good the copy of your ad is, but in what position your ad is appearing for any given search result.

Now, when looking at the Content Network, CTRs take on a completely different meaning. CTRs achieved on Google’s partner sites in the Content Network are many times lower than similar the figures you will see on the Search Network. Figures of 0.05% would be catastrophic on the Search Network, however, this is not too bad for a Content Network result.

But these low percentages are not the full story. The amount of traffic being generated by the Content Network far outweighs these low CTRs. It is still possible to achieve incredible results using the Content Network.

Nevertheless, if should always be everyone’s goal to get as high a CTR as possible in both the Search and Content Networks. Any CTRs of 1% or less will more than likely raise a red flag to Google and you could quite possibly end up getting Google slapped. This is when Google actively penalises you for having a poorly-performing ad by raising your CPC until you either leave or improve your ad’s CTR.

By keeping your ads in the top search positions, your CTRs will invariably remain in the high single to double digits – and Google will reward your hard work by gradually reducing your minimum CPC – which is always a good thing.

Looking for more information on CTRs, then visit www.onlinesuccessmaster.com to find the best advice on how to avoid the Google slap as well.