Question 1

Will PMax steal traffic from my existing Search campaigns?

Accepted Answer

It can. PMax takes priority over standard Search campaigns unless the Search campaign has an exact match keyword identical to the search query. We manage both to prevent cannibalization.

Question 2

Do I need video assets to run Performance Max?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you don't provide a video, Google will auto-generate a usually low-quality video using your images. We strongly recommend providing professional video assets, which we can help produce.

Question 3

Why is my PMax campaign spending money but not converting?

Accepted Answer

This usually happens when the campaign lacks strong 'Audience Signals', relies on poor creative assets, or when the conversion tracking is broken, causing the AI to optimize for the wrong actions.

Question 4

Can I see exactly where my PMax ads are showing?

Accepted Answer

Google provides limited visibility. You can see 'Placement Reports' for the Display network, but it's a black box regarding exact Search terms. We use account-level negatives to exert control.

Question 5

How long does it take for a PMax campaign to learn?

Accepted Answer

PMax requires a significant amount of data. The 'learning phase' typically takes 2 to 4 weeks. We advise against making major changes during this period as it resets the algorithm.

Question 6

Is Performance Max only for Ecommerce?

Accepted Answer

No. While it is incredibly powerful for ecommerce (replacing Smart Shopping), PMax is also highly effective for Lead Generation businesses when optimized with strict offline conversion tracking.

Question 7

How do you control negative keywords in PMax?

Accepted Answer

Unlike Search campaigns, you cannot add negative keywords directly to a PMax campaign. We manage this by applying account-level negative keyword lists to protect your brand terms.

Question 8

What is an 'Asset Group'?

Accepted Answer

An Asset Group is similar to an Ad Group. It contains all the creative elements (text, images, videos) that Google mixes and matches to create ads across all its different networks.

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